By Alesha Capone
For Lyle Raison, it is important to treasure the names of all Wyndham residents who have served in past and present wars and armed conflicts.
Mr Raison helps to look after the memorabilia on display at the Werribee RSL sub-branch.
“I do it to help future generations and hope that they don’t forget,” Mr Raison said.
As part of the display, Mr Raison has put together an ‘“Australian Women at War” gallery, including photos of women serving in World Wars I and II, in Vietnam, Iraq and Afghanistan.
The photos include local female cadets and Catherine “Kitty” McNaughton from Little River. She served as a nurse in World War I.
A photo of Mr Raison’s wife, Pam, who served in the army for 28 years and became a lieutenant-colonel, is also among the images.
Mr Raison, who spent 38 years in the army, said veterans had different experiences of war.
“When they reflect back, they reflect on different things – it’s important for the public to understand that,” he said. “That’s why they like to be with their mates on Anzac Day.
“Anzac Day, to me, isn’t about medals or anything – it’s about spending time with my mates and reflecting on those who died.”
The Werribee RSL sub-branch will hold an Anzac Day dawn service on Thursday, April 25, from 6.30am at the cenotaph at the corner of Station Place and Watton Street, Werribee. All residents are invited.
Vehicle movements and some parking areas will be restricted on the day. Watton Street, between Bridge Street and Comben Drive, will be closed from 4am-7.30am. The Station Place roadway and parking areas will be closed for the same period.
