Only by ensuring the next generation fully appreciates and understands that yesteryear's sacrifices ensured today's freedoms and that today's preparedness safeguards our tomorrow will we guarantee that the blood shed in the past was not for nought.

With the Centenary of the World War I Armistice now behind us, we need to continue to carry the torch so we remember what our brave soldiers have sacrificed for us to live in peace and democracy.

The Riverina and Central West lost too many of our best during various war campaigns across the world. They had their whole lives ahead of them and they paid the ultimate price for the lives we are fortunate enough to live today - something we should never forget.

Anzac Day is Australia's most important day. It is imperative we reflect on those who died on battlefields thousands of kilometres from their homes and loved ones. We should not forget those who were fortunate enough to make it back home, as they were left to carry a heavy burden on their shoulders - both in a physical and a mental capacity.

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We are the lucky country because our servicemen and women paid the ultimate price so we can live in the freedom which is often taken for granted. Our Diggers showed great loyalty and mateship that has become the benchmark for modern Australian defence personnel to follow.

I urge everyone in the Riverina and Central West to participate in an Anzac Day Service - pay attention and listen to the haunting rendition of the Last Post. Take the time to remember and give thanks for the lives and service that others gave. I look forward to meeting with and thanking many current and former servicemen and women from our defence force for their service to our nation.

Everyone in the electorate should have received my annual Anzac Day commemorative booklet.

Please read the stories of our heroes, as well as the winning entries from school students who have put themselves in the boots of a person coming home from the Great War to the Riverina and Central West or indeed nervous family members waiting by the door for their loved ones to return.

Lest We Forget.

Michael McCormack MP