A day marked by remembrance

THE Army's birthday was likened to a family celebration tinged with sadness by DCA Maj-Gen Peter Leahy, officiating the Canberra ceremony on March 1.

"Our family is hurting today, thinking of the funeral services in Perth and Brisbane," he said.

CA Lt-Gen Peter Cosgrove was absent, attending the funeral of Sgt Andrew Russell, SASR, in Perth, while Land Commander Maj-Gen Peter Abigail attended the Brisbane funeral of Cpl Jason Sturgess, 3/4 Cav Regt.

The day marked the end of the year-long celebrations of the Army's 100th birthday.

In ceremonies at locations around Australia, soldiers and officers gathered to mark the 101-year milestone.

Defence Minister Robert Hill joined soldiers at Enoggera Barracks in Brisbane, cutting the Army birthday cake with Sig Tania Collett, the area's youngest soldier.

Senator Hill said it was a time for all Australians to feel proud of what their Army has achieved in peace and war and to reflect on the sacrifices made by those that have gone before.

"The spirit of the digger lives on within the soldiers of today's Army. We are all very proud to carry on the tradition and values of the digger that has been earned on battlefields around the world," he said.

"The Army continues to serve the nation with pride and distinction at home and around the world."