Lest we Forget

Hundreds of people gathered at war memorials across West Gippsland on Friday for Remembrance Day commemorations.

Most services observed a minute’s silence at 11am which marks the end of hostilities in World War I following more than four years of continuous war. The armistice was signed on November 11 1918.

The day has gone on to remember all people killed in wars since then.

About 300 people gathered at the Warragul Cenotaph for a service led by Baw Baw Shire mayor Joe Gauci.

Cr Gauci said the day commemorated the 98th anniversary of the signing of the armistice. He said it was appropriate to gather and pay respect for all servicemen and women who died in WWI and all wars which had followed.

He said it was a time to remember the sacrifices that people had made

Wreaths were laid by local primary and secondary schools as well as Warragul RSL, Baw Baw Shire, Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing, Central Gippsland Legacy, National Servicemen, Red Cross, Warragul Police, Warragul Ambulance and Fairview Homes.

Warragul RSL president Noel Tucker recited the Ode and bugler George Smith played the Last Post and Reveille.

A large crowd gathered at Drouin’s Memorial Park to reflect on members of the armed forces who have died in the line of duty.

Drouin RSL president Rod McNabb and vice president Alan Blum led the service, with Mr McNabb closing official proceedings with reflection on important historical figures both during and after World War I.

RSL member Elma Shaw led several community groups, war veterans and local school leaders, who lined up to lay wreaths at the cenotaph. Each member of the community was given a poppy and given their opportunity to reflect at the cenotaph.

Services also were held at Trafalgar, Darnum, Longwarry, Hill End, Narracan East, Thorpdale, Willow Grove, Erica and Walhalla.