PEOPLE came together on Monday morning at Horsham College to remember the Wimmera men and women who served in the Second World War during the bombing of Darwin.
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The Darwin Defenders group had the service to honour and remember veterans on the 76th anniversary of the day Japanese fighters bombed Darwin.
February 19 is recognised around the country as a National Day of Observance.
One Second World War veteran was in attendance – 96-year-old Frank Fischer.
He said it was an important ceremony to attend.
“It’s great, I really appreciate it. I come every year,” he said.
During the service, wreaths were laid in respect of those who have served in war for Australia.
Mr Fischer laid a wreath on behalf of the 32nd Battalion.
Nhill Returned Services League president Henry Berry said it was important students from Wimmera schools had the opportunity to remember those who served.
“It’s a great ceremony and we like to remember all the veterans did to help shape the country we have now,” Mr Berry said.
“I served in Vietnam and we all support each other.”
The ceremony was led by school captains from Horsham College and Dimboola Memorial Secondary College.
Natimuk resident Keith Lockwood was guest speaker for the service.
During his speech he paid homage to the men and women who served in Darwin, urging students to realise how lucky they were not to have witnessed war on home soil.
“We have a lot to be grateful for that war has not come to our shores in a long time,” he said.
We would all find it difficult to imagine what it was like in Darwin all those years ago, but we all have a duty to remember and honour all of those who were there.
- Keith Lockwood
“I am a member of the next generation, and students of the next generation again, giving us two generations of peace.
“We would all find it difficult to imagine what it was like in Darwin all those years ago, but we all have a duty to remember and honour all of those who were there.”
Horsham Rural City councillor Mark Radford also reiterated the importance of remembering the lasting effects the veterans have had on Australia following the Second World War and other conflicts Australia had been involved in.
“It’s important as we gather some 76 years later to say thank-you,” he said.
“Never underestimate the commitment of these older folks in the days back then and since.
“We have a fantastic country, a beautiful country. All of those men and women who served back then and since, some of those never came home, so it’s important for us as a community to never forget them.”