Parkes war veterans and servicemen and women came together for two special services in August.

The first commemoration at Cooke Park on 10 August honoured all those who lost their lives during conflicts in both Afghanistan and Iraq over two decades, and thanked those who continue the fight against supremacists and terrorism.

Known as MEAO Day (Middle East Area of Operations), wreaths were laid by Parkes RSL Sub Branch president Keith Woodlands, Afghanistan veterans Bradley Kelly (Australian Army), Adam James (RAAF) and Karl Martin (Royal Australian Navy), Member for Orange Phil Donato and Deputy Mayor Marg Applebee.

The Last Post and Rouse were sounded by Duncan Clement.

Mr Donato and Cr Applebee also gave an address during the ceremony.

The second service recognised Vietnam Veterans Day on 18 August, held at the Vietnam War Memorial at the base of Memorial Hill.

There were wreath layings, speeches including one from Mayor Neil Westcott and a prayer from Father Brian Schmalkuche.