In this guest post, Janet Muir, CEO, RSL LifeCare shares some of what Remembrance Day means to her, as many around the country plan activities to commemorate this important occasion that has special significance for many of those in aged care.
Remembrance Day means many things to many people. For some, the day and occasion stirs up memories of loved ones that have fought and paid the ultimate sacrifice. For others, it’s a time to reflect on how fortunate we are as a country and as local communities, to live in a safe, happy and prosperous country.
This year, I’ll be marking Remembrance Day at RSL LifeCare’s ANZAC Village in Narrabeen – home to a large contingent of veterans. I feel honoured to have been invited to spend my first Remembrance Day as part of the RSL LifeCare team, alongside the Village’s veterans, residents and staff – and I’m sure many will have lifelong stories and memories to share.
It’s been a little over a month since I commenced as CEO of RSL LifeCare and in that time, I’ve been enormously impressed at the level of service, conversation and support that our staff provide to those in our care. It’s been particularly rewarding to see and hear first-hand the incredible work that our Veteran Services team carries out each day, delivering a multitude of programs and services that are provided to enhance the lives of veterans and their families.
From our Spur Equine program – designed by veterans, for veterans, to promote well-being and recovery, to our Veteran Wellbeing Centres that are funded and supported by our partner, RSL NSW – we recognise the importance of being there for our veterans as they transition from years of service to active members of local communities.
Remembering our brave servicemen and women on the 11th of November at 11:00 am is an occasion that will always be part of my life – as will Anzac Day and many other occasions throughout the year, when I pause and reflect on my own personal history with veterans and the armed services. My father served in the navy, my son was part of his cadet corp at school, and I’ve been an Army reservist – so I have some understanding of the service that thousands undertake every year, and an immense appreciation for the sacrifices that so many make.
RSL LifeCare has a long and proud history linked with Veteran Services and our organisation dates back over 100 years to when we first formed back in 1911. Our mission today remains as it was over a century ago – to serve, support and protect those in our care.
We will remember our veterans this Remembrance Day, and all who have served to protect our freedoms. Lest we forget.
