“The sacrifices of our serving men and women have today forged a safe and prosperous nation.”
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Those were the words of Squadron Leader Conan Brett who spoke at Mudgee’s Robertson Park on Wednesday.
Conan has deployed to the Middle East region six times and has flown over 100 combat air lift missions into Iraq and Afghanistan.
During his RAAF career, he’s flown almost 4,000 hours in a variety of aircrafts including the VT-9 Hawk, F-111 and the C-130.
Despite travelling to over 50 countries in his career, the avid golf and cricket fan still considers Mudgee the place he’d rather be.
He highlighted the list of speakers on Wednesday and had some meaningful words for all in attendance.
“Thankfully the affects of war for many young Australians are only understood through story rather than experience,” he said.
“This was the hope of every soldier sailor and airman, that those that they love, will never know the horrors of battle.
“By remembering their bravery, we show respect for them. By gathering here and across the nation today, we pay homage to their sacrifice and celebrate the birth of a national identity that has now endured of over 100 years – a national identity that is built on courage.
“I urge all of you to reflect and use the courage and resilience of those before us. To do our best, to lead by example, and to be worthy of the greatest compliment – to be called a mate.”
Also at the ceremony was Father Owen Gibbon, Reverend Jono Williams and Reverend Greg Smith – all of whom took the time to speak.
These men, and many other individuals, took part in the march that started at Club Mudgee and found its way to Robertson Park via Market Street.
Hundreds of people marched to the ceremony, including members from Mid-Western schools and police officers.
Geoff Robinson hosted proceedings at reminded everyone before they left that the 100th anniversary of Remembrance Day will be celebrated at Robertson Park on November 11.