Although men are very welcome into the RSL Auxiliary, it is still predominantly women. Our president, Heather Whittaker, is not only a war widow but also Leeton's only surviving World War II veteran, having served in the Women's Auxiliary Australian Air Force.
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Heather will be attending the second Honouring Women United by Defence Service event on August 14. It was first held last year as part of the end of the Centenary of ANZAC celebrations.
The event will commemorate all women whose lives have been impacted by service by bringing together women who are widowed as a result of their partner's service, who are currently serving or ex-serving members of the Australian Defence Force, and women and their families whose lives have been impacted as a result of service - mothers, spouses, sisters and children.
The gathering marks the significant collaboration of the War Widows' Guild of Australia, Legacy, RSL and Auxiliaries, TPI Association, Women Veterans Network Australia, Department of Veterans' Affairs, representatives of the Australian Defence Force, and Partners of Veterans Association, who are committed to ensuring a stronger voice for all women united by defence service.
The event begins with the Last Post Ceremony at the Australian War Memorial. This wreath-laying service will be dedicated to the service and sacrifice of women veterans. It will then be followed by a special Honouring Women and Families United by Defence Service dinner to be held at Parliament House. Very excited for our Heather to be representing our Leeton women.
