THE residents of local aged care facility Holy Spirit held an Anzac Day commemorative service yesterday with prayers and stories remembering the "blood" sacrifice soldiers gave for the sake of defending the nation.
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Dubbo RSL Sub-Branch president Tom Gray spoke of the Anzac spirit among the forces on the shores of Gallipoli almost a century ago.
"We're not here to glorify war or praise heroes but to reflect on the sacrifices made," he said.
"Anzac Day is paid for in blood and celebrated in freedom."
Mr Gray said many of the volunteers were teenagers who were eager to prove their courage and determination to fight for the young country.
They fought under the flag and showed raw courage and self sacrifice.
Mateship was at the heart of their battle and gave fruit to courage, perseverance and heroism with no limits, he said.
"The greatest gift is our freedom and opportunities we have because of them," he said.
Mr Gray told the elderly residents the Anzac spirit could be lived today.
"We can do less challenging acts which reflect the same spirit," he said.
A dawn service to begin Anzac Day celebrations will be held at 5.45am for a 6am start at the cenotaph in Victoria Park tomorrow morning.
