A memorial service will be held from midday.

It will bring together national servicemen and their families from the Port Macquarie-Hastings region and adjoining sub-branches, as well as representatives from other ex-service organisations, state and federal government representatives and members of the public.

National Service Day honours the role of the men known as “nashos” who were called up in two different service schemes.

The service at the McInherney Park memorial is in remembrance of all national servicemen killed in action, and those who died in service through accident or illness.

It is also in memory of the many national servicemen who died since they served in the defence forces.