Fed: Text of Prime Minister John Howard's Anzac Day Message

AAP General News (Australia)
04-25-2004
Fed: Text of Prime Minister John Howard's Anzac Day Message

EDS: EMBARGOED UNTIL 0001 AEST APRIL 25



CANBERRA, April 25 AAP - Text of Prime Minister John Howard's Anzac Day message:



Our veteran ranks are diminishing with every passing year but the spirit of Anzac continues
to strengthen its hold on the affections of the Australian people.

With courage and tenacity, the young Australians who landed on the shores of Gallipoli
eighty-nine years ago came to symbolise the struggle of a hopeful nation starting to make
its way in the world.

The honour of their deeds and those who fought in later conflicts helped to shape the
destiny of a people who value decency and mateship, who strive for fairness and stand
up for what is right, whatever the cost.

We remember the fallen and express our enduring gratitude to those fortunate enough
to return home. Their bravery has helped to enshrine Anzac Day as an occasion of remembrance
and a time of reflection for all Australians.

Today, our thoughts are also with the men and women of the Australian Defence Forces
currently deployed overseas.

Australia's military personnel are now assisting the cause of peace and freedom in
Iraq, the Solomon Islands, East Timor, just as they have played their part in the War
against Terrorism in Afghanistan.

Special honour is reserved for our soldiers, sailors and air force men and women in
the Gulf who, in the best traditions of the Australian military, continue to bring credit
to our country by helping liberate the oppressed people of Iraq.

Theirs is a proud record of service to our nation that derives its strength from the
devotion of loved ones at home and we thank them especially, for the special sacrifice
they continue to make for us all.

AAP pj/sjb/jlw

KEYWORD: ANZAC HOWARD TEXT (EMBARGOED)

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