The special day was hijacked due to the idiocy of a public holiday on Monday, giving many people the opportunity to squander a long weekend.

Also, Anzac Day seems, for many, to be a day to get blind drunk under the false guise of “paying respect” to the diggers.

The pride of those who marched to commemorate the desecration of lives that were lost in terrible circumstances was reflected by the tears in their eyes.

These people gave all, they deserve our utmost thanks and most of all — our respect.

Unfortunately, the day was marred by many people drinking the day through, becoming involved in drunken brawls and threatening venue staff when they were refused service or entry to premises because of their intoxication.

Closing time at several central city venues saw an influx of people onto the streets, causing hassles for police and other members of the general public.

Do other countries mark their day of respect to their war veterans with drunken revelry and brawling?

I think not.

Anzac Day needs to be pulled back into perspective and be marked as a day of remembrance to those who gave their all in the defence of our country, and to those who have served and are at present serving in active duty in the name of Australia.

Anzac Day is a day for deserved respect for what it represents, not what it has become for many — just a day to get drunk!

— DOUG BARKER,

Lavington