Lest We Forget - RSL 

Orange Class Visits Epping RSL

On Tuesday 20 October, Orange Class visited the Epping RSL for an engaging and thought-provoking excursion. Throughout the day, students learned about Australian military history, the significance of remembrance, and what life is really like for those who serve in the armed forces.

Exploring Military History

The visit began with a talk by RSL volunteer and returned soldier Peter, in front of a Leopard tank displayed at the RSL. Students learned that the Australian Army operated the Leopard AS1 Main Battle Tank, an Australian-modified version of the German Leopard 1. Introduced during the 1970s, the Leopard AS1 served as Australia's primary battle tank throughout the 1990s and into the early 2000s. Peter explained how military technology has evolved over time, with the Leopard eventually being replaced by the American Abrams tank. Students also discovered how today's M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams tanks use advanced electronics, sensors and battlefield communication systems that would have seemed unimaginable to previous generations of soldiers.

Peter also discussed how warfare has changed significantly over the decades. Modern conflicts increasingly rely on technology, intelligence gathering and communication systems, while still demanding courage and resilience from the soldiers who serve.

The Cenotaph and Avenue of Honour

Students then visited the Cenotaph and the Avenue of Honour, where they learned about the importance of remembrance. RSL volunteer, Frank explained that a cenotaph is an "empty tomb" that honours those who died in service, but whose remains are buried elsewhere or who never returned home.

As students viewed the plaques bearing the names of local men and women who served in various conflicts, they reflected on the sacrifices made by past generations. He helped students understand the difference between the words commemorate and celebrate. While we celebrate achievements and special occasions, we commemorate people and events to remember, honour and reflect on their significance.

What It's Like to Be a Soldier

Perhaps the most memorable part of the visit was hearing Peter speak about his own military career. While students enjoyed hot chips and chilled water, he shared stories from his decades of service in the Australian Army.

Having risen to the rank of Sergeant and earned numerous decorations, he described the physical and emotional demands of military life. He spoke about being deployed to extremely challenging environments, from the scorching heat of the desert to winter conditions in Afghanistan where temperatures could fall below minus ten degrees.

Peter explained that movies often fail to capture the reality of war. He spoke honestly about the stress, danger and destruction that soldiers witness, and how these experiences can have lasting impacts, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Students were particularly interested in his medal displayed across the right side of chest. Representing deployments and service in places including Iraq, the Sahara and Afghanistan.

Students were amazed to learn that soldiers can carry equipment weighing around 55 kilograms, including protective gear, weapons, ammunition and other essential supplies.

A Lasting Message

Before concluding the visit, Peter and Frank left students with some powerful words of advice, encouraging them to make the most of the opportunities available to them and to appreciate the freedoms and quality of life they enjoy today.

He reminded students that many soldiers sacrificed greatly to protect the society we live in, which is why we continue to honour their service and remember their contributions. His message helped students understand the significance of the phrase:

"Lest We Forget."

The excursion was an enjoyable and educational experience that gave Orange Class valuable insight into Australia's military history and the importance of remembering those who served our nation.

-Margaret Cam