By KATHRYN BERMINGHAM
THERE are not many occasions that could bring the whole of High Street to a standstill, but Berwick’s Anzac Service last Saturday did just that.
Thousands lined the streets to show their appreciation for the many veterans, emergency services personnel, clubs, schools and musicians involved in the annual Anzac Day march.
Beginning at the Berwick RSL at 10.45, crowds clapped and cheered for those parading. Many wore medals of their own or on behalf of family members.
This year’s guest speaker was Wayne A’Vard, vice-president of the Berwick RSL.
Wayne’s grandfather served in Gallipoli and France before returning home to settle in Berwick and become a founding member of the Berwick RSL.
Four generations of subsequent A’Vards have served with the Australian Armed Forces, with Wayne enlisting in the Royal Australian Navy in 1966 and serving nine years as well as three years in the RAN Reserve.
Speaking poignantly of the effects of Gallipoli, Wayne said the war had a profound impact on Australia.
“On that fateful day in July 1914, our destiny and the character of this nation was to be tested and changed beyond imagination.”
He told the moving story of his grandfather, injured three times serving in Gallipoli and France, and encouraged those present to reflect on their own personal meaning of Anzac Day.
“Each of you, and particularly those veterans gathered here, will have your own memories and reflective moments,” he said.
“Coming here today with you all to commemorate that defining moment in our nation’s history, by the actions of those young men 100 years ago, this is what Anzac Day means to me.”
Wreaths were laid by various politicians, clubs and schools as well as members of the public to remember those involved in conflict, including more than 65 young men from Berwick who enlisted in World War I.
Many local schools were represented by students in uniform.
A gunfire salute and planes flying overhead added to the atmosphere of respectful remembrance before the thousands in High Street joined to sing the national anthem.
A barbecue at the Berwick RSL followed what was a moving and respectful commemoration.
