PRESENT-day medics, doctors and nurses and the successors of Simpson’s donkey and horses from the battlefields of WW1 assembled in Sydney recently to launch the Reserve Forces Day 2003 program.

Marches and events will be held around the nation in July next year to celebrate the role Reserve Forces have played and continue to play in the defence of Australia and its national interests.

Minister Assisting the Minister for Defence Danna Vale said Reservists have been a significant and valued part of Australia’s military history.

“It is timely that next year we will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the medical and nursing corps,” she said.

“The recent events in Bali have brought home to us the importance of the specialist medical skills held by many members of the ADF Reserves – in fact, several of the personnel who played such a critical role in evacuating our fellow Australians were Reservists.”

She said in conjunction with Reserve Forces Day activities, Defence would also conduct the Defence Reserves Program 2003 – a national series of community events highlighting the important role played by Reservists.

“Given that the Government expects the Reserves to provide an effective and capable force, it is vital that the merit and value of Reserve service be promoted to the public wherever and whenever possible.”

Chairman of the National and NSW Reserve Forces Day Councils, Sir Laurence Street, said the Reserve Forces have had a proud and glorious history.

“This tradition carries on today with more than 39,000 members of the Defence Reserves continuing to serve with distinction,” he said.

“It is important that the Australian community continues to support current-serving members and those who have already made their contribution to the defence of our nation.”

Through Federal Government initiatives, such as the Employer Support Program, more than 430 NSW employers are receiving support and financial assistance to allow Reservists to continue their role in the ADF.

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