More than 150 St John Cadets will be joining forces with other youth organisations during the Anzac Eve Youth Vigils to stand guard over War Memorials in the lead up to the 100th anniversary of the Anzac Day Dawn Vigil.
In true military tradition they will ‘hold the ground’ across the state, including at the South Australian War Memorial on North Terrace, from 6pm on Thursday April 24 until they hand over the following morning for the Dawn Vigils.
This year, St John has also been invited to march in the Centenary Anzac Day Parade in recognition of their involvement in Voluntary Aid Detachments during World War I.
They will bear flags and banners of the different regiments, with some of the youthful members assisting Veterans in wheelchairs during the march.
St John Ambulance SA Commissioner, Noel Hender, is honoured that St John will not only provide first aid care for such a major event but that they will also be highly involved in the numerous vigils, parades and ceremonies across South Australia in the 48 hour period marking the 100th anniversary of Anzac Day.
“We are immensely proud that St John Cadets will be one of only 12 youth organisations standing guard for 24 hours during the Anzac Eve Youth Vigils across the state.
“St John and Red Cross were deployed in the First World War and to mark the centennial milestone we have also been bestowed the great honour of being invited to march in the parade with the RSL,” adds Mr Hender.
“’The inclusion of St John Youth Cadets in the centenary Youth Vigils illustrates the importance of involving younger generations in the tributes for Anzac Day.
“It is a fantastic opportunity for young people to be involved in commemorating the 100th year of Anzac.
St John Cadets will attend at least eight of the vigils across the state where they will stay overnight and support each other in looking after the war memorials.
They will also be able to attain a special edition St John proficiency badge to mark the Anzac centenary.
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