ANZAC Day 2021
Commemorating our ANZACs
ANZAC Day 2021 is fast approaching, and whilst we cannot be certain as to what this may look like in the current circumstances, now is the time to start doing your research and preparing for this day.
As ANZAC Day rolls around each year, we commonly find ourselves asking, “What can Scouts do, and not do, at commemoration activities?” Here are some common questions that have been collated for you to consider in preparation.
Firstly, Scouting attendance and participation at commemorative activities must be guided by your state or local Returned Services League (RSL). Many community members participated in the Driveway at Dawn commemorations last year, but at the time of writing, we do not know if this will occur as a nationwide movement once again in 2021.
What we do know is that each local RSL are preparing their plans for their commemoration activities, be that Dawn Services, Marches, Gunfire Breakfasts, or laying of the wreaths, so if you are uncertain about what to do, check with your Scout Group and check with your local RSL.
Some common myths:
- Scouts salute during the playing of the Last Post – no they don’t. Usually this is only serving military personnel.
- Scouts salute during the National Anthem – no they don’t but we do usually join in with others singing the anthem. They do salute the Flag at any raising and may at a closing salute the flag before closing. Usually this is only serving military personnel and they give a Vice Regal salute (a shortened version of the National Anthem).
- Scouts lower flags (usually on staves) at an ANZAC ceremony. The Australian National Flag should not be lowered as a form of salute, even when it is appropriate for other flags or ensigns being carried in a procession to be lowered as a form of salute.
- Scouts wear medals of families members on the left side of the Scout Uniform – no they don’t. Unless they are their own military earned medals Scouts may wear miniature versions on the right hand side of the uniform in line with the top of the left pocket.
What is important is this is about commemoration and rituals are reserved for those currently serving military personnel. For further guidance, refer to this advice by the Australian Government Department of Defence.
