On the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month we fall silent to acknowledge Defence Force service from the Western Front to those still serving today.
Honouring our service personnel each Remembrance Day has always been a part of my life and always will be. As we paused to remember this year, we were stood in another treatment room. Being in the treatment room, my husband in his uniform, as he came from and was returning to work, made this Remembrance Day even more poignant for me.
This month we are at 22 confirmed appointments relating to my husband’s service-related injuries. More appointments are still yet to be confirmed. One year ago, we were going through these same motions with a myriad of appointments as we sought a confirmed diagnosis.
So, as I paused to remember this morning, I also reflected on my own personal journey as a Defence Partner, my husband’s service, sacrifices and injuries, the vital role that Partners play in supporting our current and former serving ADF members, as well the wellbeing of our partners and partner carers who support our Veterans.
To those who made the ultimate sacrifice, those who returned albeit changed, and those brave service men and women who have or continue to serve, we remember and thank you for your service and sacrifice.
And knowing myself that service and sacrifice isn’t limited to those who wear the uniform, I thank all Defence and Veteran Partners, children and the families who have given so much and been affected by Defence service, too.
Lest We Forget.