George Town’s last remaining World War II veteran was among the guests at the Centenary of Armistice commemorations on Sunday.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Clarence Andrews was honoured by his children, Maria Florissen and Steve Andrews, both of whom were guest speakers at the ceremony.
The elder Andrews’ presence at the event was made even more special by the fact he had been unable to attend the Anzac Day service earlier in the year.
A total of seven members of the Andrews clan were involved in World War I, with one not returning.
George Town RSL sub-branch president Don Mackrill said it was “amazing” to have a veteran like Mr Andrews attend the service.
The day also featured a speech from Doug Baird, whose son Cameron was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross in 2014.
Mr Mackrill said the 11am event was eloquent in its brevity.
“It was short and to the point,” he said.
“There were probably more than 300 people in attendance, and the weather was just perfect, so it was a success.”
The George Town commemorations included a march, as well as music from the Pipes and Drums ensemble of the Police Band
As with this year’s Anzac Day service, the Remembrance Day commemoration was streamed on the radio, so those unable to attend could listen in.
After the 11am service, a sizeable crowd gathered the sub-branch’s new location on Macquarie Street.
Mr Mackrill said it was a fitting end to festivities.
“It was a magic conclusion to what I consider a wonderful George Town day,” he said.
“It’s been a long time since that has occurred in Australia’s oldest town.
“After a considerable mount of time was spent organising the Centenary of Armistice for George Town, I am exceptionally pleased with today’s outcomes.
“The RSL team that planned and facilitated the end result across the last few months worked wonders.”
For photos from the day, go to the George Town RSL sub-branch facebook page.