Yass ANZAC Day Commemoration

Well, the weather might have had a distinct chill to it, but the Yass ANZAC Day commemoration services – like other services across the Yass Valley – were as warm as they come.

It might have been our imagination, but it seemed that many more people attended this year. Perhaps this was because our COVID-19 situation meant we could gather together, or perhaps it was in recognition of the role the Australian Defence Force plays in NSW keeping us safe from returned travellers who potentially have the virus. Then again, perhaps it was because the last twelve months has given us the opportunity to stop and reflect on the need to focus “Less on me, and more on we”.

Regardless, the two services outside the Yass Memorial Hall were fitting tributes to the men and women who have put Australia before themselves in the defence of the nation.

The highlight of the 11am service was 100-year-old veteran guest of honour, Yass resident John Cockburn. Mr Cockburn arrived in an old army jeep surrounded by a Corps of Staff Cadets from Long Tan Division, Royal Military College, Duntroon. The veteran then undertook a solitary march to the cenotaph with onlookers paying their respects with cheers and loud clapping. Mr Cockburn served as a telegraphist throughout World War II and escaped Singapore before it was overrun by the Japanese. He retired from the Australian Air Force in 1946.

The wreaths laid at the cenotaph were plentiful and poignant, coming from federal, state, and local politicians, local schools, the Red Cross, the police force, the SES, community organisations and others.

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• ANZAC Day