A record crowd of more than 200 people turned out for the ANZAC Day dawn service at the Bowral War Memorial on Monday morning.
More than 60 veterans who served in conflicts such as World War II, Vietnam, Malaya and Korea marched with representatives from the HMAS Albatross and local scout groups to the ceremony, which marked 90 years since the ANZACs landed on the Gallipoli Peninsula.
"It's 90 years ago today that Australian men were heading towards the beaches and horrors of Gallipoli, an event that led to the birth of our nation," president of the Bowral RSL sub-branch John Cummins said.
"It is today that the ANZACs received their baptism of fire on the shores of Gallipoli."
Mr Cummins said those who served Australia fought for higher ideals, without thinking of themselves.
"They fought for freedoms that are sometimes taken for granted. They joined out of a sense of duty and many made the supreme sacrifice," he said.
"This morning we dedicate ourselves to the ideals they fought for."
Mr Cummins also paid tribute to the men and women from Australia who are currently serving overseas.
"At this very moment young men and women from Australia are in foreign countries; attending their post, waiting and guarding their base," he said.
"We may not always agree with the powers that send our men and women to serve in foreign lands, but we all hope and pray they complete their tour of duty safely. We also pray for their families."
Mr Cummins also acknowledged the nation's debt to those who served on the home front during times of conflict.
"We need to remember the women of Australia, who took over so many vital roles and served in the Land Army and worked in munitions factories," he said.
"The war effort could not have been what it was without their full support."
Mr Cummins said ANZAC Day was a unique time to reflect on ideas of service and nationhood.