Submission to the Australian War Memorial

As an ex-RAAF officer of 30 years permanent experience and many years as a reservist, I commend the resign to fit with an expanded vision. When the AWM was first established, Australia had many competing priorities for funding and the agreed structed fitted the times. As national wealth has improved, so the AWM has adapted to meet its central role and reflect Australia's role in military operations. The proposed southern entrance provides an improved dignity, form, and function to the building that will help all who visit the building in commemorate the sacrifices of of those past Defence and supporting staff.

The Anzac Hall was never going to meet Australia's increased military role in global affairs and operations. If those who participate in such operations today and sadly into the future are to commemorated, the AWM must grow with this expanded coverage of operations. To not do so is to have future generations forget the subsequent sacrifices that have been made to those already commemorated. As an ex-ADF officer of 30 years service, I am still actively involved as a lecturer in university education. I am still amazed at the lack of understanding, ignorance and unawareness shown by most of my students in the debt that has been paid by past generations of Australians and the pride that should be felt, not just on Anzac Day, but always in the way Australians have risen and excelled at challenges. The AWM is perhaps one of the most effective ways on reminding people of past sacrifices and great deeds, not just on one day, but all days. Keep up the great work!