Cowra RSL sub-Branch and members of the Cowra Shire community came together last Sunday to honour fallen national servicemen and the sacrifice they made throughout Australia's history.
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In front of the National Servicemen's Memorial in Squire Park, a ceremony was held and a number of wreaths laid.
The day specifically paid tribute to those that served in the Navy, Army and Air Force between 1951 and 1959 in Monte Bello and Maralinga and the 62,342 serving in the Army in Borneo and Vietnam between 1964 and 1972.
Cowra RSL sub-Branch member, Tony Campbell, said it was a chance to remember all servicemen.
"We come together to remember all National Servicement who have served this great country of ours whether overseas or here in Australia," he said.
"Especially those who have passed to a "higher plain" and those who suffer from illness or disabilities attributed to their service.
"National Service commenced in 1951 with service in the Navy, Army and Air Force.
"It was reintroduced in 1964 through to 1972 with service in the Army.
"In total, 359,318 men passed through the ranks in these time frames.
"17,424 National Servicement saw active service in Vietnam, with 200 paying the ultimate sacrifice with loss of life.
"1279 were wounded in action or injured whilst serving in Vietnam."
A prayer was then read before wreaths were laid.
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Wreaths were laid by Tony Campbell (Royal Australian Army), Cowra Mayor, Councillor Bill West (on behalf of the people of Cowra), Ken Guihot (National Servicemen), Graham O'Neill (Royal Australian Navy) and Lesley Marshall (Royal Australian Airforce).
The proceedings also included a poem read by Cowra RSL sub-Branch member, David Rae, was was about the acknowledgement and recognition of national servicemen joining fellow soldiers on Anzac Day in 1996.
A battle hymn was then recited by the members present before the National Servicemen's and RSL "Ode".
A morning tea was held after the ceremony.
