Anzac Day 2020: NSW schoolkids pen touching letters to Diggers
Kids across NSW have put pen to paper to commemorate Anzac Day by writing letters to Aussie veterans after ceremonies were cancelled due to the coronavirus. See the touching letters and download and print a high resolution poppy poster here.
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Schoolkids across NSW have joined together to commemorate Anzac Day through their own words, writing letters to Aussie veterans after ceremonies were cancelled due to the coronavirus.
The Daily Telegraph launched a campaign two weeks ago encouraging children to let veterans know they were not forgotten — and they answered by putting pen to paper, thanking our soldiers for their service and sacrifice.
In response, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs published some of the letters on its website for as many veterans as possible to read while they self-isolated in the lead up to Saturday.
“If you know an Australian military veteran, please share these letters with them for Anzac Day,” the DVA said.
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Veterans’ Affairs Minister Darren Chester, who shared several of the letters sent to the Telegraph on his social media, said this Anzac Day was a time to pay respects despite not being able to gather in public places.
"It is fantastic to see these young Australians expressing their respect and thanks to our veterans. I am sure they have brought a smile to the faces of many Australian veterans during this challenging time,’’ Mr Chester said.
“This initiative is one great example of ways we can do this and I thank The Daily Telegraph for their support and promotion. Australians are at their best when we come together to support one another and, while we cannot physically gather to commemorate the service and sacrifice of our Defence personnel this year, we can show them our respect.”
Jindera resident Aliera Tucker, 11, whose great grandfather Francis Paxton Martin fought with the Light Horse in World War I, wrote a moving letter to thank our “awesome” veterans.
“Your hard work and determination has led your nation through wars and troubles,’’ she wrote in a card decorated with hearts and poppies. “The medals that you wear on your chest means something special.”
Thornleigh student Victoria Li, 13, said medical staff defending Aussies against the coronavirus bug reminded her of the legacy of Anzac soldiers.
“I would like to reassure you that you will always have a special place in the hearts of the Australian people as well as people all over the world. Nothing can diminish the importance of your dedication nor the spirit of Anzac Day,” she wrote.
CLICK ON THE IMAGE BELOW TO DOWNLOAD AND PRINT YOUR HIGH RESOLUTION POPPY FOR ANZAC DAY
Manly student Katy Greenleaf, 11, also wanted our vets to know she and her classmates were thinking of them, writing:
“We can’t be with you this Anzac Day but we wanted to let you know that we are still grateful for your service and sacrifice.” Hurstville South student Sophie wrote: “Australia will never forget your bravery and courage.’’