Anzac Day, 25 April, commemorates the sacrifice and dedication of Australian Service Personnel in past and recent conflicts. For many people it also represents the dark days when their loved ones were gone from their lives and they did not know if and when they would return home. Conversely, those involved in the wartime operations looked forward to a time when they could see their families and friends again, a frequent subject in their letters and postcards.

To commemorate such times, here are several songs on the ukulele that convey how it feels to miss your loved ones with no reconciliation in sight.

The World War II song, We’ll Meet Again, made famous by Vera Lynn, conveys the mixed feelings when farewelling a departing member of the services. It was very much a case of keep your chin up despite the uncertainties of a future reunion. Annie the Clumsy gives a very heartfelt rendition.

Ain’t No Sunshine by Bill Withers portrays the emptiness experienced by those who are missing a loved one. Maria Isas performs this song from a woman’s perspective, which is especially relevant on Anzac Day, as many women are left alone during wartime.

During times of separation when partners are deployed overseas, all that is left is one’s imagination to bring you back together. Leo Sayer’s When I need You, expresses this situation beautifully. The following version is by Ukulele Cover and Kalimba.

The Letter by the Box Tops was written during the Vietnam War. Overseas personnel looked forward to the letters from home and could not wait to get back to their significant others. I’m sure that this song was inspired by this situation. The duo, Toast Garden, perform this song with a great deal of verve and feeling.

Through songs such as these, perhaps we can understand some of the feelings of worry and uncertainty experienced by those separated during conflict and how they must have tried to overcome their fears. Many were never to see their loved ones again and for those who have felt such loss, commemorations like Anzac Day are especially important. Play your ukulele and remember them.

Lest We forget

Kat