Thursday, March 23, 2017

Shrine of Remembrance

 

We spent the most time this morning at the war memorial.  It was the best and most interesting one I have seen in a long time.  They had a very nice Museum inside with multiple sculptures and pieces of art outside.  There were volunteers around to answer questions as well as a resource shop with things to purchase.  It was situated right across the street from the 3 gardens we visited yesterday and on a huge property of its own.  

Every hour they  have a 3 minute 'service' in the crypt for anyone who wants to attend.  It was very nice even tho it was recorded.  Several school classes were there and they attended.  Well done!

 BTW - all school children in public schools wear uniforms.  Each school has their own style and color.  They looked very British to me, neat and proper!  Brad, our guide, said a study was done and children, parents and administrators like it better.  Plus the kids are better off emotionally and physically.  No competition, especially among the girls and everyone on the same page.

Here is the view from the top of the stairs...

    

Three of the four Victoria Crosses ever given to an Australian are in the museum.   Impressive!

 
    

The Australian army, airforce and navy active duty is 80,000 total. They have 49 ships and 259 aircraft.  They have fought alongside the US in every war the US had been involved in since the early 50s I believe.  They fought in WW1 but not WW11.  I'll have to read more about that later...

We have met two really nice couples on the tour - both men are 30 year Navy officers retired.  Always fun to engage in conversation with fellow military!

At any rate, it was time well spent!

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