Using Technology to Bring Aussies Together on Remembrance Day

By Craig Taylor

November 2, 2009

In Australia, a poppy is a symbol of remembrance for those who have served their country since World War I. It was a tradition that started almost a century ago with the poem “In Flanders Fields,” which became one of the most famous poems written during World War I.

The poppies referred to in the poem grew in abundance in Flanders in the spoiled earth of the battlefields and cemeteries were war casualties were buried.

Aussies can now commemorate Remembrance Day on Nov. 11 by downloading a digital poppy to their mobile phone. All funds raised from poppy downloads will help continue vital veteran welfare work in Australia. Visitors can also download mobile content to their wireless devices, such as the Last Post ring tone and the national anthem, "Advance Australia Fair.”

"For the first time Australians everywhere can pay tribute via the web and mobile sites to the 102,000 Australian men and women who sacrificed their lives serving their country since World War I," said Doug Formby, Queensland branch president from the Returned & Services League of Australia. "Plus they can leave a personal tribute on an online Wall of Remembrance, a unique way for Australians to come together and remember those who died in war.”

According to Formby, mobile technology is also helping to “bring values of honor and respect for veterans into the modern era.”