By Sonia Isaacs
BEERWAH veteran Don Griffin is urging the community to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made by Australia’s servicemen and women, emphasising the deeper meaning of Remembrance Day.
Don enlisted in the Australian Army in 1978, beginning a career that spanned both the regular Army and Army Reserve.
Over the years, he served in multiple units across Australia and overseas, including postings in Brisbane, Townsville, and two tours to Timor, before concluding his service in 2013.
“Remembrance Day is about more than ceremony,” Don said. “It’s about thinking of the soldiers in the First World War, Second World War, and other conflicts, and the sacrifices they made for our country.”
He reflected on the profound impact of war on small Australian towns and communities. “When you see little towns with remembrance walls, you realise the huge loss suffered when their young people went to war and never returned. Some towns lost a third of their young men. It’s for them that we remember, for those who paid the supreme sacrifice.”
For Don, these reflections are not limited to November. “I think about them every day,” he said. “You see something, and it reminds you of that.”
Now an active member of the Glass House RSL chapter, Don emphasised that Remembrance Day also strengthens connections among veterans. “People want to talk to those who understand what they went through. Support networks like the RSL help veterans share both the challenges and pride of their service,” he said.
He also highlighted the critical role of support organisations for younger veterans transitioning to civilian life.
“A lot of younger veterans just want to get away from it, but there are mates and organisations that can help, such as Mates4Mates. The RSLs are always there for anyone who needs them,” he said.
Despite his long and distinguished service, Don does not seek recognition
“We don’t want people to give us a pat on the back or feel sorry for us. We did what we did; I’m proud of that,” he said.
At the heart of his experience is the enduring bond of mateship, a cornerstone of military life.
“There’s always someone beside you. If something goes wrong, it’s not like everyone deserts you.
You know there’s always someone who’s got your back. You deal with it, and move on – there’s no good sitting back mulling over it,” he said.
For Don and his fellow veterans, Remembrance Day is more than a date on the calendar.
It is a time to honour service, acknowledge sacrifice, and reinforce the bonds forged through decades of shared commitment.
“It’s about remembering those who came before us, supporting those who serve now, and ensuring the spirit of mateship and service continues,” Don said. “I hope the community embraces that message, not just on Remembrance Day, but every day.”
Through his words, Don encourages the Beerwah community to see Remembrance Day as a moment to pause, reflect, and connect – and to acknowledge the sacrifices of the past while supporting those who continue to serve today.
