Strong Message at Singleton Anzac Day Services
BY DI SNEDDON
War is a horrible thing.
It is the cruellest and most deprived invention of the human race.
But there is something worse – a life, without the freedoms, protections, liberties and choices that come from a nation that is willing to go to war. A life that is ready to allow evil and tyranny to reign supreme.
Life that has no values for how the human existence should prosper – this is worse than war.
These are the words the Australian School of Infantry’s commanding officer and Chief Instructor LTCOL Richard Thapthimthong CSC expressed on Anzac Day.
Record crowds attended both the dawn and main service in Singleton, a return to pre-covid numbers with estimates of 5000 at the dawn and 7000 people at the main service.
“It is on Anzac Day that we stop, and we reflect, and we remember, those men and women who have met the call of their nation and served,” LTCOL Thapthimthong said.
“Domestically or abroad, in war or out, we remember those soldiers. From the ANZACs to the modern day digger. These are the members of our society who we owe a debt of gratitude for keeping us, our way of life and our society safe. And year after year, our promise to them is so, so simple.
“We will not forget – lest we forget.”
Speaking at the main service, veteran Kevin Lomax, emphasised the importance of the RSL, an organisation he only joined in 2022.
RSL NSW’s Purpose is to support veterans and their families by connecting them to services, to improve their wellbeing and assist former Australian and allied veterans, and families, by connecting them to their local community, through camaraderie, mateship, recreation, and commemorative services.
“That’s why we’re all here. We’re supporting each other and connecting through camaraderie. We humbly pay our respects to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country, and we stand together in an eternal bond of brotherhood as we connect in a day of unity,” Mr Lomax said.
“If Anzac Day doesn’t showcase exactly what the RSL’s Purpose and Mission is then nothing will.”