ANZAC day is political. If it was just about respecting the fallen, there wouldnt be the whole 'the day that defined a nation crap'.
I would argue strongly that it isn't political. Not sure how the Dawn Service is anything other than respecting and commemorating our fallen and by obvious extension our history? The two are linked.
The actions of those before us actually do define us, the good and the bad. It's called history. Our history defines us as a nation.
Have you ever been to a Dawn Service Dooks?
I would encourage everyone to do it at least once because it really teaches you lot. One of today's speakers gave the most moving speeches I've heard at the service. For me it explained perfectly why we as nation respect/revere ANZAC day the way we do and how it actually has defined us.
Not going to go into detail of what was said but if people can get a copy of it or it ends up on you-tube read/watch it. Just call it the perfect lesson
But at the end of the day (ironically
), each to their own.