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Proserpine RSL President Dave Clifford and Treasurer Brian Dunlop present Peter Jameljanenko with his certificate recognising 30 years of service to the Proserpine RSL. Photo supplied
Proserpine RSL member Peter Jameljanenko has been recognised for 30 years of dedicated service to the organisation.
Peter was presented with a certificate marking the milestone by Proserpine RSL President Dave Clifford and Treasurer Brian Dunlop.
Peter’s own military service began when he was called up for National Service on September 26th 1972. He completed his basic training in Singleton, New South Wales, before being based at Enoggera in Queensland. He later went on to participate in Tropical Trials in Innisfail.
Looking back, Peter remembers the experience as a major change in his life, but one he ultimately embraced.
“It was a big change and I enjoyed it,” Peter said.
His commitment was put to the test only months after he entered the National Service, when the Whitlam Government abolished the scheme in December 1972 and servicemen were given the choice to leave.
“They were given the option of either staying in or getting out, and I stayed in,” he said.
Peter originally joined the RSL for a chance at fellowship, wanting to be surrounded by the people who understood the commitment and toll being a service member had.
“I joined the RSL to be a part of something and have somebody to talk to, people that recognize what you've been through,” Peter said.
During his 30 years with the Proserpine RSL, Peter has taken on a number of roles, including serving as treasurer, while also becoming a familiar face at the town’s ANZAC Day commemorations. For many years, he has served as marshal and led the annual ANZAC Day march through Proserpine.
“It made me proud,” Peter said.
When asked about the future of the RSL, Peter said he would like to see changes both within the organisation and at a government level to ensure veterans continue to receive the support they need, particularly raising concerns about medical expenses from the DVA being capped at $5,000.
“$5,000 gets you nothing,” Peter said.
For Peter, much of that comes down to ensuring today’s veterans can find the same support and camaraderie that first drew him to the RSL 30 years ago.
“The way it is now, I wouldn't recommend it to anybody,” he said.
“They promise the world and give you nothing.”
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