Sir Angus Houston hopes Australians take time to learn more about the "Anzac experience" as the nation pauses for centenary commemorations.
Six months after visiting Albany for the 100th anniversary of the departure of the first Anzacs, Sir Angus returned to the coastal WA town to honour their sacrifices.
The retired Air Chief Marshall gave the keynote address at the commemorative service which followed Saturday's annual parade at Anzac Peace Park.
Australians owed those who served our country a huge debt, and we must not forget their sacrifice or that of their families, he said.
"As we continue to commemorate the Anzac centenary over the coming years, let us hope that all Australians take the time to learn more about and develop a greater understanding of the Anzac experience, our military history, its costs and its huge impacts on our society," Sir Angus said.
About 62,000 Australians were killed in WWI while more than 150,000 were wounded or fell ill.
Sir Angus said it was hard for people today to comprehend the scale of the losses.
He used an example of one family in which one son was sent home wounded, while his two brothers died.
Their mother never recovered, he said.
Sir Angus said WWI put Australia and New Zealand on the map, and the Anzac tradition continued today.
"The relationship between Australia and New Zealand was forged in common sacrifice and it is one that remains and prospers to this day," he said.
Anzac Day was also about remembering current and former servicemen and women, Sir Angus said.
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