The Tory Templar | Issue 9

On ANZAC Day

It has been claimed that the words “lest we forget” are misused. Instead we should say “lest we remember”. That’s what it’s about they say, the memorials and the two minutes’ silence, because there is no better way of forgetting something than by commemorating it, they say. They lie.

We celebrate Anzac Day to remember the soldiers that risked their lives for this country, for its ideals and for our freedom. It is a day where all enlisted men and women are remembered and honoured for their services to and sacrifices for the country. It is important not to forget the sacrifices made, hence those words: Lest we forget.

It is the Templar’s firm belief that we have something in this country to be celebrated, something to be cherished: We have democracy. It didn’t come along easy and it hasn’t been kept alive through spirit alone. Our fathers and grandfathers gave their lives to ensure that our lifestyles remained intact. By celebrating Anzac Day we honour their sacrifices and remember what we are lucky to have because they fought for it.

Nowadays Anzac Day has taken on greater meaning. We now acknowledge not only those who fought in the two great wars but those who serve in the armed forces this very day. In places like East Timor, Afghanistan, and Iraq our young men and women, Kiwis like you and me, are bringing the gift of democracy to the world. The Templar almost never has his icy exterior thawed, but tears form when I think of the downtrodden who are being lifted up with the help of those young Kiwis.

Anzac Day then is a time for us to come together as one nation, and acknowledge with pride the difference that New Zealand is making around the world. It is a time for us to give thanks to our servicemen and women for their work in bringing the dream of democracy to the world. When we hear that trumpet sound, and we see those poppies, we will remember them. It fosters that national pride that we so love.

The Templar encourages everyone to show their support for our armed forces. Get out there and recall those who are parted from their families so that yours can sleep safely. Remember that as you tell your child bedtime stories, somewhere out there a fellow Kiwi calls “once more into the breach dear friends, once more.” And when you do, do so with pride.

—The Tory Templar
This article first appeared in Issue 9, 2012.
Posted 4:56pm Sunday 29th April 2012 by The Tory Templar.