Remembrance Day on 11th November is a time of reflection and pause. It’s a day for all of us to remember those who have fought and died for Australia’s cause in all wars and armed conflicts.

Lest we forget

As Australians, we observe this day because at 11am on 11 November 1918, the guns of the Western Front fell silent after more than four years of continuous warfare. So began an annual tribute to the men and women of war. It is a time to pay our respects, commemorate our losses and celebrate our freedom.

At the Australian War Memorial, the National Ceremony is held each 11 November to remember those who gave their service and made the ultimate sacrifice.

Time for reflection and gratitude

Being in Canberra for this day of tribute is a moving and reverent experience, attended by thousands of official guests and visitors.

Commencing at 10.30am, the ceremony will include a formal wreath laying, Australia’s Federation Guard (a tri-service ceremonial unit of the Australian Defence Force) and a poignant period of silence. The Band of the Royal Military College, Duntroon will also be on parade.

This year, the inspirational Australian War Memorial will be recognising its 75th anniversary, having been officially opened 11 November 1941.

Who will you remember?

How can we possibly comprehend the sheer devastation encountered during the battles of the First World War? That conflict brought about the mobilisation of over 70 million people and left between 9 and 13 million dead, perhaps as many as one-third of them with no known grave. Of the deceased, about 60,000 were Australian. The Great War, and the many armed conflicts since then, have become etched into our country’s story. The impact on mates, loved ones and communities has stayed with us for decades.

That is why Remembrance Day is a time to think of those close to us – even if separated by generations – who played a role. At the Memorial, you can search more than 100,000 names on the Roll of Honour, and pay tribute with a poppy.

Details for the day

Tickets for the 2016 Remembrance Day National Ceremony are still available, and can be booked via the online booking website Trybooking. Ticket bookings are now open to the general public via trybooking.com/209515.

Please note that seating is limited, so many people stand on the lawns of the Memorial or along the fence line of the ceremony.. Once booked, tickets will be emailed via TryBooking and must be presented on the day. For those without internet access, once ticketing is open you can call (02) 6243 4327 to book your ticket.

The Remembrance Day National Ceremony is attended by many people, so allow plenty of time to get there. It is suggested that you arrive by 9.45am. Guests with pre-arranged seating are required to be seated by 10am.

Road closures will be in effect from approximately 8am until 1pm, which will limit public access to parking at the Memorial. Roads affected are as followed:

• Traffic from Limestone Avenue diverts onto Treloar Crescent
• Traffic from Fairbairn Avenue diverts onto Treloar Crescent
• Anzac Parade closed from Blamey Crescent and Currong Street intersection

The many exhibits and displays at the Australian War Memorial will be closed during the ceremony, but will re-open after the ceremony. Take the time to visit and learn more about the sacrifice of so many. At 4.55pm, the Last Post will commemorate the service of the Unknown Australian Soldier.