It came right at the end of the day's main service while the hundreds of people who had turned out to pay their respects were preparing to return to their daily lives.

Taking the microphone, Bega RSL sub-branch president Gary Berman's words cut deeply - the group has lost 15 members in just the past 12 months.

"I've personally officiated at five funerals recently," he said.

Mr Berman said, as a result, much of the organising of the Anzac Day services in Bega and surrounding villages was done by just two people, a situation that's not sustainable.

On Thursday there were just three elderly servicemen on mobility scooters at the head of the day's march, and a handful more in vehicles behind.

VIDEOS, PHOTOS: Bega Anzac Day march and service

Veterans of various other conflicts joined the parade a touch further back, but it's a sombre reality that those we gather to honour are dwindling in number

(However, perhaps we can be thankful we haven't seen more conflicts such as those that claimed so many Australian lives in such visceral fashion last century).

Key to modern Anzac Day services across the region has been the involvement of local school students - in the marches, laying wreaths, and giving the special orations on their links to, or understanding of, the Anzac legacy.

There is also the involvement of our new front line, emergency service personnel - police officers, Fire and Rescue personnel and SES volunteers among others - who we cheer on from our place on the footpaths.

The value of our service men and women from all conflicts marked by events such as Anzac Day can not be discounted.

But the involvement and handing down of their stories and their legacy to the next generations is vital to keep their spirit alive.

READ ALSO: Lucas Brothers' legacy lives on through younger generations

If anyone is able to join the Bega RSL sub-branch, or any other for that matter, your assistance and comradeship would be most welcome.

Bega RSL sub-branch can be contacted on 6492 1222.