Anzac Day is an occasion each year to commemorate and honour the memories of our veterans past and present – together with paying respect to the ongoing commitment of our service personnel in Australia and abroad.
The Anzac legacy invokes values of courage, ingenuity, endurance, humour, mateship and so much more – repeated in commemorative speeches, stories and as part of war memorials across the country.
At RSL LifeCare, commemorating stories and memories of Anzac Day connects generations amongst our residents, veterans, clients, families, staff members and local communities.
We will remember them. Lest we forget.
Anzac Day through the generations…
This year, we spoke with members of our RSL LifeCare community to learn more about what Anzac Day means to them – and the spirit that has been passed down through generations.
Learn more of their stories below – and let’s continue to share our own stories across our communities as we commemorate Anzac Day.
Charlotte Webb & her daughter Ava
Charlotte Webb works with veterans every day as RSL LifeCare Riverina Veteran Wellbeing Centre Manager, helping provide veterans and their families with the support and care they need to transition out of service and live as part of civilian life.
As a current serving reservist, Charlotte is a role model for her 12 year old daughter Ava, who reflects fondly on what Anzac Day means to her and her family.
Charlotte Webb & her daughter Ava
Foad Sakkouri & his son Joseph
Foad Sakkouri fled war-torn Palestine when he was just nine years old. He arrived in Australia and built a life for his family, including his son Joseph.
Joseph visits his father every afternoon and they reminisce on a lifetime of memories.
RSL LifeCare Executive General Manager, David Anderson reflects on Foad and Joseph’s story and our support for veterans amongst our local communities.
Foad Sakkouri & his son Joseph
Nicki Young & Mark Fawell
RSL LifeCare Chief Operating Officer, Nicki Young and General Manager of Residential Care, Mark Fawell have long histories – both personally and via family – to service.
Nicki was a Navy nurse for 21 years and is a current serving reservist, while Mark and members of his family served in the British Royal Air Force.
The pair are linked not only as executive leaders at RSL LifeCare, but through their memories of what prompted them to commit to serving their nations.
Nicki Young & Mark Fawell
Shane Fender & his son Tyrone
Coming from a long line of WWI and WWII veterans, Shane Fender has served in the Australian Defence Force for the last 23 years.
His 15 year old son, Tyrone looks up to his dad and knows how important it is to reflect on our past and recognise the sacrifice our veterans have made to ensure the freedoms we enjoy today.
Shane Fender & his son Tyrone
General Sir Peter Cosgrove & Little Diggers preschoolers
General Sir Peter Cosgrove AK CVO MC (Retd.) is known to many Australians as a former Governor General of this country, as well as a former Chief of the Australian Defence Force.
General Sir Peter Cosgrove took time out recently to visit some of our youngest generation continuing the Anzac Spirit, meeting the Little Diggers, who are located in RSL LifeCare ANZAC Village.
From one of Australia’s most respected and recognised military figures to those that are yet to realise their path and potential in life, Anzac Day and the meaning behind it holds a special place in many Australians’ hearts – no matter our generation.
General Sir Peter Cosgrove & Little Diggers preschoolers
Do you have an Anzac Day story that spans generations?
You can contribute to our collection of stories and memories by sharing your personal stories on our Facebook page @continuingtheanzacspirit, or by tagging us on your Instagram @rsllifecarelimited. Sharing your story online helps keep the spirit of Anzac Day alive.
More about RSL LifeCare
Since 1911, RSL LifeCare has been serving the community by providing professional, caring support for veterans. Today, we welcome all members of the public – whether veteran or non-veteran – to live in our villages, care homes, or to support you to live independently at home.
Despite our growth and the passage of time, RSL LifeCare remains true to our original aim and mission – to provide a home of peace and security to senior Australians. Take a look at the services we offer.
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