Anzac Day is an emotional time for many people.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
And for Dubbo’s Lieutenant Colonel Scott Morris, Wednesday’s service marked his final ceremonial activity before he officially retires from the army later this year.
The former commanding officer of the School of Infantry in Singleton was the guest speaker, and said it was “humbling” to return to where it all began.
“I … remember lining the streets, Macquarie Street, and watching my grandfathers march when I was a child,” Lt. Col. Morris told the Daily Liberal after the commemorations.
“To be able to come back at various stages of my career, and to participate in what is ultimately my last ceremonial activity in army, it was a real moment of reflection and one that I’m really proud of.”
Hundreds once again lined the sunny streets to watch as ex- and current service personnel, and family members of those passed, marched from the Dubbo RSL Memorial Club to Victoria Park.
Also represented were organisations such as the Salvation Army, the emergency services, as well as the children of Dubbo and various sporting organisations.
Marchers and spectators came together around the cenotaph for the official memorial service, highlighted by Lt. Col. Morris’ speech and, as always, the emotional ringing out of the Last Post.
Lt. Col. Morris spoke of the legacy of determination, courage and resoluteness that saw Australian soldiers help retake the village of Villers-Bretonneux on April 25, 1918, and end the German offensive on the Somme.
He remembered the local men who perished in those battles: Private Frederick Martin (22), Private Frederick Subbs (22), Private Alfred Parker (25) and Captain Norman Lovett (27).
“Today we also remember the soldiers, sailors and airmen who have fought, suffered or made the ultimate sacrifice in both world wars, and in all other conflicts that our nation has participated in,” Lt. Col. Morris said.
“In particular today, we remember those veterans in Dubbo community … that carry the wounds of their service, both visible and invisible.”
Speaking after the service, Lt. Col. said it was “wonderful to be home”.
He said Anzac Day helped to highlight the impact of war and “contextualise loss”.
“It’s a selfless act and not just selfless to serve, but to commit your life to a cause,” he said.
“So many men and women who have died in the service of our nation can be recognised on events like this.
“As the Last Post echoes around memorials and parks, beaches and military bases … we honour those who founded the Anzac legend and all of those who have selflessly followed in their path. Lest we forget.”