Thousands attend Anzac Day Dawn Service and Veterans’ March

More than 20,000 visitors gathered this morning at the commemorative heart of the nation – the Australian War Memorial – for the Anzac Day Dawn Service and RSL (ACT Branch) Veterans’ March.

Memorial Director Mr Matt Anderson said that the number of people attending this morning’s commemorative service was a powerful reminder of the continued dedication of the Australian people to the traditions of Anzac Day.

“It was uplifting to see so many people attending the ceremony after two years of restricted numbers. Anzac Day gives Australians the opportunity to reflect on the sacrifice made by so many, to honour their service and give thanks for their courage in great adversity.

“The attendance at this year’s Dawn Service shows the enduring connection so many people have to Anzac Day and what it represents for all Australians.

“On Anzac Day we always pause to commemorate the landings on Gallipoli in 1915, but the day has become so much more. It is the day we remember the commitment and sacrifice of all our service personnel who have served in conflicts and on operational service, and those who continue to serve today,” Mr Anderson said.

The Dawn Service Commemorative Address was delivered by Michael (Mike) Ruffin OAM. Mike has dedicated his life to the service of others, having spent 26 years in the Australian Army with active service in Malaya, Borneo and Vietnam.

“We owe an enormous debt to all Australians who, like Mike, have served our nation, and to those who have given their lives in defence of Australia.”

“On Anzac Day, we also pause to acknowledge that, like so many other veterans, Mike’s service didn’t end when he hung up his uniform. He has made a lifelong commitment to ensuring those who have served our nation in war, are supported by our nation in peace,” Mr Anderson said.

Mike Ruffin said he was extremely honoured to be invited to deliver the Commemorative Address at this year’s Anzac Day ceremony.

“It is a privilege to represent those who have served and are currently serving in the Australian Defence Force,” Mr Ruffin said.

For the ninth year, pre-dawn proceedings featured a series of readings by Australian servicemen and servicewomen. The Dawn Service Order of Service can be found here: https://www.awm.gov.au/sites/default/files/AnzacDay-2022-04-screen_0.pdf