To the men and women of the Australian Defence Force:
Yesterday, I had the incredible privilege of standing with a group of Korean War veterans on the battlefield of Kapyong, a place made sacred by the courage and sacrifice of Australian personnel.
Today, Australians will commemorate our most solemn national event at Villers-Bretonneux and Bullecourt in France, on the Kokoda Track, at Sandakan and Hellfire Pass, and here in Korea.
It is a reminder that the tide of history has taken Australians to war on three continents over more than a century.
Wherever they went, stories of incredible mateship and courage soon followed, often purchased at the very highest price.
On this solemn day, I honour the memory of every Australian who has made the supreme sacrifice in the cause of freedom.
I express our country’s solidarity with every family who mourns the loss of a loved one and with every veteran who bears the scars of war in mind or body.
And I offer the profound thanks of a grateful nation to our defence personnel who stand on duty today, at home and overseas.
You ensure that the ANZAC story remains a living tradition wherever Australians wear the uniform - we are a safer, stronger country because of what you do.
In these challenging days, I know that your highest traditions of honour, service and professionalism will ensure the ADF remains a fighting force of which every Australian can be proud.
The Honourable Julia Gillard
Prime Minister of Australia
Seoul, Republic of Korea
Anzac Day, 2011
*This message was sent to all Australian Defence Force personnel on global and regional operations and to domestic serving personnel on 25 April 2011.
Issued by Ministerial and Executive Coordination and Communication,
Department of Defence,
Canberra, ACT
Phone: 02 6127 1999 Fax: 02 6265 6946
