Matt Anderson PSM, Director of the Australian War Memorial, says he was delighted to see large crowds attend the Anzac Day 2024 ACT RSL Veterans’ March held at the Memorial’s new Parade Ground.
The Commemorative Address was delivered by Afghanistan veteran Damien Thomlinson, who lost both his legs to a Taliban explosive device in Afghanistan in 2009.
“More than 1,600 people from over 50 contingents registered for the Veterans’ March,” said Mr Anderson. “Having veterans commission the Parade Ground is a meaningful way to open the first of the Memorial’s new spaces. The Parade Ground will be a place to honour current and future veterans every Anzac Day for decades to come.”
An estimated 5,600 people attended to watch the March, bringing the total number of people at Anzac Day ceremonies today at the Australian War Memorial to 37,600. More people will attend the Last Post Ceremony this afternoon, for which ticket allocations have been exhausted.
“Anzac Day is a time for all Australians to come together to commemorate the sacrifices made by Australian service men and women in every theatre of war and on operational service.
“The bravery and courage of Australian soldiers, sailors and airmen and women and the families who support them cannot be understated. Our proud tradition of military service continues 109 years since that pivotal landing at Gallipoli on 25 April 1915.
“I am pleased so many people chose to experience this important commemorative event at the Australian War Memorial.
“Australia and Australians continue to do these men and women proud.”
The Memorial is open for the remainder of Anzac Day.
