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On the 11th of November at 11am, Australia and many other countries observe Remembrance Day, a significant occasion that pays tribute to the soldiers who gave their lives in the line of duty.
Deeply rooted in our history, Remembrance Day holds a special place in the hearts of many Australians, for it is a day to remember all those who have lost their lives or endured suffering for Australia's cause in all wars and armed conflicts.
To fully understand its significance, join us as we explore its origins, its meaning, how we observe it and understand how it's different from Anzac Day.
Remembrance Day, observed on 11th November, serves as a solemn and reflective occasion to remember and honour the sacrifices of Australian soldiers who have given their lives in service to their country.
Why was 11th November chosen as Remembrance Day?
Remembrance Day is observed on 11th November each year to mark the anniversary of armistice signed between the Allies and Germany, ending World War I. This historic event took place at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. The armistice effectively halted the hostilities and laid the groundwork for the peace negotiations that would ultimately end the Great War.
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Significance of 11 November at 11am.
The choice of 11 November at 11am holds profound significance for the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month was the exact moment when the guns fell silent on the Western Front, signifying the end of World War I. This moment marked a turning point in history and a chance for the world to reflect on the enormous loss of life and the devastating consequences of war.
When did 11 November become Remembrance Day?
Remembrance Day, as we know it today, originated in the United Kingdom, first observed in 1919, a year after the signing of the armistice. King George V's call for a two-minute silence to honour fallen soldiers quickly spread throughout the British Empire, including Australia.
In Australia, Remembrance Day first began as Armistice Day, dedicated to the memory of World War I's fallen. However, the pivotal moment in the history of Remembrance Day came on 11th November 1993, its 75th anniversary. On this day, the remains of an unknown Australian soldier, exhumed from a First World War military cemetery in France, were ceremonially entombed in the Australian War Memorial in Canberra. Simultaneous ceremonies took place across the nation, culminating at the moment of burial at 11am. These events coincided with the traditional two-minute silence, re-establishing Remembrance Day as a significant day of commemoration and broadening its focus to honour all Australians who had died in wars and conflicts.
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A field of poppies at the Legacy memorial.
How is Remembrance Day observed?
Remembrance Day is observed in a variety of ways across Australia, all of which focus on honouring the memory of those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
- Wreath-laying ceremonies: Communities, schools and organisations host wreath-laying ceremonies at local war memorials, schools and parks. These ceremonies typically involve the laying of wreaths by dignitaries, veterans and representatives of various groups, such as schools and community organisations.
- Two-minute silence: The centrepiece of Remembrance Day is the two-minute silence observed at 11am. People across the nation pause in their daily activities to pay their respects and reflect on the significance of the day. This period of silence allows for collective remembrance and contemplation.
- Red poppies: The red poppy has become a symbol of Remembrance Day and many Australians wear poppy pins as a mark of respect and solidarity with the fallen. This tradition was inspired by the famous war poem, "In Flanders Fields," written by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae during World War I. You can read "In Flanders Fields" below this article.
- School activities: Schools across Australia play a significant role in educating the younger generation about the importance of Remembrance Day. Students often participate in activities such as creating artworks, writing essays and attending special assemblies to learn about the sacrifices of war and the importance of remembrance.
- Media coverage: Television and radio stations broadcast Remembrance Day events and newspapers, magazines and social media often run special features to highlight the significance of the day.
Remembrance Day remains ‘symbolic of our history and of our values’: Gary Hardgrave
Remembrance Day vs Anzac Day
While both Remembrance Day and Anzac Day hold a special place in Australian history and culture, they serve slightly different purposes and have distinct origins.
| Remembrance Day | ANZAC Day | |
| Origin | Originated after WWI in the UK, first observed in 1919 | Commemorates the ANZACs (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps) and their sacrifices in WWI |
| Scope | Honours all Australian soldiers who died in wars and conflicts | Primarily focuses on the ANZACs and has expanded to include all military personnel who served and died in war |
| Date and time | 11th November at 11am | 25th April, the anniversary of the Gallipoli landing in WWI |
| Traditions | Two-minute silence at 11am, red poppies, wreath-laying, ceremonies at memorials | Dawn services, marches and other commemorations |
| Significance | Commemorates the end of WWI and all Australian military deaths | Honours the spirit and sacrifice of the ANZACs in WWI and all conflicts |
| Australian Government Recognition | Officially declared Remembrance Day in 1931 | Officially recognised in 1916 and is a national holiday in Australia |
Remembrance Day, observed on 11th November, serves as a solemn and reflective occasion to remember and honour the sacrifices of Australian soldiers who have given their lives in service to their country. This day, with its historical significance, reminds us of the profound impact of war on our nation and the world. While Remembrance Day shares similarities with Anzac Day, they have distinct origins and focus on different aspects of Australia's military history.
As we observe Remembrance Day, it's essential to pay our respects to those who have lost loved ones in war and to ensure that the memory of these brave individuals lives on, as we strive for a future of peace and unity.
In Flanders Fields by John McCrae
In Flanders' fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place: and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders' fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe;
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high,
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders' Fields.
Plant a poppy in the virtual Remembrance Garden to help support veterans and their families. DONATE to the POPPY APPEAL here.
