Between 1951 and 1972 a total of 287,000 young Australian men were called up in two separate schemes for compulsory training in the navy, army and air force.
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From this group more than 210 who were engaged in active service were killed in either in Borneo or Vietnam.
Back then National Service was part of Australia’s defence preparedness.
In 1951 the first post World War II National Servicemen marched into Holsworthy and Bardia barracks to the 12th, 13th and 19th battalions.
The National Servicemen’s Association was formed in Sydney 1995 by a group who felt the men who served their time were not being recognised for their efforts by the Australian Government and the RSL at the time.
This group, due to their tenacity, has been rewarded by seeing nashos being awarded the Australian Defence Medal and the Anniversary of National Service Medal.
Also, the nashos have been permitted to join official services and march on Anzac Day wearing their uniform with pride.
The Returned Services League changed its name to Returned and Services League, which enabled ex-military personnel who served at home in a supporting role to join as service members.
In 1997 the Great Lakes sub-branch was formed and the group received its charter the following year.
Initially Great Lakes members who attended meetings came from surrounding districts and Newcastle, Taree and Port Macquarie.
Due to the distance they travelled it had been suggested by the sitting committee that they form sub-branches for their own respective areas which they did and most are still active today.
Some of our members who were part of that inaugural crew are still with the sub-branch as members and continue to serve the committee.
We have a good relationship with each other as a group, all enjoying the social outings and activities organised by our social secretary and her assistants.
Members also spend time working with each other volunteering for the community.
Our membership consists of both men and women who have completed military service or affiliated service, is a family member of a service person.
Great-Lakes sub-branch membership is strong albeit the average age of the members is heading toward the late 70s.
The sub-branch says that if people are moving to or visiting our area to come on the second Friday of the month to the Forster Bowling Club auditorium from 10am for a friendly chat and to participate in our meeting.
We have a barbecue lunch or morning tea at some meetings, our visitors would have a pleasant surprise if they called in on one of those.
If you are interested and would like to know more about our association or membership contact our secretary Bob Russell 6555 3274 or view our web space at Great Lakes nashos
This year commemorates the 65th anniversary of National Service; some members will travel to Sydney to attend a special service at Holsworthy on August 7.
It has also been proposed to hold a small service at the Darawank Memorial Park. If this eventuates we will advertise the information.