REFLECTIONS AT DAWN: Anzac Day and a Meeting of Courage

Commando Damien Thomlinson being congratulated by Commander Phillip Anderson

The chill of the pre-dawn air at Dee Why Beach this Anzac Day held a profound stillness, a moment for quiet reflection before the rising sun painted the sky. Being part of the Dawn Service, surrounded by my community, was a powerful experience. But the morning held an even more significant moment for me: the privilege of meeting Commando Damien Thomlinson.

Damien's story is one that stays with you. Serving with the 2nd Commando Regiment in Afghanistan's Tarin Kowt District in April 2009, his life changed in an instant when his vehicle struck an improvised explosive device. The severity of his injuries is hard to fathom, yet he not only survived but has gone on to share a truly remarkable journey.

Hearing about the immediate aftermath of the explosion, the unwavering courage of his mates who fought to keep him alive in those critical moments, speaks volumes about the legendary Anzac spirit of mateship. It's a bond forged in adversity, a commitment to one another that transcends all else. And then there's Damien himself. His resilience in the face of such trauma is nothing short of inspiring.

What struck me most profoundly about Damien was his humility. Here is a man who has faced unimaginable challenges, yet he carries himself with such grace and down-to-earth sincerity. His address was deeply moving, filled with a quiet strength that resonated with everyone present. He is, without a doubt, a great Australian.

In his words, and in his very being, I heard echoes of calls to action that stay with me: to "rise above the petty," to "see beyond the barriers," to "think ahead of the challenges," and to "look over the obstacles." These aren't just nice-sounding phrases; they are powerful reminders to focus on what truly matters, to broaden our perspectives, and to proactively meet the difficulties that life inevitably throws our way.

Meeting Damien reinforced the true meaning of Anzac Day – not just remembrance of the past, but an inspiration for the present and the future. His dogged determination, coupled with the courage and unwavering support of his mates, embodies the very essence of the Anzac spirit. It was a privilege to be in his presence, a moment that will stay with me long after the sun has fully risen.