IN the trenches of the Western Front during World War I, a soldier said to his dying mate: “I’ll look after the missus and kids.”
This became known as The Promise and for 100 years Legacy has upheld the promise to ensure no family of a deceased or seriously injured veteran goes without financial support.
Run by volunteers known as Legatees, Legacy has helped hundreds of thousands of Australian widows, families and children of soldiers who lost their lives or health, during or following service in all conflicts from World War I to Iraq.
Legacy supports about 40,000 widows, children and dependents across the nation.
Locally, 58 widows receive support through Legacy.
From the time of bereavement, Legacy is on hand to provide emotional and practical support and to ensure the family is not disadvantaged financially.
Swan Hill Legacy branch assistant secretary Harold Heslop said the organisation ensured those affected by death or disability at war received ongoing support.
“Legacy’s work can mean a child gets an education and a fair go, a widow is not disadvantaged and alone, and a family is not torn apart by the effects of post-traumatic stress or other psychological injuries,” he said.
“Legacy is one of the few non-profit organisations worldwide that offer this service.”
The Swan Hill Legacy branch will join with comrades across the nation to commemorate 100 years of support.
The major event is The Legacy Centenary Torch relay, which will travel around the world, stopping at all 45 Legacy clubs and starting in Pozieres, France in the lead-up to Anzac Day.
Legacy Australia called for volunteers around Australia to assist on the day with local relays.
Although the relay will not make its way directly to Swan Hill, those wishing to show support can do so by taking part in Mildura’s relay.
Mr Heslop served in Vietnam with the 6th Battalion but said it was not necessary to be a veteran to lend a hand.
“Anyone is welcome to become a Legatee and the work is vitally important,” he said.
“You just have to be a reputable person with the interests of Legacy at heart.
“Social security (Centrelink) doesn’t offer a lot financially and many verts return home with lifelong injuries and health problems.
“In fact the aged pension for an ex-serviceman is the same as for everyone else.
“When you take into account the extra medical costs associated, it can be really tough for some families.
“There are a lot of blokes paying most of their pensions towards aged-care facilities with little left over for anything else.
“Part of my role is to advocate for veterans to receive total and permanent incapacity status with social security as many have crook backs and knees from service.”
For more information on the 100 years of Legacy commemorative relay, visit www.legacytorchrelay.com.au.
