It's a special year

While commemorating the fallen and paying tribute to those who continue to serve Cowra residents were reminded this year also marks the 80^th anniversary of the Cowra Prisoner of War Camp breakout.

The breakout took place about 2am on Saturday, August 5, 1944 and resulted in the death of three Australian soldiers and 231 Japanese prisoners and 108 wounded.

A fourth Australian soldier was killed during the recapture of prisoners.

Cowra's Breakout Committee is currently busy planning events to commemorate the breakout.

Attendees at a ceremony held at the Australian War Cemetery in Cowra laid wreaths in remembrance on Anzac Day of the fallen heroes.

Among those present was Mayor Ruth Fagan, who laid a wreath in tribute to the fallen soldiers.

Retired Australian Army Corporal Flanagan, accompanied by his children, spoke at the ceremony and laid a wreath, expressing heartfelt sentiments about the significance of the day.

"It is Anzac Day, and we are here to commemorate the fallen, and we're also acknowledging those that have survived from all conflicts Australia has been involved in," Mr Flanagan said.

Highlighting the historical importance of this year's Anzac Day, Mr Flanagan reminded those present, "this year though, is particularly important".

"It marks the 80th anniversary of the Cowra Breakout that occurred on August 5, 1944."

He recounted the events of that fateful day, saying, "it was the largest prison escape of World War Two".

Mr Flanagan then paid tribute to those soldiers who lost their lives during the Cowra Breakout.

Privates Benjamin Gower, Ralph Jones and Charles Shepherd lost their lives during the mass breakout. Lieutenant Harry Doncaster died in an ambush during the recapture.