RESIDENTS paused to reflect at Remembrance Day services that were held across the region on Friday (November 11).

The Marburg and District Residents Association hosted their Remembrance Day Service in front of the Heritage Centre.

The front of the building was decorated with poppies and the display in the centre was decorated around the Remembrance Day theme.

“The service began with the Anzac version of ‘I am Australian’ and the senior students of Marburg State School spoke about the reason for wearing the red poppy before reading, In Flanders Field,” said Association member Wendye Gratton, who led the Service.

“Students also read the names of the Marburg fallen and raised the flag.

“During the wreath laying the song, ‘We will Remember’ was played and the Ode was read by Leo Faranda.”

At Haigslea State School the Remembrance Day ceremony included special guest Retired Able Seaman, Glenn Sugar West, who gave the Commemorative Address.

Principal Andrew Sellick said Glenn told the story of Teddy Sheean, the only sailor in the Royal Australian Navy to receive the Victoria Cross honour in the World War II.

“Our school Captains Logan and Heidi led a beautiful ceremony with Grade 6 student Timothy also reciting the poem For the Fallen,” he said.

“Students had the honour of being flag bearers and our wreath laying ceremony had a special touch as our youngest and oldest students placed a wreath.

“I am always moved and taken back by the way our students respond to these special days of Remembrance, as we reflect on those who came before us and made the ultimate sacrifice with so much bravery and courage.”

In Rosewood, the RSL hosted the Remembrance Day ceremony in front of the Soldier Memorial in Anzac Park, for families, community groups and local school students.

RSL President Bernie Mason welcomed all to the service, before the Catafalque Party made their way to the memorial.

‘In Flanders Field’ was read, Abide with Me was sung, scripture readings and prayers were led by Father Stephen Bliss, Rosewood High School students read the names of the Fallen and everyone in attendance reflected during the Ode, the last Post and the One Minute Silence.

Stories were shared over a light lunch prepared by the Rosewood Country Women’s Association on a special day of reflection for … “those who served and continue to serve our country”.