‘For the fallen’: Russell Crowe shares incredibly moving Anzac Day tribute

Apr 25, 2020
The star has lent his iconic voice to a moving Anzac Day tribute.

Russell Crowe has marked Anzac Day in a beautiful way, sharing a poignant tribute online on the morning of April 25. The Hollywood star lent his iconic voice to a moving video in honour of Anzacs past, present and future, as people across the country came together to remember their sacrifices from the safety of their own homes.

The two-minute-long video features a beautiful countryside scene, while Crowe reads the emotional words to Laurence Binyon’s renowned 1914 poem ‘For the Fallen’, which has become an international emblem for remembrance all over the world.

“With proud thanksgiving, a mother for her children, Australia mourns for her dead across the sea. Flesh of her flesh they were, spirit of her spirit, Fallen in the cause of the free,” Russell begins, replacing the word England from the original poem with Australia.
“Solemn the drums thrill; Death august and royal, Sings sorrow up into immortal spheres. There is music in the midst of desolation, And a glory that shines upon our tears, he continues. “They went with songs to the battle, they were young, Straight of limb, true of eye, steady and aglow. They were staunch to the end against odds uncounted; They fell with their faces to the foe.”
Russell then reads the iconic verse: “They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old; Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning; We will remember them.”

Many people praised Crowe for the poignant tribute on social media, with one writing: “This is much more than a prayer … The memory of those young people comes straight to the heart, Russell … Well done.”

Another commented: “This is heartbreakingly wonderful. Thank you.” While another wrote: “You are giving me chills and goosebumps.”

Due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, the country has been forced to ditch traditional Anzac Day services, with people forced to celebrate from the safety of their own homes instead. Many Australians still rose early to watch or listen to the national commemorative service, which was broadcast on all free-to-air channels, and held vigil in their own driveways to pay tribute to Anzacs past, present and future.

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Many people shared images on social media of their personal services, with people choosing to honour the fallen by lighting candles, erecting wreaths and displaying photographs of loved ones who have served, or currently are serving, in the armed forces.

The Starts at 60 community also came together in remembrance and shared photographs of loved ones who had served or are currently serving in conflicts around the world.