THE sun shone down on Leeton's cenotaph as a huge crowd gathered to pay their respects during the town's main march on Thursday.
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Veterans, descendants, school children, representatives from groups such as the Scouts, Guides, Leeton RSL Sub-branch, the Red Cross, NSW Police Force and members of the community gathered to remember the sacrifices made by men and women during times of war and conflict.
This year's service was led by Leeton RSL Sub-branch vice president Peter Williams, with the Leeton Town Band, Leeton Army Cadets, Father Robert Murphy and others all contributing to what was a reflective time as they town paused as one.
Leeton High School's captains read the names of the town's fallen from World War I and World War II as students from across the shire went forward with their names emblazoned on white crosses with knitted poppies to plant them around the cenotaph.
A wreath laying was also held to ensure those who paid the ultimate sacrifice are never forgotten.
Mr Williams said it was important to remember and reflect on Anzac Day each year even as time marches on.
"It's important we all remember on this day," he said.
"It's really great to see such a great crowd here, especially all of the young school children."
Guest speaker for this year's main march was Colonel John Brennan, who spoke of Australian soldiers who served not just once for their country, but twice.
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"Today is also about remembering those current men and women serving in all of the defence forces," he said.
"It's important we remember those who have been lost in all operations, in training accidents and those who have been emotionally scarred by their service to our country."
The service was rounded out by the sounding of the Last Post and reveille by bugler Ian Bull, a minute silence and the singing of the national anthems of Australia and New Zealand by the Leeton Town Band.
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