Legacy Week was officially launched at a commemorative service at the Cenotaph in Martin Place today, commemorating 100 years of Legacy in Australia.
Minister for Veterans David Harris attended the commemoration alongside Legacy Sydney Acting President Tim Becker and other members of the veteran community to lay a wreath in memory of our veterans, and to show support for the widows, widowers, and children whose loved ones served our country.
“This Legacy Week we pay special tribute to Legacy for their support for the families of those Australian Defence Force personnel who served our country and gave the ultimate sacrifice as a result of their service.” Minister Harris said.
“Legacy was built on a promise to a dying soldier, to look after his family and 100 years on that promise continues to be kept, an amazing achievement and one we are all thankful for.”
The Legacy badge is a special emblem of support for our veterans’ families, it symbolises our nation’s greatest values of mateship, compassion, and courage. Legacy badges will be sold throughout the Sydney CBD and across NSW over the coming week.
“I encourage everyone to purchase a Legacy badge this week. Your donation will help widows and families of defence forces personnel who gave their lives serving our country,” Mr Harris said.
Today, Legacy ensures that 43,000 partners and children of our servicemen and servicewomen across Australia do not suffer financial or social disadvantage as a result of the loss or serious injury of their loved one.
Acting President of Sydney Legacy Tim Becker acknowledged Legacy Week as exceptionally meaningful as they mark Legacy’s centenary.
“As we reflect on the past 100 years, we stand ready to support our veterans’ families for as long as they need us,” Mr Becker said.
To all those donating, volunteering or spreading the word this Legacy Week – thank you. Your contributions are the heart of our mission. With your continued support, we can fulfil our promise that was founded in the trenches of World War One to care for the families of our veterans.”
Legacy beneficiary Kelly Randall spoke at the commemoration, sharing her story about the support her family has received.
“I am extremely grateful for the public’s support each Legacy Week. Your support helped my family pay for my school uniform growing up. You supported me through uni with textbooks and lab equipment,” Ms Randall said.
It’s nice to see the unity between the community and volunteers, with everyone coming together with the same aim of supporting veterans’ families.”
Find out more about the work of Legacy and how to donate
