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Junee Remembers Them

Junee Mayor Bob Callow pays his respects.

On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month a minute’s silence falls across Australia as the nation remembers those who fought for our country. The service was packed with Junee community members, some with medals, some with wreaths, but all were filled with an air of deep respect for their servicemen and womenVice President of the Junee RSL Sub Branch, Maurice Goldstraw, conducted the service due to President Greg Zakharoff being unable to attend for medical reasons. It was a special service with Darren McDevitt and Michael McCormack also speaking and the introduction of the community placing poppies, which is said to become a reoccurring tradition.

 

 

The service started with Maurice opening before he handed it over to Darren McDevitt who discussed the importance of honouring those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Michael McCormack continued to discuss its importance before David Hilliard said a prayer that transitioned into the minute’s silence. People were invited to lay wreaths, then poppies before the ode and Shane Logan once again acted as bugle, continuing his dedication to Junee’s commemorative services.

 

 

A catafalque party was also in attendance throughout the service. Despite the blistering heat, Maurice Goldstraw was still stunned by how many toughed it out to pay their respects.

“It went very well, it was great the way the community supports us,” he said. “We invited the community to place down some poppies. It gives everyone in the community a chance to say thank you. “It’s the first time I’ve conducted a complete service. I was a bit nervous at the start but it went well.” Zakharoff was on his way back from Sydney on the day and could not make it due to being discharged so late.

 

 

“The community make the services. The veterans and townspeople make Remembrance Day and Anzac Day.” Local veteran Bruce Warburton was equally impressed by the support from the community. Mayor Bob Callow made it on the day along with previous mayor Neil Smith which gave an extra layer of importance.

 

 

Mr Callow said, “I thought it was one of the best we’ve had in a long time. It brings home what the day is about and involves the kids in such a way, it’s personal. We have so many who have served and passed away in their service. The town turns out to remember them, honour them and thank them as they always will.”

“Thanks, Junee, for coming out and supporting this.”

Remembrance Day is always in good hands when it’s organised by the Junee RSL Sub Branch.

Jack Murray

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