Since 1919, Rochester and district residents have paused at 11am on the 11th day of the 11th month, taking a minute of silent reflection and proudly wearing the traditional poppy in remembrance of those who served and sacrificed for our country in the armed forces.
Rochester RSL Sub-branch president Cameron Lovering said Remembrance Day was recognised by many countries across the world as a time to come together in respect and commemoration.
The symbolism of the poppy stretches back to the battlefields following the end of World War I. Poppies were the first signs of new life that grew on the ruined battlefields.
The red poppy is now recognised internationally as the symbol of remembrance of those who died or have suffered in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.
Mr Lovering said that at this time of year, the Rochester RSL asked Victorians to come together and remember not just those we lost in defence of Australia across various conflicts, but to also support all who served and continue to serve in defence of our country.
RSL Victoria state president Robert Webster said by buying and wearing a poppy, Rochester and district residents were not only paying their respects to veterans past but also paying that respect forward by supporting those currently in service and the ex-service community more broadly.
‘’The modern veteran experience remains filled with sacrifice and the hardships are still, unfortunately, very real,’’ Dr Webster said.
Poppies and appeal tokens will be on sale outside Major’s Supermarket during the week before November 11.
RSL members are aware of the devastating flood which occurred two years ago and that several homes have not yet been reoccupied.
Despite the inundation of the RSL memorial hall, which is sadly still to be restored, members have continued to commemorate those who have served as a community, even gathering for Remembrance Day 2022 only one month after the devastating flood.
The community returned to some semblance of normality in 2023 and the appeal was successful, raising critically needed funds for local flood-impacted veterans. The RSL is very appreciative of that support.
Mr Lovering thanked the Rochester community for its continued support.
A service will start at 10.45am on November 11, pausing for a minute’s silence at 11am at the Rochester RSL war memorial gardens.