Honouring war widows nationally
National War Widows Day on October 19 is the day to reflect and honour the sacrifice war widows have endured, and the legacy they carry on.
CAPTION: Members of Australian War Widows Inc. commemorate War Widows Day in 2023. Story by Hannah Donald.
While War Widows Day was previously held in some states and territories throughout Australia, this year marked the first national event, allowing for women across the country to come together.
October 19 marks the birthday of the War Widows Guild’s founder, Jessie Vasey, who formed the guild 78 years ago, changing the lives of other women and families who had lost husbands and fathers to war.
National President of Australian War Widows Jenny Gregory said this special day brought awareness to the sacrifices and grief of war that Defence widows have faced.
“It brings awareness to the widows themselves, of the large network of resources and assistance that is available to them. War and Defence widows are the resilient legacy of their service member’s sacrifice for the nation,” Ms Gregory said.
“War Widows Day also honours those loved ones who willingly fought, served and gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country.”
Defence Member and Family Support (DMFS) Director General Libby Cremen said National War Widows Day was a time to reflect on the important and valuable role Defence families play within the ADF.
As a branch of Defence, DMFS provides support, information and connection to community 24/7 to assist families to manage the military way of life.
“There is a large network of resources and help available for Defence members and their families,” Ms Cremen said.
“DMFS helps ADF personnel and their families access the network of supports available, including services provided both internal and external to Defence.”
To find out more about National War Widow events in your area or to learn about ways you can support war widows, visit Australian War Widows Inc.
Contact DMFS for access to support services and resources at ADF Members & Families or call the 24/7 helpline on 1800 624 608.
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