In Recognition of Remembrance Day

“Remembrance Day on 11 November is a time to recognise and remember all those who have lost their lives or suffered in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations,” states The Australian Government Department of Veterans’ Affairs.  

The Salvation Army’s Kubirri Aged Care Centre (“Kubirri”) in Mossman, Queensland, is home to residents who share stories their time in the Service in recognition of Remembrance Day. “In 1951, on the second of January, I boarded a train to go to Brisbane to go to National Service training,” resident Ramon says. Coincidentally, he noted that a few days after that, he was introduced to The Salvation Army.”

“I spent four years in the Citizen’s Military Forces (“CMF”) ‘Weekend Warriors,’ and I got up to Staff Sergeant.” he goes on to say. “My training was completely different to what I had thought of, but it was quite impressive to be there.” Ramon has also been recognised for his long service by the Red Cross.

Retired New Zealand Navy Servicemen Gary, also resident of The Salvation Army’s Kubirri Aged Care Centre, remembers his Service well, particularly the doors it opened to see the world. “I liked travelling the world and you get paid for doing it,” he says. “War wasn’t on my agenda, believe me. The New Zealand Navy was working with the American Navy to do an operation decrease, so I was fortunate enough to get down to the South Pole twice.” He also went to Egypt.

Gary notes his time in the service still holds great significance. “I had a lot to do with the old Servicemen back in New Zealand,” he says. “Most of them were Vietnam Vets and, of course, a lot of them didn’t make it back and it just makes me reflect. I was lucky. I didn’t get over there, but I do remember them and their families, very much so. That’s a big thing for me – the remembrance.”

Betty, also a Kubirri resident, has fond memories of her time in the Voluntary Aid Detachments (“VAD”). “I worked for the Red Cross, as a volunteer. I was 16 when I did this, and we trained in first aid. I always wanted to be a nurse from when I was a young child,” she states. Her time as a volunteer even provided her with the opportunity to see Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II. “We formed a guard of honour for the Queen when she came out in 1954 to Lismore.”

Reflecting on Remembrance Day, Ramon notes its importance. “ANZAC Day has a big following. Remembrance Day, because it might not be a weekend or there’s no holiday, it sort of escapes a little,” Ramon says but reiterated the importance of recognising those who served or presently serve. Gary’s advice to future generations? “Just remind them that whatever they do, don’t forget. Don’t forget the generation before them left the world a good place.” For Betty, she passionately avows, too. “Just remember and go. It is amazing, Remembrance Day today; the number of school children that come, which is wonderful. I think the school children should keep coming, because they’re the future.”  

Sources:

The Australian Government Department of Veterans’ Affairs