Lest we forget...

Yesterday was the 95th anniversary of the battle of Gallipoli, in which Australian and New Zealand soldiers were landed on the Gallipoli peninsula.

This battle is commemorated by Australians and New Zealanders throughout the world - often starting with dawn services to remember the fallen of the many conflicts both countries have participated in.

I attended the dawn service at Bondi RSL to pay my respects. Poignantly enough, the service was held in the pouring rain and as the grey light of day crept in from the east, we were hosted by the RSL, who put on a few beers and a hot breakfast, where we were invited to mix with some of the old 'diggers' and listen to a few of their tales. Camera(s) in hand, I photographed my way through some unpleasant weather and even more unpleasant lighting conditions.


When I returned to my desk later in the morning to dry off and process the images, I heard that an RNZAF helicopter had crash on its way to participate in the Wellington ANZAC Day ceremony, with the loss of three lives. Having spent some time working with 3 Squadron in a previous life, I was devastated to hear this - it's unfortunate enough that servicemen and women lose their lives when on active duty or on operations, but during peace time, and on their way to pay tribute to fallen soldiers, seamen and airmen?

My thoughts go out to the families and friends and especially the team at 3 Squadron who lost three of their comrades.

Lest we forget.