MUSWELLBROOK duo Ian Hilder and Henry “Harry” Yonge could not be any prouder.
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In recent months, the Upper Hunter sub-Branch of the National Servicemen’s Association (Nashos) presented the pair with Life Membership badges for their services to the organisation over the past 20 years.
And, Mr Hilder, 80, and Mr Yonge, 83, were delighted to receive the award from local president Malcolm Frame.
“To be honest, we’re honoured,” they both admitted.
“We’re very mindful of what it means,” Mr Hilder added.
“We’re doing something we think is worthwhile – and that’s raising money for numerous charities.
“Over the years, we’ve handed over money to hospital auxiliaries in Muswellbrook, Singleton and Scone; the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Services; TransCare, NSW Ambulance service and many more.”
While Mr Yonge was thrilled to collect his badge, he also expressed some sorrow.
“My twin brother, Fred, died five years ago,” he admitted.
“It’s a shame he isn’t here [today] to receive one, too.”
The National Servicemen's Association of Australia was founded in 1987 and is now the second largest ex-service organisation in the nation.
It represents the 287,000 young men called up for service in the Navy, Army and Air Force in two schemes between 1951 and 1972.
The association's objectives are to promote the health and welfare of National Servicemen; to represent them to government, the community and the media; to record the history of National Service and its role in Australia's defence effort; to provide a National Servicemen's perspective on defence and community issues; to build and maintain Memorials to National Servicemen who died on active service and those who have died since; to participate in community, Armed Services and NSAA commemorations and parades; to promote educational programs about National Service in schools and in the community and to encourage social interaction between National Servicemen and with the wider defence general communities.
“Unfortunately, the Upper Hunter numbers have dropped,” Mr Hilder said.
“Our president [Malcolm Frame] resides in Merriwa, while other members live in Singleton and Muswellbrook.
“But, we love what we do.
“And, we were overjoyed to see the big crowd at the Muswellbrook Anzac Day service last month.”