Veteran starts social club
World War Two veteran Horrie Young has started a "World War Two Armed Services Social Club" for Peninsula ex-servicemen.
The society is only open to those who served in the armed forces from September 3, 1939, to August 15, 1945.
Mr Young said he got the idea from a similar group that used to operate exclusively for World War One veterans.
"I used to get a great kick out of their stories, and they appreciated the attention.
"And those World War Two vets who were the minders are now starting to reach their 80s and 90s and need a similar service."
Mr Young said it was very hard for him and other World War Two veterans to relate to their fellow servicemen from other wars.
He said the servicemen from wars of the modern era such as Vietnam and the Gulf war have very different experiences to those of World War Two veterans.
"They were different kinds of wars," he said.
"The servicemen don't speak the same language as we do, and I'm sure they're sitting next to us thinking 'what do I talk to this old bloke about?'
"Naturally it is recognised that there exists a common thread among the veterans of all wars, but it can't be denied that veterans, generally are more at home when associating with people of their own particular conflict."
Mr Young said he saw many isolated elderly World War Two veterans and wanted to do something for them.
"It's tragic when you see them roaming around Deepwater Plaza.
"Their wives have pre-deceased them and they don't see their kids much any more.
"I just thought we'll try and see if we can do something for these poor old devils.
"The Peninsula has a high concentration of ex-servicemen and organisations for them, but I wasn't happy with the direction a lot of them take.
"RSL Sub-branches particular roles are primarily pitched to defending veterans rights and pensions."
Mr Young said the proposed society would be a more social one, giving WW2 veterans the opportunity renew old acquaintances and discuss war memories.
The society will hold excursions and a luncheon every two months, using a bus supplied Woy Woy-Ettalong-Hardy's Bay RSL Sub-Branch.
With membership enquiries, phone the secretary of RSL Sub-Branch, Mr Jack Carney, on 4341 2594 or Mr Young on 4322 5645.
Alison Branley, July 8