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Remembrance Day: Australia to commemorate those who made ultimate sacrifice

Today is Remembrance Day, when Australia commemorates members of its armed forces who have died in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations.

This year’s event is being held on the 25th anniversary of the nation’s largest peacekeeping mission to date, when thousands of Australian troops deployed as part of the International Force East Timor (INTERFET).

Launched in September 1999, the peacekeeping mission was a turning point in restoring stability to the region after a period of unrest and violence.

Australian soldiers deployed with the INTERFET peacekeeping mission in East Timor during 1999. (Nine)

The multinational force was commanded by Australia’s General Peter Cosgrove and ensured the safe transition of East Timor to independence in 2002.

More than 5500 Australian troops were initially deployed, making it one of the largest operations since the Vietnam War.

Six Australians tragically lost their lives while deployed, or as a result of their service.

This year’s Remembrance Day National Ceremony at the Australian War Memorial will be broadcast live on television, as well as being live-streamed on the memorial’s Facebook page.

What events are held?

Commemorative services are held in Australia at memorials, schools and community centres today.

The national ceremony is organised by the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.

Across Australia, everyone is welcome to attend a Remembrance Day service.

They are free and you don’t need to be a Returned and Services League of Australia (RSL) member to attend a service at your local sub-branch.

As part of the commemorations, the Sydney Opera House was lit with the symbolic red poppies. (Photo: Kate Geraghty)

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