Ron Irwin was awarded life membership to the Wingham RSL Sub-branch at the sub-branch’s October meeting.
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State councillor Ray James travelled to Wingham to surprise Ron with the award.
“I knew Ray when he was 16 years of age,” Ron said. “He was a trainee over at Leeuwin when I was over there on staff. So I’ve known him since 52 years ago.”
Ron served in the Royal Australian Navy for 35 years and has been a member of RSL since 1974.
He has been a member of the Wingham sub-branch 16 years, and for the past 14 years has always held an executive position on the committee, as secretary, vice president, and president.
Ron holds the position of the sub-branch’s school liaison officer, a position he created. He also does funeral tributes for the sub-branch.
“Ron has been a very active stalwart of the RSL for many years,” Terry Gould, Wingham RSL Sub-branch president said.
“His concern and compassion for veterans and their families, coupled with his enthusiastic liaison with local schools and youth, has been outstanding.”
Ron said he was proud to accept the award.
“I accepted the life membership in the spirit that it was offered. I certainly haven’t done anything looking for a life membership,” he said.
“I’d like to dedicate this life membership to my father, and a few people will know why. It’s pretty important to me.”