Friday, 25 April 2008

ANZAC 2008, Kuwait

Shamefully spying the last post on my blog. Especially one of any substance. Many months went by...

Well things have been shall we say "fluid".

So: in the spirit of stability and history and all good things, a new year and a new continuation.


ANZAC day. What a wonderful tradition and growing too! Every year more people seem to be part of the commemorations. Having done ANZAC last year in Douala some of my friends have mailed me that they are repeating the tradition. The comments from veterans here is that the turnout was much bigger than last year.

As for me I am in Kuwait. (yes possibly a surprise to some) Since February now. I have been fortunate to run into the ANZAC community such as it is, there is strong Australian representation here with Australian contingents supporting the Iraq Situation. Many are stationed here in Kuwait.

Dawn parade was the moving event it often is. The location was the Hilton Hotel beach. At this time of day totally deserted, but with the sun coming up over the Gulf of Arabia.




Having said that, deserted that is except for the fabulous turnout for the dawn service. Actually quite amazing considering the hour. Yes it kicked off at 0445H. that means up before 4am to get there. Well done youse all.



Wreaths were laid by representatives of many nations, and the Turkish ambassador quoted the wonderful tribute for the fallen by Kemal Ataturk, which has done so much to forge and annually reinforce the bonds we have between these nations. No more needs be said after that.

Some fabulous bugler blew the last post then after a silence, Reveille.

Advance Australia was sung, and then God Defend/Aotearoa. Voices cold from the early wake-up call and lack of tea.











A chance to pose in the dawn light before the heat strikes the desert today.














The morning was aptly rounded out with breakfast on the beach hosted by the Australian Ambassador. Many thanks and a real treat. As i left to continue my day (and write this), about 7am, the temperature was climbing into 30. Going to be a scorcher today.

For all ANZACS and other Friends around the world. I hope your day is a safe one as you spare a thought for those who gave their lives for the freedom we enjoy.
Lest We Forget,
At the going down of the sun, and in the morning.
We Will Remember Them.
We Will Remember Them.