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Rosemary for Remembrance |
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Rosemary
is a small perennial shrub of the mint family.
This compact evergreen, with clusters of small light blue flowers and leaves that yield a fragrant essential oil used in making perfume and to flavour food, is native to the Mediterranean region. Legend says that the Virgin Mary, while resting, spread her cloak over a white flowering rosemary bush. The flowers turned the blue of her cloak, and from then on the bush was referred to as the "Rose of Mary". |
| This plant was, in ancient times, supposed to strengthen memory. Greek scholars wore rosemary in their hair to help remember their studies, and the association with remembrance has carried through to modern times. In literature and folklore it is an emblem of remembrance. On ANZAC Day, the wearing of small sprigs of rosemary in the coat lapel, pinned to the breast or held in place by medals is thus synonymous with remembrance and commemoration. | |
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Peaked caps (Caps,
Service Dress) were worn by soldiers of
the 1st A.I.F.
This form of head-dress was in fact a standard item of issue to other-ranks of the A.I.F., along with the slouch hat. It should be noted, however, that this of style of cap differed in quality and style from that worn by officers. As you will have noticed, the cap is very common in photographs taken whilst the men were in training camps in Australia, and as you may have also observed is commonly seen in photographs taken at Gallipoli. In fact , it has been recorded that many of those in the initial landings chose the cap for wear because of its British appearance. At this time many individuals looked up to the traditions and reputation of the British 'Tommy' . However, following growing disillusionment resulting from perceived let-downs by the Brits, a new desire to be distinguished as Australian's quickly appeared, and in many cases caps were quickly replaced by the distinctive felt hat when supplies became available. At the same time growing concern by medical authorities over the lack of protection afforded by the cap also influenced the change-over. Although the cap remained standard issue throughout the war, it was not taken to the battlefields of France and Belgium. |
