Its ANZAC day. We awoke at 4:30am to go to a dawn service by one of our local beaches. Both my Grandad and Greg’s Grandad served in WW2. They were both very young and I can’t imagine what it would of been like. During the service they spoke about how many soldiers come back from war zones and they have ongoing mental health issues, alcoholism and PTSD. They told stories of wives that had supported their partners for many years through many tough times. It was an quite emotional sombre service. I have never liked the idea of war and conflict but I know it is a part of live on this earth currently. I am so grateful we live in a safe country and I am grateful for those that have served for our country. I would have liked to see more representation of women at the service. Not one woman spoke. In the armed forces today in Australia there are 15% women. There are also many aboriginal soldiers that went to war for Australia who don’t get recognised at services like this. Our country needs to keep doing better when it comes to respecting and honouring our indigenous people and our women who have and are serving.
Hamish I hope you were hanging out up there with your great grandads today.