Essendon's Captain's Run session last Friday had more than its share of special guests.

Over 30 children of active and former servicemen and servicewomen were invited for a wholesome hour of interaction with the playing group as the group got ready to jet to the Gold Coast, kicking off a massive week of activations and education for the Dons ahead of the Club's 31st Anzac Day clash against Collingwood.

After a tour of the facilities, the children and their families were able to watch the group train inside the NEC Hangar and were eventually treated to a 45-minute meet and greet opportunity - players and coaches alike getting to know the service history of the kids' families and their love of the Bombers.

Across the Army and Air Force, there was plenty of diversity in the stories across the room and plenty of representation for the red and black - many of the youngsters unable to contain the excitement over seeing their favourite players in the flesh.

Amongst the crowd was Essendon figure, former player advocate and Vietnam War serviceman Iain Findlay, currently doing his bit for the veteran community as President of TPI Victoria.

See all the photos from a heartwarming day at the Club below.