The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month is a moment not only to pause and remember all those who have served and sacrificed in wars and conflicts across the world, but also to reflect on the historical events that led to this day of significance.

Originally announced to mark the anniversary of the Armistice that ended fighting with Germany in World War I, Remembrance Day today gives us all the opportunity to acknowledge the service personnel who died while serving in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations.  

On the first anniversary of the Armistice (11 November was known as Armistice Day until after World War II) King George V asked all the people of the British Empire to observe two minutes’ silence at 11am.  

It is a tradition still honoured today during Remembrance Day services as we remember all who have served in the Australian Defence Force, in World War I and in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations since.  

While it may be the best-known Remembrance Day tradition, the minute’s silence is not the only custom carried out on 11 November.  The red poppy is equally as significant to Remembrance Day. Known as the ‘Flower of Remembrance’, the red poppies were among the first to flower in the battlefields of northern France and Belgium after the conflict ended.