Part of the Aussie spirit

I am honoured to be chosen as an Castle Hill RSL Anzac Day Youth Ambassador for 2018.

Anzac Day is a time when we remember the soldiers who fought at war to protect our country and us. They should be remembered because they fought for our country and our way of life.

They looked after their mates and put their own lives at risk.

Their actions have made us who we are today.

The spirit of the Anzacs has become part of the Australian spirit.

Like many other Australian families, my family has a strong association with the Defence Forces.

My dad has been a pilot in the Air Force for over 20 years and he has flown C-130 Hercules all over the world, including into Iraq and Afghanistan.

My grandfather was in the SAS and rescued lots of people. He served in the SAS for 20 years and went on lots of missions all over the world.

My great-grandfather on my mum’s side fought in World War II, Papua New Guinea and my great-grandfather on my dad’s side fought in World War II in France. My great great great uncle fought in World War I on the Western Front.

He spent three years in bunkers in France fighting for the Allies, defending against Germany.

And my brother was the Castle Hill RSL Anzac Day Youth Ambassador in 2012!

Australia, as a nation, was only 13-years-old when World War I started in 1914. The first major campaign for Australia and New Zealand was at Gallipoli on April 25, 1915. Over 8000 Australian soldiers were killed at Gallipoli. Though they didn’t win the battle, the Anzacs showed incredible bravery, courage and mate-ship.

They earned the respect, not only from their Allies, but also from the Turkish soldiers who were their enemy.

The first Anzac Day was commemorated on April 25 1916. Ceremonies took place all over the world to remember the soldiers who fought so bravely and lost their lives.

Now Anzac Day is a day for all Australians to remember all people who have lost their lives while serving our country at war.

It is important for children to be involved in these ceremonies to continue the traditions, remember the fallen soldiers and celebrate the spirit of the Anzacs.

I would like all the kids in our community to understand the importance of Anzac Day, to remember that we still have brave me and women protecting us and to help the spirit of the Anzacs live on through the next generation.

I am so proud to be chosen as a Castle Hill RSL Anzac Day Youth Ambassador.

I would like all the kids in our community to understand the importance of Anzac Day.