Sacrifices of the Great War live on in Australian hearts and minds

There can be no doubt about the respect and reverence with which Australians regard the sacrifices of their ancestors during WWI.

A recent Facebook post on Australia in the Great War enquired whether Australians were aware of the medals their relatives received for service in the First World War. The response was overwhelming - a testament to the abiding influence that conflict has on our contemporary society.  The question drew more than 6,000 reactions, with hundreds of relatives recounting their ancestors’ service and exploits in the war. From the horrors of trench foot and mustard gas in Belgium to the deprivation at Gallipoli, it is evident that many Australians today are acutely aware of the hardships endured by their relatives more than a century ago. They have not forgotten.

Among the many things that are written of the Great War it has been argued that it gave birth to the Australian nation as we know it. This indeed appears to be the case, since WWI continues to occupy a central part not only in our national history and consciousness, but also in that of countless families across Australia who cherish the memory of their ancestors’ involvement in the war. Many stories are shared of five or six brothers embarking for Europe, only for one to return alive. Yet those who lie buried along the Western Front are not forgotten. Their names are still spoken, generations later, by great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. They will not be forgotten.

For most of us, photographs, family history and medals are the only direct link we have with our relatives who served. Yet, despite this, we still have the opportunity to honour them during days of remembrance such as ANZAC Day. The original question on our Facebook post was: “Did any of your ancestors receive the 1914-15 Star for service during the Great War?”. Hundreds of comments related how the Star and other WWI medals have become treasured family heirlooms and that, despite being cherished, they are still worn on ANZAC Day. Many have chosen to have replica sets manufactured, so that other family members may own a part of their shared heritage. At the Military Shop, it is our privilege to help you procure a piece of your family’s and Australia’s history through a replica set of your ancestor’s medals. Lest we forget.