2 weeks Ago By Alex Mitchell
Families shouldn't be afraid to bring their children in pyjamas and crying babies to Anzac ceremonies to mark the sacrifice made by Australia's fallen soldiers, one veteran's widow says. Login or signup to continue reading Hundreds of people braced rain and lined Sydney's Martin Place for a pre-dawn service in the city, gathering around The Cenotaph to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice, 110 years on from the landing at Gallipoli during World War I. Among the crowd was Gwen Cherne and her children Emily and Lachlan, who know first-hand what those who have fought for the nation have sacrificed.
Ms Cherne lost her husband Peter to suicide in 2017 after a distinguished, near-20-year stint in the military. Now serving as Veteran Family Advocate Commissioner, she focuses on supporting the loved ones of those who have served. "I have three surviving children, and that was what started me on this journey to support veterans and families," she said.
"I know the sacrifice and how much (Anzac Day) means, not only to the serving men and women, but also to the families who pick up pieces, who bear the burdens, who hold the home front and make sure our society doesn't crack." Ms Cherne said she found the large crowd in the Sydney city centre inspiring. "I say this to families all the time, just bring your crying babies, bring your kids in pyjamas because veterans and families just want to know that you see them, that you support them," she said.
Former Air Force warrant officer and Aboriginal elder Harry Allie welcomed attendees to Gadigal country and touched on Indigenous Australians' history within the defence force. Despite being exempt from service at World War I around 1000 Indigenous Australians are estimated to have enlisted. "My uncle on my father's side, served in World War I and II .
.. we have a strong connection to the military, as well as to Country," he told AAP.
"The mateship has always been a great thing and an equality thing for me, particularly from an Aboriginal perspective ...
I'm proud to have served for over 23 years." Major General Matt Burr encouraged new Australians and first-time dawn service attendees to seek out veterans and share in their stories. "All Australians own and are part of the same legacy .
.. the legacy of the first Anzacs who answered that call of duty, leaving behind the comforts of home and the warmth of loved ones to serve Australia," he said.
More than 8000 serving Australian Defence Force members and veterans marched from Martin Place to the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park. Australian Associated Press Daily Today's top stories curated by our news team. Also includes evening update.
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