President of the Oakleigh Carnegie RSL, Doug Pendergast, expressed his thanks to the many people who attended the Anzac Dawn Service held on Monday 25th April 2022 at the Oakleigh Cenotaph.
“After 2 years of not being able to hold our Anzac Dawn Service it was wonderful to see so many attending.”
“And once again our most important commemorative service of the year was very well supported by our local schools, guides, scouts, sporting organisations and community organisations as well as the broader community.”
He thanked Toni Stathopoulos, Oakleigh Grammar, who participated in the service and read the poem ‘In Flanders Field’', Zoe Keefe from Oakleigh Brass who played Last Post and Reveille, and Scott Turner, Moorabbin Pipe Band, who played during the laying of wreaths.
“The Australian Great War Association have been a constant support at our Dawn Services by providing the Catafalque Party, and with the spectacular 3 volley gun fire salute which concludes our service.”
He said that Anzac Day gives us all an opportunity to pause to remember the men and women who served in WW1, and all who served in all wars, conflicts and peace-keeping operations.
“We also pay respect and honour to our current defence force members who represent our country on a daily basis.”
“By standing quietly at the Dawn Service and reflecting, we are saying that we have not forgotten, and we will not forget."
He said that the spirit of Anzac lives on and we must be vigilant that our society remains one that values freedom, tolerance and a fair go for all.
“We need to maintain the Anzac’s sense of commitment, courage and perseverance, and we can honour their sacrifice by living a good life in support of others.”
Lest We Forget