Patriotic young Serbs march in Sydney's ANZAC Day Parade

On Bright Saturday, 25 April 2009, for the first time many young Serbian men joined ranks in the traditional ANZAC Day March in Sydney. Approximately 50 new marchers came by bus to honour their forefathers and fathers, the Serbian Chetniks who fought in World War II as allies of Australia. The group consisted of varying community members: lawyers, builders, scientists and the like from a range of parishes: Lazarica in Alexandria, St George in Cabramatta, St. Stephen in Rooty Hill, etc.

These young men were dressed in black suits with black subare and marched on behalf of our loyal Serbian forefathers. Many who observed the parade were overwhelmed by how well they represented our Serbian community - with such an extraordinary level of dignity! They exhuberated an incredible aura of respect, showing how humble and admirable Serbian men can truly be, creating such a positive image of our Serbian youth in Australia.

His Grace Bishop Irinej, deeply moved by their participation and patriotic loyalty, expressed his sincere personal gratitude to these truly outstanding members of Sydney's Serbian community who deserve heartfelt congratulations not only for their work this year, but as encouragement to continue this noble tradition. And to ensure the perpetuation of this tradition, His Grace has appointed Fr. Rade Radan as chaplain to the Serbian Chetnik Movement "Ravna Gora", and Fr. Jovan Vesic, who is in the service of the Australian Airforce, as chaplain to the the Serbian ANZAC Day Parade Committee.

Jasna Kalinov

Source: www.soc.org.au