This week we reflect on our national commemoration of Remembrance with our own Service and lessons, on why we remember all those that have fought and suffered in past conflicts at this time.
It was important to us this year to look closely at all aspects of remembering those who have served their Country in times of war. Whether they be military, civilian or emergency services. To build a lesson on the act of Remembrance our PreCAL boys in Year 10 followed a project on individual veterans, either related to them, or of interest to them personally from the start of Term 3. From this class there were examples of veterans from World War 1 / World War 2 / Vietnam / Korea / Iraq and Afghanistan.
This deep study brought some harrowing accounts of service men and women, and it was very inspiring and touching to hear the boys talk about their Grandparents accounts as well.
From Monday of this week, each oratory class looked at all these case studies and asked each other questions on what Remembrance meant to each of them. It has certainly been an emotive week.
Three boys were selected to tell their stories at our Remembrance Service, which was live streamed to the whole school on Thursday 11 Nov; James Aveissian-Brown, Mark Sarandakis and Harry Lee, who spoke with pride and passion about his Grandfather, Ronald Trainor who served in the RAAF.
The Service was timed to include the minute silence held at 1100, proceeded by the excellent performance of the Last Post by Tyler Skarajew, with echo trumpets outside the chapel, Jordan Brooks and Joel Knight. It was a poignant Service, the procession of flags and the laying of wreaths, readings and prayers added to this peaceful and reflective time for us to remember all those that have sacrificed their lives in conflict.
In the words of our Vice-Captain, Mitchell Wain we also gave a strong message for future generations; “Today we pray and dedicate ourselves to the cause of justice, freedom and peace, and for the wisdom and strength to build a better world”.
Mr Matt Little
Director of Performing Arts Events & Ensembles / Instrumental Program
