News images of a chemical bomb attack in Syria or devastated buildings in Iraq are just some examples of what modern warfare looks like. We are insulated in some respect from this modern warfare despite the images that are circulated through news outlets and on social media.

The images are heartbreaking but it is hard to imagine what it would be like if it were happening here.

At this time every year, it is important that we stop and reflect on the sacrifices our soldiers made so we didn’t have to endure living in a war-zone. Each year, on Anzac Day you wake yourself up (sometimes early) to head to your local Anzac Day service.

Your alarm goes off and you diligently get ready, to head out the door and pay your respects to those who served and who are serving now. The services provide a small snippet of the sacrifices that were made by ordinary people to ensure that Australia could have the modern comforts that it has today.

Dawn service-goers endure a very minute amount of discomfort while standing outside in the (most often) cold to think about how the soldiers shaped the country that we live in.

Attendance at Anzac Day services has been steadily increasing over the past decade, with many people bringing their children to the events.

It’s an opportunity for grandchildren to march with their grandparents or to remember the legacy of a family member who served in the world wars.

In addition its a chance for children and family of those who are serving in current conflicts.

Anzac Day means different things to different people but as the world wars fade fast into history it is important we pass on those messages to the younger generation.

We must never forget what past and present soldiers do for our country, even if conflicts are held far away across the world.

Anzac Day is one day that we have to take the opportunity to say thank you – for the roofs over our heads, our friends, our family, our jobs and our pets.

Even for the little things, like the cup of coffee you have every day or the car you drive. But especially for the relative safety and communities that we live in together, free of major conflict.

Lest we forget.