SUPPORTING THE FAMILIES: Stephen Jones, Orange Legacy president John Howie, Tom Hogan and Knox O'Neil prepare for Legacy week. Photo: Jeff Death.
LEGACY is as important to the families of service personnel now as it was 50 years ago, according to Orange branch president John Howie.
It is a commitment that has been reinforced this week, following the deaths of five more Australian soldiers in Afghanistan.
Orange Legacy is preparing for its biggest fundraiser of the year next week, when collectors move through the city asking residents for donations to continue the important work of the organisation, which was formed after World War II.
While the Orange branch currently supports more than 220 widows, Mr Howie says the group receives enquiries every day from women needing support.
Knox O’Neill said the tragedy of the loss in Afghanistan this week was compounded by the number of casualties in the conflict so far.
“You don’t really hear much about it but there are 200 fellows who have been wounded,” he said.
“Many of them will never be able to return to the life they knew and so it is important to acknowledge their contribution as well, and Legacy can play a role in supporting them.”
Legacy volunteers will be selling fundraising merchandise in the central business district from Tuesday.
“We are extremely appreciative of the help we get from the students at Canobolas, Orange High and Kinross Wolaroi who do a great deal of work for us,” said Stephen Jones.
Mr Howie said Legacy was also enlisting the help of high school students to cover areas away from the CBD.
“The students will be going out with one of our Legacy members to Narrambla and Leewood as well,” he said.