Right: Pakenham RSL president Norm Joseph addresses the gathering in the Main Street. THE Australian flag flew at half mast while Pakenham residents gathered to mark Remembrance Day at a service in the Main Street on Friday.
RSL branch president Norm Joseph welcomed the people who attended the brief but moving ceremony which was designed to honour the memory of the servicemen and women who have lost their lives for their country.
About 30 residents observed a minute’s silence and reflected on the contribution of Australia’s armed services while the Last Post sounded under grey skies.
The Reverend Dick Johnston was at the service while Pakenham RSL stalwarts Mick Manestar and Rob Fox — both of whom have recently been honoured with RSL life memberships — assisted Mr Joseph at the ceremony.
Among the local veterans who gathered at the Pakenham service were neighbours Albert Boxhall and Jim Davies.
Mr Boxhall, who has lived in the town for about five years, served in the Middle East, the Pacific and the Arctic. Mr Davies recently moved to Pakenham.
“We’re both ex-Navy so we look out for each other,” Mr Boxhall said.
