Australian Defence Force Army Gunner Cooper McCallum from the Brisbane based 1st Regiment, Royal Australian Artillery attended the Anzac Day dawn service at the Wauchope RSL.
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He was among many Australian soldiers who returned home for Anzac Day ceremonies.
Troops participated in commemorations in communities where they have a strong connection - either the place they think of as home, or where they bonded with locals during the devastating summer fires and recent floods.
Commander Forces Command, Major General Matt Pearse, AM, said it was important for soldiers to preserve the connections they have built in some of the worst fire-affected areas.
"As the COVID-19 restrictions ease, we are taking this chance to get some of our soldiers back to the areas they were working in during the fires," Major General Pearse said.
"This is an opportunity to strengthen Army's commitment and contribution to our community.
"Many of those communities have asked us to make a particular effort to get our people back to show their appreciation for the work they did."
The Anzac Day dawn service address was delivered by Wauchope High School's vice captains while the captains stepped in with leaders from Wauchope Public School for the main service address.
Mayor Peta Pinson and Cr Sharon Griffiths were in attendance.
Meanwhile, at Comboyne residents lined the village's main street for the march.
Comboyne Public School students walked alongside veterans.
At the service, William Swan shared the history of local WWII serviceman the late Mr Walter Duck of the 2/7th Independent Company.
Vietnam Veteran Mr Ian Chambers delivering the commemorative address.
Councillor Robert Turner laying a wreath on behalf of Port Macquarie Hastings Council.
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