1st April, 2014
For over a decade Australian troops have seen continuous deployments on operations overseas, often in complex, challenging and extremely dangerous environments.
Following the completion of missions in East Timor and the Solomon Islands, and the continued drawdown of forces in Afghanistan, there are fewer Australian troops serving overseas than in previous years.
During Australia’s operations in Afghanistan 40 Australian Defence Force (ADF) members have been killed and 261 have been wounded. For some of our veterans, mental and physical injuries resulting from their military service will last a lifetime.
Anzac Day is an important occasion when Australians reflect on the courage of the men and women who have served in our name, particularly those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Australia’s military history and our contribution to the maintenance of international peace and security are rightly revered.
This Anzac Day in recognition of the increasing numbers of recently returned Australian veterans, I encourage everyone in Hunter looking to make a lasting contribution to ADF personnel and their families to consider donating to one of the many Ex-Service Organisations dedicated to supporting our serving men and women.
Donations can be made to Legacy (http://www.legacy.com.au/" title="http://www.legacy.com.au/">www.legacy.com.au/donate) or Soldier On (http://www.soldieron.org.au/" title="http://www.soldieron.org.au/">www.soldieron.org.au/give/donations) to support those personnel who have been wounded on operations and those family members who are suffering financially and emotionally from the death of a loved one.
People who still wish to send a care package may consider donating to the RSL’s Australian Forces Overseas Fund. The RSL provides care packages to Australian troops twice a year and your support would contribute to this valuable program.
You may donate online at www.rsl.org.au/Support-Us.