A LARGE crowd gathered in front of the Flying Boat Museum at Lake Boga to pay their respects at the town’s Anzac Day service.
Locals both young and old marched and attended the service.
The occasion was especially important for ex-navy member and leader of the Lake Boga Sea Scouts Mark Smith whose children were marching along with him.
“Its paramount that we remember these things so that even in the times like now where we face conflicts in Ukraine and so forth, that we don’t forget what happened,” Mr Smith said.
“This is not something that should be glorified, it should be something that we should be warned about, and to stay away from.”
The sentiment was echoed by Lake Boga Uniting Church Pastor Barry Page.
“For Anzac Day, what usually comes to mind are the brave men and women that gave their lives for our freedom in World War I and II,” he said.
“But for me it’s about all wars. Even the current ones in Israel and in Ukraine.
“And we’re not here to celebrate war. We celebrate the sacrifice of all of those who gave their life for their country.”
Lake Boga Lions club member Robyn Howarth recalled memories of when she attended Anzac Day services in the past.
“I was privileged to witness old soldiers struggling out of their wheelchairs with tears running down their face, struggling to put their poppies next to the names of those that never returned,” Ms Howarth said in her speech.
Children and young adults from Lake Boga Primary School and Lake Boga Sea Scouts have highlighted the importance of learning about Anzac day at school and at annual services.
Venture Scout Hamish Bethune felt it was important to attend Anzac day services as a young person, as a reminder for future generations to not repeat history.
“I think it’s important to remember that sort of thing just to ensure it doesn’t happen again,” he said.
“We should make sure we’re respecting everything that happened and everyone that died. That’s why I’m here.”
