They remembered

By Tania Martin and Casey Neill
HUNDREDS of locals braved the freezing temperatures in the hills last Saturday to remember those who sacrificed so much in war.
Dandenong Ranges RSL service’s guest speaker Lieutenant Commander Stephen Sewell told the crowd at Sassafras it was important to remember the sacrifice WWI diggers made for the nation’s freedom.
“We gather not just to remember the deeds of those valiant men on a battlefield far away, but to celebrate the birth of a nation’s identity,” he said.
“We should never forget their gift or take for granted their deed.”
Lt Comm Sewell said the day defined the freedom hard-won and fought for by those who died.
“It’s fantastic to see children and grandchildren of the war dead marching in memory with or for them,” he said.
A strong crowd turned out for the Upwey-Belgrave RSL’s parade and service, including a contingent from HMAS Cerberus and the Diamond Valley Brass Band.
Guest speaker Warrant Officer Class 2 Matthew Bull said Anzac Day was not about military success.
“We do not celebrate victory or glorify war,” he said.
“We celebrate the Australian spirit. The spirit of Anzac.”
Mount Dandenong Primary School students commemorated the day on Friday with a catafalque party from the Royal Australian Airforce (RAAF).
Sergeant Kim Smith of 21 Squadron said it was vital for today’s youth to remember the sacrifices made at Gallipoli.
“If we don’t continue the tradition, it would just cease to exist,” he said.