The families of soldiers killed or disabled, physically or mentally, while in armed service have taken to the streets over the past week to raise money for Legacy.
Sunbury Widows Club secretary June Clark, 87, was among those who turned out for this year’s appeal, which runs until Saturday.
Clubs and organisations around Australia sell the iconic Legacy badges that will be worn on Badge Day this Friday.
Legacy was formed in 1942 and raises money to support some 80,000 widows and 1800 children and people with disabilities Australia-wide, offering help for essential services, such as counselling, special housing, medical aides, advocacy and social support.
Mrs Clark says Legacy Week is not a celebration for her family, but a day to remember her husband, Wallace Clark, who died in 1999 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.
Mr Clark was a chief steward in the Australian navy, serving on the HMAS Moresby from 1942 until 1945.
“He was a very caring man,” Mrs Clark says.
“We were married in 1951, and had three children, Ramon, Michelle and Andrew.
“The legacy that my husband left behind lives on in our six grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.”
The long-time Sunbury resident says she joined the widows’ club for the camaraderie.
“We have a lot of lovely women in the club, who have all been in similar situations,” Mrs Clark said.
“Our men never spoke much about their service.
“Our club is very active, most of us are in our 80s, and some of the husbands served in Vietnam.
“It gives us a chance to have companionship and raise money for Legacy to support other families like ours.”
Sunbury Widows Club was out selling Legacy badges in Sunbury Square last Sunday in readiness for Badge Day on Friday.
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