SUPPORTING the families of defence force servicemen and women, the Limestone Coast community pitched in last week to support the annual Legacy Badge Day.
Legacy members, cadets and generous locals spent the day selling the unique badges, teddy bears and other merchandise across the region to help those who have suffered from the loss of a loved one.
The organisation originally formed after World War I now cares for around 65,000 widows and widowers and 1800 children and disabled dependents across the country, with all sharing the heartache of losing someone either physically or mentally.
Widows Valda Becker and Gwen Lamb are dedicated members of Legacy and on Friday set up a stall at the Mount Gambier Central shopping centre.
“Legacy Badge Day is very important to all of us, especially as all of our ladies and gentlemen get older,” Ms Lamb said.
“The first time I went to an Anzac Day ceremony when I was at school I saw some of the students go up and lay a wreath and I thought I would love to do that one day – now I have been involved with Legacy for 50 years and a widow for 20.
“It is such an important organisation that helps so many people and while there are not many people serving overseas at the moment, there are still lots of veterans and their families living in the region.”
Mount Gambier resident Heather McKaskill and her son are just two of those people who have received support from Legacy over the years.
“The organisation has helped us tremendously, the legatees would take him to outings regularly and helped with his schooling,” Ms McKaskill said.
“They do a fantastic job and we are very grateful for their support.”
