This Remembrance Month, we look back at our visit to Queenwood School that was earlier this year after ANZAC Day. As we remember the fallen this month, this school visit and the stories of the war widows and veteran spouses are important to be told, so we never forget the families left behind.
Queenwood students hear the stories of veteran spouses
As part of their Term 2 curriculum earlier this year, Year 3 students at Queenwood school embarked on a deeply moving exploration of the ANZAC tradition and the impact of historical conflicts like World War I, World War II, and the Vietnam War. To bring these lessons to life, the Families of Veterans Guild CEO Renee Wilson, along with war widows Shirley McLaren OAM and Lynne Boyd, shared their personal stories and experiences. Together, these remarkable women offered students a glimpse into life on the home front revealing the courage, resilience, and love that sustained families through some of history’s most challenging times. As we enter remembrance month, their visit takes on even greater significance, reminding us to honour not only the veterans but also the families whose sacrifices often go unseen.
The stories of different generations
Renee, Shirley, and Lynne each brought their unique experiences to the classroom, bridging the gap between generations with their stories. The students were eager to learn about how these women maintained contact with their loved ones during periods of conflict. Renee and Shirley shared their experiences of writing to their partners, albeit in very different eras. Shirley, as one of the first recruits of the Women’s Royal Australian Air Force (WRAAF), recounted how she made handwritten letters to her husband, which took months to reach him. In contrast, Renee spoke about sending emails, which allowed for instantaneous communication, a testament to the advancements in technology over the years. In this month of remembrance, these stories of love and connection underscore the importance of remembering those who served and the families who supported them.
Lynne provided a different narrative, reflecting on her life with her husband after his service, particularly focusing on the long-term impact of his exposure to Agent Orange during the Vietnam War. She also discussed the draft, shedding light on how conscription was used to bolster troop numbers during that period. Lynne’s personal connection to Queenwood was joined by the presence of her granddaughter, a Year 6 student at the school, who joined the session to listen to her grandmother’s story.
Shirley captivated the students with tales of her time in the WRAAF, sharing how she was the only one among her friends to meet the recruitment standards. She emphasised that determination and self-belief could lead them anywhere, inspiring the students to dream BIG and aim high in their future careers. Her message resonated with the students, who, so close to ANZAC Day at the time, reflected on the lasting legacy of courage and service.
Renee shared her modern-day perspective on being part of the veteran community, focusing on her husband Gary’s service and his subsequent accident. Her story resonated with the students, who were particularly interested in Gary’s journey of resilience and recovery. It was a powerful illustration of the strength and support that families provide to veterans, a message that resonates strongly as we say “We Remember” this month.
An unforgettable learning experience
The session was a memorable and educational experience for the students, who had many questions for the panel. Unfortunately, time constraints meant that not all questions could be answered, leaving the young learners eager for more. The presence of Families of Veterans Guild was warmly received, with even the School Principal joining the Year 3 students and teachers for the session.
The visit by the Families of Veterans Guild provided valuable perspective to the students studies, offering them a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by veterans and their families. The stories shared by Renee, Shirley, and Lynne highlighted the resilience and strength of those who serve and those who support them, making a lasting impact on the young minds at Queenwood School. Their words continue to resonate in this remembrance month, as we honour and remember the sacrifices that have shaped our history.
