Forty-one and 26 are numbers Glenn Kolomeitz wants people to think about on Anzac Day.
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Forty-one Australians died in our most recent conflict in Afghanistan and 26 young Australian veterans have died by suicide this year alone, Mr Kolomeitz said.
As many reflected on past conflicts, the chief executive of RSL NSW and Gerringong RSL sub-branch president urged people to also consider more recent times.
The obligation to “look after our mates and the families of our mates” was also important, Mr Kolomeitz said.
“We commemorate the fallen but we must, we must, work with the government and the bureaucracy to not just commemorate,” he said, following an Anzac Day service at the Gerroa Boat Fisherman’s Club.
“Today’s a very commemorative day, but we must also make sure we adequately cater to the mental and physical health needs of our veterans and their families."
Mr Kolomeitz said mental and physical injuries were “quite a prevalent issue”, adding it was important he spoke to people about their obligation to support serving and ex-serving members.
Lifeline: 13 11 14