As Australia prepares to ink a new chapter in its annals as it ramps up its military campaign in the Middle East, the Anzac centenary and Remembrance Day on November 11 are pertinent reminders of past lessons.
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Our politicians and armed forces leaders should remember the human toll such actions take and their long-lasting and often brutal consequences.
The former West Australian whaling town of Albany, about 430km south of Perth, became the focal point for national Anzac commemorations marking a century since more than 30,000 Australian and New Zealand soldiers left our shores bound for a baptism of fire in Gallipoli.
While opinion has been divided on the cost of the spectacle, estimated about $2.7 million, the spectacular four-day re-creation marks 100 years since members of the brave First Fleet set sail to represent Australia in World War I.
For many fallen soldiers, the rugged granite coastline was to be their last sight of Australia before they travelled to Egypt and then Turkey in 1914.
The commemoration, which was attended by Prime Minister Tony Abbott and Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove, also marked the beginning of a four-year-long celebration that pays tributes to the young men who served.
It is is a poignant reminder, if ever one was needed, of the ultimate sacrifice these soldiers made.
Australia was burgeoning nation, with a population of less than five million, when the Great War erupted.
About 60,000 of more than 416,000 men who enlisted were killed, while another 156,000 were wounded or taken prisoner.
Many who returned home suffered immense physical and mental agony for years.
The loss of lives was heavy, making the re-creation of many soldiers' final journey particularly poignant.
But their experiences on the battlefield, however horrifying, would shape the two fledgling nations and leave behind a proud legacy of characteristics such as mateship, courage and bravery.
The commemorations provide an opportunity for people to reflect on service and sacrifice that have helped keep the enduring spirit of the Anzacs alive, transcending time and generations for more than 100 years.
Without their brave efforts and sacrifice in defence of our freedom, none of us would be able to enjoy the safe and prosperous Australia we have today.
Lest we forget.
