One minute silence marks 106th anniversary of WWI in Alice Springs on Remembrance Day

A minute silence has marked the 106th anniversary of the ‘war to end all wars’ with a crowd gathering in the Red Centre to remember those who fell. See the pictures.

Remembrance Day, Anzac Hill, Alice Springs, November 2024. Picture: Gera Kazakov

A gloomy morning provided the backdrop for dozens of attendees at a memorial for the “war to end all wars” which honoured the thousands of Australians who have made the ultimate sacrifice worldwide.

As the clock struck 11am in Alice Springs on Monday, November 11, those gathered on Anzac Hill paused in a minute of silence for Remembrance Day, honouring those who served for Australia – some of whom did not return home.

The memorial was put on by the Alice Springs RSL sub-branch, with Australia’s Norforce Centre Squadron commanding officer Jamie Smith addressing the attendees.

Australia's Norforce Centre Squadron officer in command Jamie Smith. Picture: Gera Kazakov

“November 11th marks the anniversary of the end of the First World War, the war to end all wars,” he said.

“It was the day that marked the end of a brutal and devastating conflict that claimed the lives of millions of people from all around the world.”

More than 60,000 Australians lost their life in WWI, with more wounded – both physically and mentally.

The crowd pays respects at the Remembrance Day memorial on Anzac Hill. Picture: Gera Kazakov

“Survivors returned home to a country both grateful for their service and traumatised by the war’s enormous cost,” Alice Springs RSL vice president Charles “Chuck” Ritenour said.

Military members from Australia and the United States – both past members and those currently serving – were among the roughly 40 attendees at the memorial, which also included schoolchildren and local politicians.

Australia's Norforce Centre Squadron pays respects. Picture: Gera Kazakov

Originally published as One minute silence marks 106th anniversary of WWI in Alice Springs on Remembrance Day