At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, We will remember them.
This has been the mantra for generations of Australians on ANZAC Day, along with The Last Post and one minute of silence, as the nation celebrates and remembers those who have fought and died for our country.
Every year in Greenbushes and Bridgetown, hundreds gather to show their respect on April 25th, but for the first time in over 100 years, these celebrations will be suspended.
The COVID-19 restrictions, put in place to ensure safe social distancing, have resulted in a ban on all gatherings which means no ANZAC services will be held in 2020.
We can still acknowledge our service men and women, both past and present, but with everyone being told to stay at home, the ANZAC tradition as we know it, will be done very differently.
One recognition of ANZAC day in Bridgetown will be a live social media broadcast at 5.50am of The Last Post, a one-minute silence and The Rouse, which will be performed by local bugler Tim Streeter and shared on FaceBook by Flying Eye Photography.
At 6am the local Bridgetown bellringers will collaboratively ring their bells on their properties, which will be followed by local musician Tracey Barnet who will broadcast The Last Post in the main street of Bridgetown. Other musicians will continue this throughout the day.
Everyone is also invited to stand outside their houses to shine a torch as a show of respect during this time, with Bridgetown Newsagency offering free red cellophane paper to use on their torches to resemble a red poppy.
Bridgetown RSL Sub-Branch President Mr Terry Linz said it was disappointing that there could be no community gatherings to acknowledge ANZAC day but was pleased to know the community would still appreciate and recognise the significance of the day.
"Anzac Day is a significant day for all Australians and a time for private thoughts and memories," Mr Linz said, "2020 will be the year for private reflections as there are no public services overseas or in Australia, but the day remains just as important."
As a member of the local RSL, Mr Linz was also looking forward to the centenary celebrations of the Bridgetown sub-branch in July this year.
"On the 7th July, 1920, the RSL State Executive ruled that Bridgetown Sub Branch should be in possession of its own charter", he said, "We hope to observe and celebrate this occasion later in the year."
With the aim of the RSL to commemorate, support and provide comradeship to veterans and their families, Mr Linz believes it is a great support to the individuals in the community who have been defence force members, and their families.
Mr Linz said there was another opportunity for individuals to show our support to those currently serving our country.
"If you wish to express your support for our current service men and women please send an email with your message to supportthetroops@defence.gov.au."