For more than 100 years, Australians have paused on November 11 to honour the sacrifice of service personnel who have fought and died in war, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

Defence personnel acknowledge Remembrance Day wherever they are situated, including those deployed on operations supporting Australia’s national interests.

Many aviators, such as Leading Aircraftman Jagdeep Saini, from 34 Squadron’s Security Flight, volunteer to speak about what the day means for them.

For Leading Aircraftman Saini, Remembrance Day is not just about history – it is about connection.

“For me, the day is about understanding that the uniform I wear today is part of a story that began long before I joined,” he said.

“Those who served before us faced challenges we can barely imagine. They flew in harsh conditions, fought in distant lands, and often knew they might not come home, but they did it for their mates, for their families, and for a future they believed in.

“When I think about that, I realise that the values we talk about are not just words on a poster. They were lived by real people in the toughest circumstances.”

Born in Punjab in India, Leading Aircraftman Saini said his inspiration to join the Air Force was his father-in-law, who served as a technician in the Indian Air Force.

“He often shared stories about his experiences and postings across India, which sparked my interest in military life,” Leading Aircraftman Saini recalled.

'Remembrance reminds us that peace did not come easily, and it will not stay without effort.'

Now an Australian citizen, Leading Aircraftman Saini joined the Air Force in 2022 and is currently serving as a member of the Security Forces, posted to 34 Squadron in Canberra.

He said joining the Australian Defence Force had been a life-changing decision for him and his family.

“My children look at my uniform with admiration. To them, it represents strength and responsibility and they feel proud knowing their dad plays a role in keeping the country safe,” Leading Aircraftman Saini said.

“As a family, we understand the challenges that come with Defence life but we also see the bigger picture.

“It is about contributing to something greater than ourselves, and it is that sense of pride and purpose that keeps us motivated and united.”

Leading Aircraftman Saini said at 11am, when 34 Squadron stopped for one minute of silence, he was not only thinking about those who gave their lives.

“In that moment, I was thinking of those who fell, but also of the families who carried the weight of loss, and the veterans who still inspire us today,” he said.

“Remembrance reminds us that peace did not come easily, and it will not stay without effort.

“Let us honour their example not just in words, but also in how we serve, how we support each other, and how we live every day.”