Fed: Dig deep for Legacy, urges veterans affairs minister

AAP General News (Australia)
08-31-2009
Fed: Dig deep for Legacy, urges veterans affairs minister

Eds: Clarifies in 4th par that the governor-general launched Legacy Week on Monday,
not Tuesday as sent



CANBERRA, Aug 31 AAP - Veterans Affairs Minister Alan Griffin has urged Australians
to dig deep for Legacy this week.

Mr Griffin said Legacy's annual national fundraising week, which runs from August 30
to September 5, was an opportunity for Australians to support a worthy cause which had
helped defence families cope with life after the loss of a loved one since 1923.

"I encourage Australians to buy a badge during Legacy Week and support an organisation
providing invaluable support to the families of Australian Defence Force personnel who
have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country," he said in a statement.

Legacy Week was launched in Sydney on Monday with a Remembrance Ceremony attended by
the Governor-General Quentin Bryce, Defence head Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston plus
representatives of Legacy, widows and their families.

Mr Griffin said Legacy was a non-profit organisation established by the ex-service
community in 1923 to support and care for the families of those lost in war.

He said Legacy supported more than 115,000 war widows from both World Wars, Korea and
Vietnam as well as the families of those who have lost a parent or partner in more recent
deployments.

"Legacy representatives are often among the first people to approach grieving families
after the loss of a loved one and their support and guidance are vital during these difficult
times," he said.

Kicking off Legacy week, Telstra announced longterm national sponsorship through provision
of financial assistance and telecommunications services for families of fallen Australian
Defence Force members.

Telstra chief executive David Thodey said this reflected the company's commitment to
providing practical support for Australians in times of need.

"This Telstra sponsorship is our way of keeping the promise to do what we can to help
support families that have sacrificed so much for our great country," he said in a statement.

Legacy chairman David Kelly said this would enable Legacy to provide support services
to help overcome social isolation for many elderly widows as well as to connect our young
people.

"It will also enable this geographically diverse organisation which is run by volunteers,
to engage with each other and share information in a more meaningful and regular way using
telecommunications," he said.

AAP mb/maur/apm

KEYWORD: LEGACY (REISSUING)

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