LEST WE FORGET THE FALLEN
11-November-2011
On Remembrance Day in 2010, VicRoads staff in Victoria were discouraged from observing one minute’s silence because it would be ‘culturally offensive’. This incident prompted the Coalition to address the widespread concern from the community about the demise of the observation of one minute’s silence on Remembrance Day. The “Recommit” campaign was launched by the Coalition to encourage all Australians to pause from their daily activities at 11am to reflect upon, remember and commemorate the service and sacrifice of all Australians who did not make it back from war.
Federal Member for Macquarie, Louise Markus MP, observed one minute’s silence at the Richmond War Memorial on Remembrance Day last Friday and pledged her support for the Coalition-led “Recommit” campaign.
Mrs Markus reflected on the sacrifice made by our servicemen and women in all wars to protect the Australian way of life.
“Those who have served in war and conflict founded a tradition of courage, tenacity and mateship that has continued through generations of Australians,” said Louise Markus.
“We owe it to the memories and families of the men and women left behind, to always remember them – on Remembrance Day and every day.
“The Coalition is committed to universal observation of Remembrance Day, which is why we have initiated a bi-partisan campaign to encourage more Australians to observe the traditional one minute’s silence on Remembrance Day.
“The Macquarie electorate incorporating the Blue Mountains and the Hawkesbury, has strong ties to all of the wars this country has served in.
“I am confident that the people of Macquarie will join with me in supporting the Coalition’s “Recommit” campaign to ensure each year, Australians who gave the ultimate sacrifice will be remembered and honoured on Remembrance Day,” said Louise Markus.