Catherine Grimley, Tennant & District Times
Promptly at 9.30 on Tuesday morning marchers stepped off at the Transit Centre for the ANZAC Day March to the RSL.
Led off by veterans or family of veterans, the marchers were escorted by Army vehicles front and rear as they walked, kept in time to the sound of a drum.
As the Main Service commenced at the RSL after the arrival of the marchers the assembled crowd were treated to a flyover by an RAAF plane to start proceedings.
This year’s main address by Sergeant Pam Dillon focused on the sacrifices and service of animals in war (represented by the purple poppy) and reminded everyone that there have also been dogs, birds, horses and even a cat that have served alongside their handlers in war and even have their own medal for outstanding service.
The laying of wreaths was once again done to bagpipe accompaniment, and the Primary School Choir repeated their performance of the anthems.
With the solemn part of the day over with, all that was left was to raise a glass to those that had served, both those that returned and those who did not, to ensure they will never be forgotten.
This article appeared in Tennant & District Times, 28 April 2023.