Anzac legend lives on in troops, children

Bob Shewring's connection to Anzac Day stretches back to one of the bloodiest battles of World War I, and now the Northern Territory veteran's grandchildren draw pride from their family's sacrifice.

The former Vietnam soldier's father served in World War II, and his great uncle's name is etched on Darwin's Cenotaph for giving his life in WWI during the Battle of the Somme on the Western Front in France.

"He's in an unmarked grave over there. It's very poignant," Mr Shewring told AAP.

With medals over his heart, the 70-year-old marched alongside his two teenage grandchildren in Darwin's Anzac Day parade as thousands of Territorians lined the streets and applauded.

"It's fantastic to see the younger people turning up. I'm honoured to have my grandchildren with me and supporting me," Mr Shewring said.

Children waved Australian flags to the sounds of military music and the marching boots of troops proudly parading in the sweltering sun.

Some of the last surviving World War II diggers took part in the march, alongside young troops fresh from deployments in the Middle East.

Captain Dean Callas wears a black bracelet inscribed with the name of his 22-year-old mate who was killed in 2011 while they were deployed to Afghanistan.

"To me, Anzac Day isn't just about Gallipoli anymore, it's also about remembering him," he said.

Capt Callas plans to play two-up and share some stories with friends after the march.

He said the century-old legend continues today as the next generation of Australia's soldiers prepare to renew the Anzac legacy once again.

"It gives them an understanding of the history and the importance of the traditions they serve," the 31-year-old said.

"It's crucial to understanding why they do what they do."

Commander of the Darwin-based 1st Brigade, Brigadier Ben James admitted it can be difficult to make sense of the large scale loss and devastation from WWI and conflicts since.

He also reflected on the grief that has gripped families touched by war and the invisible injuries that haunt diggers long after they return home.

"(But) our veterans and currently serving soldiers - indeed our wider communities - continue to draw enormous strength and inspiration from the values and national character that was forged at Gallipoli 102 years ago," he said.