Anzac spirit: Veteran ‘close to tears’ over kids’ kindness

The secretary of the Geraldton branch of the RSL said she was “close to tears” after a Strathalbyn Christian College staff member dropped off a package containing dozens of handmade cards. The cards were made last week by students with heartfelt messages paying respect to retired service members and wishing them well during the current COVID-19 pandemic. RSL secretary April Herbert, a veteran herself, said she was touched to receive the messages and promised to pass them along to RSL members. “I’m so impressed that these school children are being raised to recognise veterans and the price people pay in service of this country,” she said. “It was lovely to receive this package and I’m sure our RSL members will love to read the messages.” Strathalbyn Christian College principal Gavin Hirschhausen said he was very proud of the students for thinking about the RSL members, and making cards for them. He said students were very sad to hear Anzac Day services had been cancelled and the students felt it was important to let veterans know they were not forgotten. “The college always encourages students to serve others, and making cards is a lovely way to show support to the RSL members at this difficult time,” he said. “We look forward to being able to have an Anzac assembly in 2021.” The Geraldton RSL club has recently had to shut the club bar down and suspend meetings due to the elevated risk their older members face from the COVID-19 pandemic.