Albany Anzac Day 2023: ‘Different types of service’ highlighted during morning commemorative service address

Large crowds lined York Street to show their appreciation for parading veterans as well as service men and women for the Anzac Day March on Tuesday. The parade was led by mounted police, the 10th Light Horse Brigade and older veterans who waved enthusiastically to the crowd from the back of vehicles. The procession made its way to Anzac Peace Park bottom of the street for the morning commemorative service drawing the crowd with it as it went. Wreaths were laid beneath the national flags of Australia, New Zealand, Turkey and France as well as the Union Jack before the last post was played to usher in a minute silence that was broken by a Royal Australian Air Force fly-past. Albany RSL sub-branch service director Michael Tugwell then delivered the service’s keynote address. This year marked the 50th anniversary of the year the former regimental sergeant-major in the Australian Army signed up for service. During his address, Mr Tugwell said Anzac Day was a day to honour those who have served in their country in any way, as well as those “who support those who served”. “Ladies and gentlemen, we have a national debt to those who have served, particularly those who succumb during battle or after battle,” he said. “How do we pay this national debt? They would tell you it’s very simple: all we have to do is — on days such as this — is to stop, pause, reflect, remember and respect their service.” During his address, Mr Tugwell also touched further on the “different types of service” that were provided by so many beyond those traditionally front of mind. These included roles in the women’s land army, the defence manpower scheme, emergency services and many more. Following the conclusion of the morning commemorative service, the public was invited to the Stirling Club for an event hosted by the RSL.