Cadets will still suit up

The Katanning community will keep the spirit of Anzac Day alive by taking part in a unique Statewide dawn service from their homes.

For the first time since World War II, traditional services have been put on hold this year to protect the community from the spread of COVID-19.

Instead, an initiative led by RSLWA will see residents across the State take to their driveways and balconies at 5.50am to honour Australia’s servicemen and women.

Katanning’s 518 Army Cadets will do their part, with cadets to don their uniforms across town.

Lieutenant Joel Anyon said Anzac Day was the biggest event of the year for the cadets and he encouraged all residents to pay their respects.

Mr Anyon said the cadets looked forward to their role in the traditional service, calling the parade to order before the march and raising the flags at the local war memorial.

“The cadets asked what we could be doing to commemorate it without doing an Anzac service so I thought we would get involved with our driveway service and get dressed like we normally would,” he said.

“It’s just an important sign of respect for all our returning servicemen and women and for those who are still serving.”