Hundreds commemorate Anzac Day at Capel RSL at well-attended morning service

The Capel community came out in force last Thursday to recognise those who have served in conflict.

Hundreds of residents attended the Capel RSL on Forrest Road to pay their respects during the sub-branch’s morning Anzac Day service.

President Ray Jones highlighted the story of Kevin Arthur Wheatley, who was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross after refusing to abandon his dying friend Ronald James Swanton as the Viet Cong closed in on him.

Collie-Preston MLA Jodie Hanns was the guest speaker at the event and highlighted the story of British soldier Valentine Joe Strudwick, who — just one month short of his 16th birthday — was killed on the front line of the Western Front, becoming one of the youngest military casualties of World War I.

Ms Hanns said it was important to acknowledge the effects of war on young people.

“For every brave soul who marched off to battle, there were countless others whose dreams were cut short, whose futures were forever altered by the ravages of war,” she said.

“Their youth, so full of promise and potential, was tragically snatched away.”

Dozens of organisations and individuals laid wreaths at the Capel War Memorial, while the Vocal Fusion Choir performed during the service.

The morning service followed the dawn service held at Peppermint Grove Beach earlier in the day.