‘‘It was a wonderful service and a day in which we could remember and reflect,’’ said the sub-branch’s vice-president John Foran, who has been a member of the RSL for more than five decades.

Mr Foran said the support of the community at the well-attended service had made proceedings special for those had served themselves or were honouring the memory of loved ones.

‘‘There was a very emotional story recounted about a 14-year-old boy who lost his life at Gallipoli,’’ he said.

‘‘It just brought home to many people how young some of the soldiers were in those days who volunteered their services.’’

Mr Foran said he had lost an uncle in France in 1918 during the last days of WWI.

‘‘It has been a wonderful day for me but very emotional,’’ he said.

The sub-branch held a march from Mood Park to the Albion Park RSL Club, which was escorted with the help of the NSW Police. A service was then held at the club.

RSL sub-branches across the Illawarra held marches and service on Sunday to commemorate the 100th anniversary of ANZAC Day.

The Austinmer/Thirroul RSL sub-branch held a march and service from Lachlan Street Thirroul to Woodward Park.

The Woonona Bulli RSL Club held a march from the IGA car park to the cenotaph at the Woonona-Bulli RSL Club; and Corrimal RSL members marched to the memorial at Anzac Grove off Railway Street, returning to Corrimal RSL Club for a service.

The Warilla RSL sub-branch also held a service at their sub-branch hall on Sunday.

The Dapto RSL memorial service march weaved its way from the Ribbonwood Centre to Dapto Railway Station, and was then followed by a service.