August was a busy month for the Capricornia and Rockhampton Region RSL Subbranch Inc (soon to have a name change to RSL Rockhampton Subbranch Inc).
It started with the Vietnam Vigil where four Rockhampton Region defence forces members lost their lives serving in Vietnam (James George Cox, Kevin John Prior, Alan Clarence Bloxom and Anthony Lisle).
A vigil was held at the Rockhampton Crematorium for James, Kevin and Alan by the Capricornia RSL whilst Gracemere RSL conducted the service for Anthony at the Rockhampton Cemetery. Yeppoon also conducted a service for a fifth, Noel Stuart Harald
On 18 August, the Vietnam Veterans Day was held at Cockscomb where a wreath was laid by Rawdon Dundas-Taylor on behalf of PFH RSL District (now renamed as RSL Central Queensland District) and a further wreath was laid by Deb Harris and Rawdon Dundas-Taylor on behalf of the Capricornia and Rockhampton RSL Ladies Auxiliary. The day was a well-attended reflecting the significance of the occasion.
On 19 August the Capricornia and Gracemere RSLs combined to host a Vietnam Veterans Dinner held at the Leagues Club.
The three course meal was enjoyed by all and a drinks tab was put on by the National Serviceman’s’ association, matched by Capricornia RSL and also a mysterious generous unknown benefactor who topped up the tab that lasted the evening. Apart from the official service and the comradery, the highlight of the evening was the presentation by the guest speaker, Alan (Jack) Parr GM, OAM (the Medal for Gallantry was presented to Jack on the day before at a presentation in Rockhampton). Jack’s presentation rekindled memories of those who served in Vietnam and reminded us all of the fact that they were sent there by the government of the day and that the veterans represented our nation in the manner of past veterans in conflicts around the world.
On 20 August, Capricornia and Rockhampton Regional RSL Inc held its bi-monthly general meeting. It was attended by 30 service and non-league members. Business included motions to establish an emergency assistance program to assist members as DVA appears to be overstretched. Another motion was to refurbish medals of our Koreon (1952)and Malaya (1957) veterans’ medals.
Remembrance day activities were also discussed. Memorability stalls will be held prior to the day at shopping centres and Bunnings. A Remembrance Day service will held at the Frenchville Sports Club commencing at 10.40am on the 11th of the 11th month.
As Remembrance Day falls on a Saturday this year, many of the local schools will be approached to see if they are interested in sending school captains to attend. This will be a special occasion as the Frenchville Sports Club have notified us that work on the relocation of the “Lest WE Forget” wall to a more suitable location has already commenced and will be operational for Remembrance Day.
Frenchville Sports Cub has also advised there will be an opening service prior to the day.
On 9 September Gracemere RSL hosted a lunch at the Frenchville Sports Club to commemorate 100 years of Legacy, with the proceeds going to the Rockhampton War Museum and Legacy.
