ANZAC Day holds profound significance for serving naval medic Zamri Burns
Since joining the Royal Australian Navy for a ‘change of scenery,’ medic Zamri Burns has seen much of the world in his 20 years of service. He’s been deployed to the frontline in Afghanistan, has carried out work in Iraq and has been sent to the Solomon Islands. He’s also lost mates and has seen how traumatic the impact of conflict can be on fellow service members, communities within the conflict zone and families back home.
Zamri, 45, considers it an honour to be once again delivering the ANZAC Day address at the upcoming Pittwater RSL dawn service.
“It’s my way of giving back to the community that’s given so much to me,” he explains. “It’s part of the service, I enjoy doing it.” He has been a member of the Pittwater RSL sub-branch for 12 years.
The Warriewood local’s last deployment was to Afghanistan in 2019, where he stayed for seven months. As a chief petty officer and an underwater medical clinician, he was deployed to support the US special operations command surgeon. For this service, he received the US Defense Meritorious Service Medal.
Through his work as a naval medic, Zamri has looked after the health of the crew onboard various vessels, from war ships to minehunters and has also been involved in delivering humanitarian aid.
He is still in the navy and has spent the last few years home spending quality time with his wife Kate and daughters, Livia, 10 and Odette, 8, while studying medicine at university. He says this has been valuable as ‘I didn’t know my children when they were young,’ as he was often away at sea. Now in his final year of study, Zamri says he expects to be deployed again once he finishes his degree.
In the meantime, 25 April has him reflecting on many issues. “ANZAC Day holds a profound significance for me. It is a day dedicated to recalling the bravery of our predecessors and acknowledging the sacrifices of the fallen,” he explains. “This occasion provides a moment to pay homage to the bonds of mateship, comradeship and friendships forged during our service.
Zamri delivering the Pittwater RSL ANZAC address in 2023
“Additionally, it serves as a poignant link to our shared history, guiding future generations to understand the importance of reflecting on the past and preserving the legacy.
“In commemorating their contributions, we ensure that the spirit and lessons of those who came before us remain vibrant and relevant.”
During last year’s address, Zamri made reference to veterans suffering from PTSD and depression and urged the crowd to seek help when needed. “I think it’s something everybody in the military should be aware of,” he says. “You never know when the black dog (depression) might bite.”
He also adds the importance of finding support. “Every veteran, if they are able, should engage with their local RSL sub-branch or with a veterans service organisation,” he says. “The mateship, support and advocacy provided is invaluable.”
Following his dawn service address at the Pittwater RSL Club this ANZAC Day, Zamri plans to march in the parade through the city. “It’s just remembering the people that have gone before you,” he adds. “It’s not about glorifying war. It’s about doing the right thing.”
Visit the Northern Beaches council website for a list of ANZAC Day services.