Fred Abbott’s done a fair bit in his time with the Returned and Services League (RSL).
Since joining the Western Australian branch some 35 years ago, the ex-serviceman has spearheaded the construction of war memorials across the Peel region, helped form links between community groups and pitched in with work at local schools.
Now, Mr Abbott can call himself a life member of the RSL, following an official presentation at the RSL State Congress last Saturday, June 16.
Life membership is bestowed upon RSL members who have given an outstanding service to their community over an extended period of time, with Mr Abbott left humbled and honoured by the recognition.
“It’s a bit of an honour, really,” he said.
“You don’t see any of the community service or hours you put in as work, you see it as just looking after mates, so to be recognised with life membership is quite special to me.”
The former Borneo and Vietnam veteran retired and settled in Mandurah in 1999, and joined the Dawesville base shortly after he presented the sub-branch with its first charter.
He took the reins as president for a brief time in 2006, and eventually stepped into the role of secretary in 2011, which he still occupies today.
Mr Abbott sat on committees that saw to the construction of both the Mandurah and Dawesville war memorials, and has played a role in helping the sub-branch form a bond with the First Falcon Scout Group, which hold overnight vigils at the memorial on Anzac Day.
He has contributed in organising war heritage trips for local school students, and was presented with a Community Service Award by the City of Mandurah in 2016.
“I joined the RSL in Dawesville because I had so much spare time after retiring, but to be able to put that to good use in the community is what makes being part of the branch so special,” Mr Abbott said.
The Dawesville RSL is currently on the lookout for young ex-servicemen and women to join their ranks.
They meet on the second Monday of every month, at the Port Bouvard Recreation and Sporting Centre from 3.30pm.
For more information email dawesville.rsl@bigpond.com