St George paused today to mark the Centenary of the signing of the Armistice that ended World War I.
A Commemorative Service was held at Penshurst’s Anzac Memorial in Bridge Street this morning with crowds pausing for one minute of silence at 11am marking the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, 1918 when the guns finally fell silent on the battlefields of Europe.
It marked the end of the “war to end all wars” which saw more than 62,000 young Australians lose their lives.
The Commemorative Service was organised by the Penshurst RSL Sub-branch and was attended by veterans, school students, council representatives, local Members of Parliament and many members of the public.
Penshurst RSL Sub-branch president John Hoban was Master of Ceremonies and the honour guard was provided by the Riverwood Air Cadets Hornet Squadron.
The hymn Abide with Me was sung by the St George Sing Australia Choir and the Commemorative address was given by Kim Thompson.
Personal tributes to WWI veterans were read by family descendents Kim Thompson, Judy Moon, Ron Morecombe and Barry Stevenson.
Following the wreath laying, the Ode was read by Kevin Kelly and the Last Post played followed by a minute’s silence in honour of the fallen.
The Lord’s Prayer was read by Mrs Frances Greene.
Following the service participants were invited back the the Penshurst RSL Club for refreshments and to view an exhibition of historic WWI photos and memorabilia presented by Georges River Council.
