Free Republic

MATESHIP is set to be be a central theme of Anzac Day commemorations around Australia this week, with organisers expecting large crowds. Australians will pause on Tuesday to remember the sacrifices of those who died in the line of duty, 91 years after the original Anzacs landed at Gallipoli. This year's commemorations come just days after an Australian soldier accidentally fatally shot himself while maintaining his rifle in Baghdad on Friday. Thousands of people are expected to flock to veterans' Anzac Day marches and parades in major cities and towns throughout Australia. The Defence Department says about 1500 Australian servicemen...

The Story of Our Lady of Genazzano A view of the town of Genazzano, resting place of the miraculous painting of Our Lady. A few miles from the city of Rome, lies Genazzano—a city rich in history and blessed with the presence of a miraculous painting of the Blessed Virgin that has an amazing story.The origins of Genazzano date back to the times of the Roman emperors. Because of its proximity to Rome, the city was chosen by many patricians and imperial courtiers as a site for their country villas. The vast gardens surrounding these villas often served as the...

THERE will be no booze and no Bee Gees and visitors to this year's Anzac Day commemorations at Gallipoli will be given garbage bags. Announcing arrangements for the 91st anniversary of the Gallipoli landing, Veterans Affairs Minister Bruce Billson said the Australian, New Zealand and Turkish governments were united in their commitment to protect and preserve the former battlefield in Turkey. Mr Billson, flanked by Turkish Ambassador Murat Ersavciand and RSL head Major General Bill Crews at the Australian War Memorial, said many lessons were learned in dealing with the record crowd which attended the 90th anniversary activities last year....