Anzac Day in Cromwell proved we haven’t forgotten, as high numbers attended Anzac Day commemorations despite early downpours.

As Anzac morning dawned, the heavens opened. However, the rain did nothing to deter large numbers of people from attending the commemorative service at the Memorial Hall, parade and wreath-laying.

Inside the Memorial Hall and in the foyer, there was standing room only. Outside, more people filled the entrance and lined the street.

Cromwell RSA president Denis Ryan said how happy he was to see so many people attending, and he was especially pleased to see so many children and young people present. Denis thanked parents and families for passing on the importance of Anzac Day to the next generation.

The Fine Thyme Belles sang war-time songs to a capacity crowd at the service in Cromwell.

By the time the service ended, the clouds had cleared and the Central Otago sun was shining.

Cromwell resident Tom Landreth placed a wreath upon the cenotaph after the service, on behalf of the Cromwell RSA members.

“At 101 years old, Tom is also our last surviving World War II soldier,” Denis said.

Head Boy at Cromwell College and St John cadet corporal, NCO and youth leader Joshua Hancock was flag-bearer for St John for the service and parade, and shared the job of reading the roll of honour.

“Anzac Day is really special to me because I’ve attended each year with both school and also St John youth.

“I personally want to go into the defence forces, so I’m proud to be part of remembering what others have done for us, the sacrifices many of our soldiers have made.”

Sophia Hinsen helped to lay a wreath on behalf of St John and also a poppy.

St John Penguin, seven-year-old Sophia Hinsen, was one of the youngest to lay a wreath.

Sophia said she was proud to be part of the service and parade, and thought it was fun.

She said they had learned about Anzac Day at school, and she thought the soldiers had been very brave to go away from their homes and families to fight in war.

“We can think about that and we know that it’s better not to have any wars or fighting,” she said.

Let peace begin with me. Let this be the moment now.

With ev’ry breath I take, let this be my solemn vow;

To take each moment and live each moment in peace eternally!

Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me!

Words by Sy Miller and Jill Jackson.

They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old;

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning

We will remember them. We will remember them.