THE Manly-Lota RSL is set to make history this month with the launch of what is believed to be Australia’s first dedicated Modern Veterans Service.
It will recognise Australians who have served in recent decades and those currently serving in the nation’s defence forces.
The initiative has been developed by two serving members of the Royal Australian Navy, Bruce Christensen and Fiona Ewington, who are also active members of the local RSL sub-branch.
Founded in 1916, the Returned and Services League has long commemorated military service through major events such as Anzac Day, Remembrance Day and Vietnam Veterans Day.
While these occasions honour significant chapters of Australia’s military history, Manly-Lota RSL leaders say they are keen to ensure veterans of more recent conflicts and operations also receive recognition.
The Manly-Lota RSL, established in September 1936, says the new service reflects the changing nature of military service and aims to highlight the contribution of veterans who have served since the Vietnam War, including those involved in peacekeeping missions, homeland defence operations and overseas deployments.
Mr Christensen, who serves as Junior Vice President of the Manly-Lota RSL, said the event was designed to acknowledge the service of modern veterans and reinforce that the RSL supports all veterans.
“Many veterans who served after Vietnam have contributed through peacekeeping operations, homeland defence tasks and overseas deployments in often complex and demanding circumstances,” he said.
“Veterans from more recent decades can sometimes feel their service is not as visible as that of previous generations.
“We want this new Modern Veterans Service to demonstrate that every generation of service matters and that the RSL remains committed to all veterans.”
The inaugural Modern Veterans Service will be held at the Manly War Memorial in Richard Russell Park on Sunday, July 19, at 1pm.
A luncheon will follow at the nearby Manly-Lota RSL Hall on Melville Tce.
For details, contact Manly-Lota RSL on 3348 2572.
