Anzac Day is an appropriate time to reflect on why our more recent veterans are being left behind in the day's social and nationalist resurgence. As the number of Australians wanting to become involved increases, unforeseeable changes in the fabric of the day and its meaning are occurring.

That's only natural: Anzac Day means many things to different people, and culturally constructed movements are seldom stable.

There have been well-meaning but disrespectful changes. In many cases, Anzac Day has gone from being a solemn event to one with a carnival atmosphere. Images of casually dressed young men with Australian flags tied around their necks are hard to look at when I'm reflecting on a friend who recently tried to commit suicide because of the burden of his military service.

Rather than being a time for us to reflect on sacrifice and service, it's increasingly become a celebration of nationalistic spirit and identity. This isn't a criticism, but the focus on our national Anzac identity has left behind those who have served.