The Anzac spirit was strong in Wellington yesterday.
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The Dawn Service at the Cenotaph in Cameron Park began the day of commemoration.
Several hundred residents payed their respects to the Anzacs and to all past and present military personnel.
A moment of silence was held before the Dawn Service began.
The Wellington Soldiers Memorial Club then held a Anzac toast and breakfast.
The March proceeded through Lee Street and towards Cameron Park.
The Anzac Day ceremony opened; the Last Post sounded; the wreaths were laid and Captain Frank Tamsitt delivered his speech:
“In the Hall of Memory, at the War Memorial in Canberra, are inscribed on the stained glass fifteen quintessential qualities displayed by Australians in war.
“They may not have been held by all, but we can see from them, determined by those who had fought, something of that spirit.
“I believe that they are valuable as they are devoid of modern day moralising and relativism, as were those who fought.
“They are simple and clear, and show so much of what inspired those who fought.
“Resourcefulness, candour, devotion, curiosity, and independence.
“Personal qualities that we see among Australians every day.
“Comradeship, ancestry, patriotism, chivalry, and loyalty.
“Social qualities, somewhat unfashionable. But tested, strong and proven. Coolness, control, audacity, endurance, and decision. Fighting qualities.
“The qualities of youth and enterprise.
“I hope that something of those feelings attitudes that motivated our country in 1914 remain in our society today. I believe strongly that they do,” he said.
“They may sleep at times, but I hope if required they will wake.
“I believe we see that sprit on ANZAC day. A day that’s significance does not lag, that grows stronger each year. That despite calls from some that it is outdated, that is militaristic, that it is not inclusive, it celebrates that spirit that existed, and continues to exist within our country.
“That spirit… it inspires us still.
“Duty, patriotism, and individual sacrifice are the enduring legacies of the Anzac. I believe that they are the essence of the spirit. Above all, we remember those who have served, and those who made the supreme sacrifice.
