In the coming weeks, Australia will mark the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II.

It seems only yesterday since the 50th anniversary of that same date, when scores of veterans, most in their eighth decades, charmed the nation at a series of commemorative events from recreated rail and road convoys to parades.

Despite their age, the veterans had lost none of the larrikin traits that characterised them and their military service.

Quietly in the background, the nation was simultaneously farewelling the remaining few World War I veterans, men and women who are now all gone.

The bittersweet contrast was not lost on...