*11/11/09 in Sydney

The commemoration of Remembrance Day in Sydney took place at the Cenotaph in Martin Place.  A large crowd gathered in perfect Spring weather  to remember those who have served in the defence of Australia’s freedom and the freedom of others.

The Master of Ceremonies for Remembrance Day 2009 Lieutenant Colonel John Moore presided over the traditional service of remembrance.

The Families and Friends of the First AIF was represented by President, Russell Curley at the service.

The following pictorial account of the service has been compiled from photos taken by FFFAIF Vice President Jim Munro.  FFFAIF Member Mat McLachlan was also present.

The 1st Health Support Battalion Catafalque Party and the NSW Police Band heralded the commencement of the service.

A section of the crowd by the Cenotaph in Martin Place.

 The Ode was read by Mr Don Rowe OAM State President of the Returned and Services League of Australia.

 President FFFAIF laying the wreath on behalf of the members of the FFFAIF.

Representatives from the Association des Anciens Combattants Francais were also present, and at the end of the service for the first time, the French flag was raised and following the laying of tributes, the Australian and French National Anthem were played by the NSW Police Band.

LEST WE FORGET

*****

The Families and Friends of the First AIF applauds the joint Australian–UK decision, announced by The Hon Greg Combet AM MP and the Hon Kevan Jones MP, to conduct a full DNA testing program on the remains of Australian and British soldiers found in mass graves at Pheasant Wood (Fromelles), and for their continuing commitment to identify as many of the fallen as is possible. We also thank the Australian, UK and French governments for affording dignified individual reburials for these soldiers, buried by German soldiers following the Battle of Fromelles on 19/20 July 1916, in the new Fromelles (Pheasant Wood) Military Cemetery presently under construction at Fromelles.