It's ANZAC Day in Australia and New Zealand (or at least it was when it was today there).
This day obviously has more meaning for the Aussies and Kiwis than to a Yank like myself, but it always makes me think of the famous and excellent song And The Band Played Waltzing Matilda by Eric Bogle.
In my opinion this is one of the best war songs written. Definitely not a jingoistic, rah-rah patriot song, but not quite a preachy protest song either.
Just a song that makes us to ask serious and important questions of ourselves.
This version is performed by the Clancy Brothers.
My brother in-law Nick will be home this weekend from Iraq for some much deserved shore leave. It will be great to see him again.
tagged: Australia, New Zealand, And The Band Played Waltzing Matilda, Anzac Day, war, Eric Bogle, Clancy Brothers
Great post! Tell Nick that there are people he doesn't know praying for him. Prayers for him to come home for good, & safe & sound, to dance.
ReplyDeleteSpyder,
ReplyDeleteThanks for your thoughts, they are much valued.
Nick made it home safe after three days waiting at an airstrip in Iraq and about two days of air travel. He was tired, but happy to be home.
The hubby spent quite a few years as a child in Australia. He remembers going to Anzac parades.
ReplyDeleteThat song just makes you want to cry.
Listen to this one: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8jvcm83K2pQ
I'm sure there is a better way to give this to you. But I don't know how yet.