The Anzacs Go Home – Then and Now

Of the Anzacs who volunteered to go to the War with the hope of seeing the world, some who survived, did finally see some the world, when the war finished. However, there were many causalities, such as at Fromelles and Pozieres, that came home as broken men, both physically and mentally. Many Anzacs returned to Australia to no job prospects or support. The saddest experience was the Aboriginal soldiers, who were considered as equals in the war, but when they returned they were treated as second class citizens.

The soldiers who survived the horrible conditions also brought home the deadly Spanish flu pandemic of 1918 to 1919, the deadliest in modern times. It infected about 500 million people worldwide about one-third of the population of the world at the time – and killed an estimated 20 million to 50 million victims.

We have learnt a lot from the war of what not to do. Better health measures so soldiers do not suffer from preventable diseases, that also include decay and gum disease. The support structures such as the Returned Servicemen League, and a dedicated Veteran Affairs government department and many other services, including mental health, are there to help those who are willing to give their lives for their country. The Spirit of Anzac Day (http://www.seymourdental.com.au/2017/04/24/spirit-of- anzacs/) is a day when we are continually reminded of the price of peace and freedom. We know from history, how easy it is to lose.

The Anzacs then fought in WWII, and then in many other conflicts that were not our wars directly. Australian troops are now involved in humanitarian and peace keeping roles all over the world. They have a great reputation in trying to do what’s best for the locals often at danger to themselves. This is evident in Afghanistan, where the Australian forces helped the people build schools, roads, hospitals and taught them many skills, even though they were in a dangerous war zone. They have now left but their legacy lives on, even though the country is falling apart again.

Lest We Forget.

Next week: Item Number – 414 Pulpotomy