40 years of remembrance at Springvale
For the 40th year since its inception, a crowd gathered at the Springvale War Cemetery for the RSL Victoria State Annual Remembrance Service.
The first service was held in 1985 as an initiative of the Springvale RSL Sub-Branch.
As part of the annual tradition, students from St Margaret’s Grammar Berwick, Haileybury College and Cranbourne East Secondary College participated in the solemn service and delivered several readings, including The Poppy Legend and In Flanders Fields.
Chaplain John Raike delivered the Remembrance Prayer, Commemoration to the Fallen, and The Lord’s Prayer.
Over a dozen wreaths were laid by several dignitaries, including politicians, senior Australian Defence Force members and from various ex-service organisations.
RSL Victoria was represented by the State Senior Vice President, Des Callaghan OAM BJ JP, who address those gathered.
“When we stand as one in silent tribute, not only to keep the vow made long ago, we stand in grateful remembrance of those who sacrificed their lives for us,” he said.
Guest speaker, Dr Lisa Cooper, a historian and writer, shared her deep knowledge and understanding of Australian war cemeteries.
Dr Cooper brought the diverse stories behind each grave to life, sharing accounts thought-provoking accounts of the sacrifices made by individuals and their families.
“Headstone inscriptions tell us more about who these people were and who was left to grieve their passing: The One and Only Son; A Devoted Daughter and Loving Sister; My Daddy at Rest.”
She paid tribute to the people who came from all walks of life, to ultimately give their life for our freedom.
“They are Australians going back several generations, and new Australians. Like an Irishman, who served with the British Forces during the First World War, migrated to Australia, married and started a family. He enlisted in the Australian Army in the Second World War but died from illness in July 1942. He is buried here at Springvale War Cemetery.”
“There are Boer War veterans, who served again in both the First and Second World Wars, only to die during their war service. They are buried here at Springvale War Cemetery. There are those who served Allied nations. Members of the British and Dutch Navy and Army are buried here at Springvale War Cemetery.”
Her parting words served as a poignant reminder to remember.
“Whether you’re at home or travelling this vast nation, should there be a war cemetery nearby, please visit.”
