FOR most people, ANZAC Day is a day for reflection, a day to remember the sacrifices of servicemen and women who played a part in campaigns fought around the world over the course of history.

For the children of serving defence members, the day holds a special extra sentiment as they not only deal with the absence of a parent, but also the concerns associated with deployment.

News Of The Area met with some of these very special children as they recounted their experiences.

One Defence wife spoke to News Of The Area about her husband being deployed, and how their children have been coping, coming up to ANZAC Day.

“My husband is currently deployed with the RAAF for six-and-a-half months to the Middle East.”

The couple have three children, aged five, four and eight months,

When asked about their Dad, the eldest children, Jack and Georgia, said they wanted to tell him, “We can’t wait for Charlie’s first birthday because it means you will be home, we miss you Daddy.”

Their father is due home the week Charlie turns one.

Their mother sends this message: “Come home safe, we love you.”

Carmen, mum to Charlie, Jackson and William, said, “My husband is currently away on deployment overseas for the next seven months, so he misses most birthdays and other important events or milestones in our family life with our boys.”

“We love him so much and are very proud of what he does and what he has given up for us.”

“Without the help of some amazing friends and people within the Medowie community we would be lost,” she said.

Sisters Emily and Ashleigh also shared their thoughts with News Of The Area.

Emily, six, said “I am sad when Dadda is away because I miss him so much, but I am so glad he can help others and keep us all safe.”

Ashleigh, nine, said “It makes me sad to see him leave us for long trips but I am really proud of the work he is doing helping others and protecting us.”

Sam, mother to Michael and Olivia, told News Of The Area, “The sacrifices my husband makes such as missing milestones, time with the kids and just being away in general say so much about the type of person he is. He wants the best for his family and for that we will always be thankful.”

News Of The Area sends a heartfelt thank you to all current and past members of our Defence forces.

 

* For the safety of serving members and their families, News Of The Area has used children’s first names without reference to serving parents’ personal or deployment details.

By Rachael VAUGHAN