For those who gave their all

Tasmanians urged to honour those who ‘gave everything’

TODAY we pause to remember those who served and sacrificed for our freedom —101 years after the guns fell silent on the Western Front, ending World War I.

Martin Herrin, Herman Westerhof, Mike Gallagher and Kevan Blom will be among those at the memorial at South Arm this Remembrance Day to pay their respects to those who served their nation.

TODAY Tasmania pauses to remember those men and women who have served and sacrificed for our freedom.

At 11am on November 11, 1918, the guns fell silent on the Western Front, ending four years of devastating warfare.

World War I claimed more than 16 million lives from around the globe, including over 60,200 Australians.

Army reservist of 31 years Mike Gallagher, who served in Iraq and Afghanistan during 2006, will be among Tasmanians to mark Remembrance Day at a service at South Arm today.

Remembrance Day is about paying tribute to fallen veterans while also paying respects to returned veterans and those still serving, Mr Gallagher said.

“For all of us, regardless if you’ve served, it’s a time to remember those that not only gave lives but gave everything to keep Australia free as a democracy,” he said.

Mr Gallagher said the South Arm RSL will mark the day with a 10.30am service followed by a special service to mark the lives of two passed RSL members and veterans, Maurice Stevens and Morris Larkins.

“Both men made a significant impact and never lost the zest of looking for ways to help out,” he said.

The RSL is calling on Australians to “remember to remember” to pause for one minute at 11am today and reflect on the service and sacrifice of current and former servicemen and women, as well as the many families who stand behind them.

Veterans’ Affairs Minister Guy Barnett encouraged Tasmanians to attend a Remembrance Day service.

“Tasmania has a rich military history with over 11,000 war veterans and exservice personnel.

“More than 15,000 Tasmanian men enlisted to serve their nation in World War I.

“Of these, 3000 lost their lives and many more suffered physical and psychological injuries,” he said.

“Wreath laying ceremonies are being held on Remembrance Day around Tasmania.

“All Tasmanians are encouraged to attend, where a poppy in remembrance or take a moment’s silence at 11am to reflect and remember.”

For a full list of Tasmanian Remembrance Day services visit www.rsltas.org.au /remembrance-day-2019/