The 106th anniversary of the Armistice that concluded World War I saw hundreds of residents gather at local memorials and cenotaphs to honour all those who made the ultimate sacrifice for land and country.
Kilmore Wallan Returned and Services League of Australia (RSL) Sub-Branch President Graeme McSolvin lead the Remembrance Day service at the Kilmore Cenotaph.
He spoke about remembering not only those who fought in the great wars, but honouring those in Australia’s current defence force, many of whom embody the same values as the original ANZACs: Endurance, courage, ingenuity, good humour, larrikinism, and mateship.
Students from St Patrick’s Primary School read poems reflecting the inquisitive mind of a child and presented letters written to local veterans of the RSL. Wreaths were laid by Kilmore Wallan RSL, Mitchell Shire Council, Partners of Veterans, Assumption College, Kilmore Primary School, Kilmore Bowling Club, and the Commonwealth Bank Kilmore branch.
Kathleen O’Reilly poignantly played the bugle for the Last Post and Reveille, and the service was concluded by Isabella Zoch giving a solo rendition of the national anthem.
At the Wallan War Memorial, the remembrance service was lead once again by Garry Sturdy from the Kilmore Wallan RSL Sub-Branch, and attended by Member for Northern Metropolitan Region Evan Mulholland.
Wallan Secondary School’s school captain presented a key reading, and children from Dudley Street Childcare and Kindergarten each laid a poppy and handcrafted wreath at the cenotaph.
Mr McSolvin extended his heartfelt appreciation to those who had generously contributed to this year’s Poppy Appeal. Funds raised from the appeal will provide a range of services and support to veterans of all generations and their immediate families.
We will remember them. Lest we forget.
