Anzac Day is a time for reflection and remembrance for all of us, especially those who have served for our country.

For both Essendon and Collingwood, it is also privilege to be able to take the field on this special day.

This is never lost on the players, coaches, staff and all involved.

Bomber, Kyle Langford resonates strongly with its importance.

To him, Anzac Day holds significant value, labelling it a ‘honour’ and ‘privilege’ to be able to partake in the blockbuster match.

“It’s an absolute honour and privilege, it has such a rich history not just for the football club but for all of Australia,” Langford told AFL 360.

“It is about representing both our past, present and future who have served our country.”

Langford has strong ties to the day, with his great grandfather having served in World War II in Papua New Guinea.

“My great grandfather Andy Farrar served in Papa New Guinea in World War II, and that is something the I reflect on, especially during the final post,” Langford said.

“From my understanding, he contracted Malaria when he was over there, got blown up by a bomb and obtained shrapnel wounds from a bomb where he got sent back to the medical tent where he managed to sneak back out right back to battle.

“Before the war he worked at the Victoria Brewery and also played football with them.”

The stories to be told of the heroics of our Anzacs showcase the true sacrifices that were made by many Australians in times of great conflict.

To honour this, Essendon make a special trip to the Shrine of Remembrance every year.

First year players and staff learn about the history of those who have served and still serve, commemorating their sacrifice for our country.

“Any new player and staff member goes off to the Shrine of Remembrance, we hear stories from past veterans.” Langford said.

“The late Jack Jones would always share his story with us every year, it was always an incredible privilege.”

With both sides sitting in the top four for an Anzac clash for the first time since 2000, the stage is set for a special Anzac Day match at the ‘G.

While the result remains important, the day is bigger than football, this is not lost on Langford.

For him it means more.

“We’re going out there to kick a footy around,” He said.

“For me it’s more than that, it’s looking at what people have done to serve the country, some who even went to war where people die.

“To go out there and kick a footy while wearing the poppy on my chest fills me with enormous pride.”