The Army is set to ambush Brisbane City on Thursday to raise vital funds for the RSL (Queensland Branch) as part of the 2010 RSL Poppy Appeal.
In 2010 close to 100 Australian Defence Force personnel will descend upon the city selling poppies in the lead up to the Remembrance Day Service at ANZAC Square.
Funds raised in the 2010 RSL Poppy Appeal go towards the care and well-being of Australian veterans and currently serving defence personnel.
Currently there are 3300 ADF personnel deployed in 13 operations around the world.
Major Michelle Dare and Lieutenant Brent Daire have both recently returned from serving overseas and know the importance of raising funds to support not only veterans, but their fellow mates serving around the world.
Maj Dare recently returned from Afghanistan after a six month deployment.
She said it’s admirable that the Australian Defence Force supports the RSL Poppy Appeal each year.
“These days there are so many soldiers deployed overseas, Remembrance Day is no longer just about old veterans, but about young veterans as well,” Maj Dare said.
“There are many people overseas and who are getting killed serving their country and more and more people are realising the job that they do and it’s more important than ever to remember.”
Lt Daire echoes the same sentiments as his colleague saying the poppy is a symbol of remembrance that people should wear with pride in the lead up to and on November 11.
“I think it’s important to remember the sacrifices that have been made for us to live in a free country,” he said.
“I think Remembrance Day is an important time to think of those who are affected by war and those who are currently serving, but it’s equally important to remember the lost.”
Having returned from Timor, Lt Daire has a long military history in his family.
Remembrance Day Services will be held around the state on Thursday. Those who can’t make their local service are encouraged to partake in one minutes silence at 11am on November 11.
Maj Dare said all members of the public should partake in Remembrance Day Services and purchase a poppy to show their support.
“I think people should purchase a poppy this Remembrance Day and while they are there, go up to a Defence Force Personnel and thank them for what they have done for this country,” she said.
The Brisbane Remembrance Day Service will be held from 10.30am at the Shrine of Remembrance, ANZAC Square, Ann Street, Brisbane.
All members of the public are encouraged to attend the RSL’s Remembrance Day service at ANZAC Square’s Shrine of Remembrance to lay a wreath or poppy in honour of all war heroes.
Poppies are available for purchase at Westpac Banks, Officeworks and local RSL Sub Branches.