Bridge Over the River Kwai

I took this photo nearly five years ago when my wife and I visited Thailand. I woke up this morning reflecting on ANZAC day and wondering about the many themes and facets of what has become our national day. As a country we "came of age" when we invaded another and lost. What does that say about us? But I have visited a number of war sites and have previously attended the dawn service. I seem to have a need to share in the pain and loss of those who have sacrificed so much through their death or disability.

Another theme I find confronting is the announcement a couple of days ago that we are going to spend $12 billion on fighter planes with a similar amount to be spent on their maintenance (that totals around $1000 per Australian)! I don't want "my" $1000 to be spent on machines that cause even more death and disability!