One hundred and two years since the legendary landing by Australians at Anzac Cove, Anzac Day continues to be an important day to commemorate the sacrifices made by servicemen and women for our benefit.
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And each year the spirit in Glen Innes continues to grow stronger, RSL Sub-Branch president Gordon Taylor said.
“We’ve had about 400 the last couple of years and I’d be expecting at least that this year,” he said.
Even the younger generations are becoming more and more involved in ceremonies as the years go on.
“More and more young people are getting involved each year,” Mr Taylor said.
“I think it’s to our sub-branch’s credit and a lot to do with our involvement in schools.”
This year will also feature a fly-over from the RAAF No. 76 Squadron.
“They have a long-time history with us because their squadron leader was from here and killed in New Guinea,” Mr Taylor said.
“So every year from then on the air force comes up for our Anzac Day march.
“We’ll also be allowing at all of our services, the children who are wearing servicemen’s medals, to come up and acknowledge who they are marching for.
“We’ve only started doing it the last few years but it’s very well received.”
At the conclusion of the morning service, veterans who have passed away since last Anzac Day will be recognised, with family members given the opportunity to speak at their graves in the Glen Innes cemetery.
Later in the day, Glen Innes High school captains will make a speech at the Commemoration Service, with a lunch and wreath laying to follow at 12pm.
Mr Taylor said each year returned veterans march alongside the community.
“Our returned service men and women who will be marching this year include Bob Donald, Vince Maxima, Cliff Destrey, Milton Peak, Butch Webster and Frances Morbay,” he said.
The first Anzac Day commemorations were held on April 25, 1916.
The day was marked by a wide variety of ceremonies and services across Australia and the world, with a march through London and a sports day in the Australian camp in Egypt.