HUNDREDS of people gathered in the chill of dawn at Swan Hill’s cenotaph yesterday to honour the service and sacrifice of Australians who have served in wars and conflicts.
RSL sub branch president Peter Ritchie said the Dawn Service gave people the opportunity to remember and thank the servicemen and women who served for Australia’s freedom.
“We meet here this morning, not to glorify war or praise victors, but to remember those who served our country during times of conflict and sacrifice and reflect upon their selfless sacrifice,” he said.
“Australians continue to honour, remember and thank the servicemen and women who have served for Australia’s freedom. Let us renew our commitment to the nation and the values that they believed were worth dying for.”
Mr Ritchie asked people to remember the many Australian defence force members who are currently deployed on operations, continuing the Anzac spirit while serving Australia’s national interests at home and in many countries around the world.
“Also remember those who have since passed, many of whom suffered from the effects of war,” he said.
RSL chaplain Denis Gell led prayers, including the Lord’s Prayer and the Prayer of Remembrance.
Mr Ritchie recited the Ode, followed by bugler Damien Howison of Swan Hill playing the last post and reveille. A minute’s silence was observed.
Members of the 4/11 Squadron of Air Force Cadets raised the flags.
Both the national anthems of Australia and New Zealand were played.
The service concluded with people laying poppies at the base of the cenotaph.
