EX-SERVICE women will take the lead in this year’s Mount Gambier Anzac Day march in support of the “By the Left” movement, ensuring servicewomen are better recognised by all Australians.
Over the years the movement gained momentum when female veterans complained they had been asked to transfer their service medals from the left side of their jackets – where entitled people wear medals they have earned – to the right side.
It was assumed by some they were incorrectly wearing their husband’s or father’s medals.
The movement was also supported by women, like many men, who did not deploy due to where and when they were serving.
Retired Royal Australian Navy Commander Sandy Coulson said many women who served before 1990 were not permitted to serve in combat positions or areas of conflict due to government policy.
“In the case of women serving in the 1960s and early 70s they were forced to give up their military careers when married or having children,” Ms Coulson said.
This year, across many cities and towns around the country, women will proudly lead Anzac Day marches with the support of the Returned and Services League, the Women’s Veterans Network Australia and ex-servicewomen’s associations.
Mount Gambier RSL president Bob Sandow said the RSL fully backed the movement and encouraged all ex-service women living locally or visiting to take up the invitation and have their service acknowledged by the community.
“Mr Sandow and the RSL’s decision is great recognition of ex-servicewomen who call Mount Gambier and district home, some who have never marched on Anzac Day as they do not have many medals and do not feel entitled to do so,” Ms Coulson said.
“The ladies will be placed behind the dignities and in front of the World War II servicemen,” Mr Sandow said.
“We are encouraging women to join, regardless of how long they have served or how many medals they have.”
Ms Coulson said no women in Mount Gambier had recalled being approached in regard to the side their medals were worn, but still wish to support those who have had bad experiences.
