This is part of the most recognisable windows in my city. Every day thousands of people from around the world visit the Australian War Memorial, and this shot is taken inside the Hall of Memory where the tomb of the 'unknown soldier' (representing all Australians who have died in battle) is. The windows were designed by Napier Waller, an Australian who lost his arm while fighting in WW1, and only today have I noticed the Rising Sun motive at the top.
ANZAC Day is a day of reflection and remembrance for Australians. Of the sacrifice, damage and loss that military conflict brings, and how history repeats itself.
The following songs express how a country can unite through the Spirit of ANZAC, the futility of war and yet still honour and recognise the sacrifice of all who have, do and will serve their country. You may not be familiar with the songs, but each presents a powerful message.
You are so many eons ahead of u in the US...seems here as if there is blind worship of those who have sacrifice and obvious blaze-ness to the futility of war. I'll listen tomorrow
@grammyn I was looking at the amazing art in the windows again today - I am always amazed & find new symbolism - the men are each standing on plynths, but are 'held up' by the buildings of their towns! I am glad you listed to the songs Katy - it is hard to explain what ANZAC means to non-Australians! It is a work holiday here & I have just come from a party - AUS, NZ, and Turkish dress requirement & food! The respect between Australians & the Turks is heartwarming. @jgpittenger if you can get time to, do listen Jane - an insight into the Aussie character I think! The Vietnam vets did it very tough though - unlike WW1, the men were conscripted, & yet they returned home without support or respect. There was so much controversy, it really changed the way this country thinks about and acknowledges PTSD.
Oh Lyn, just had a chance to listen...first and last both have me in tears and I'm ready to move to Australia! I was active in the peace movement during the Vietnam war ( while my now beloved husband of 52 years was coming to meet me at the demonstrations in his ROTC uniform) and, naively I guess, hoped as we got smart enough to finally get out that maybe we had gotten to the point that we could stop glorifying war. I think part of why I am presently feeling so helpless about what is happening in the world ( and being worsened by the craziness of our present so called "president ") is I just can't see how I might make a difference
@jgpittenger if you can get time to, do listen Jane - an insight into the Aussie character I think! The Vietnam vets did it very tough though - unlike WW1, the men were conscripted, & yet they returned home without support or respect. There was so much controversy, it really changed the way this country thinks about and acknowledges PTSD.