The numbers in attendance were again a fantastic tribute as to the reasons why ANZAC Day is so important to our nation, and recognising the service and sacrifice of everyone who has worn or is wearing the uniforms of the Australian Defence Force.

A big thank you has to go to all of the school children, who despite being on holidays, arrived in their school uniforms and marched and remembered often wearing the medals of relatives.

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Thanks also has to be given to the High School and La Salle Academy students who, the 220 Army Cadet Unit and Girl Guides recited the prayers.

Great thanks are extended once again to both the Royal Australian Navy, for Captain Matthew Carroll attending our services and the Royal Australian Air Force, for allowing one of their C-130J Hercules aircraft to pay us a low level visit, and to our other dignitaries who were present.

Special thanks has to be given to the Cadets of 220 Army Cadet Unit at Marrangaroo, who not only carried the HMAS Lithgow Banner and Flags, but, despite being asked at the last minute, were able to provide the Catafalque and Flag Party for the main service.

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Once again the Cadets not only did themselves proud, but impressed everyone by their professionalism and dedication.

We have to also thank Lithgow Council's parks and gardens teams for having the park set up for the services, and the traffic management team for providing a clear passage along the march route.

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Wayne Lane and Mark Young deserve special thanks for again providing their WW2 bren gun (universal) carriers to transport our dignitaries to the service, along with everyone who provided vehicles in the march, especially the Australian Armoured Vehicle Association for providing their vehicles whilst attending Ironfest.

Apart from that, there are just way too many people to thank to list them here, but please be assured, that to everyone who provided assistance to the sub-branch in making ANZAC Day a special day, we thank all of you, especially you Lithgow, with so many of you turning out in the cold early hours for the Dawn Service and watching the veterans, descendants and children march, each and every year, we will ensure that the sacrifice of all men and women who have protected Australia is never forgotten.

Thank you all.

Michael Cuthbert

Honorary Secretary

Lithgow RSL sub-branch

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