The Dubbo community came together on Remembrance Day, to remember those who lost their lives, or were affected by the brutality of war during their time serving in the Australian Armed forces.
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A ceremony was held at Victoria Park where those in attendance shared a minutes silence at 11:00 am before the laying of wreaths on the war memorial.
One Dubbo couple Oliver "Ollie" and Elizabeth "Beth" Ireland, were amongst those paying their respects in Dubbo.
The couple has been married for 64 years, and Monday was the 40th ceremony they have attended together. Like many people, Remembrance Day holds personal significance for them.
Mr Ireland served in the Australian Air Force for several years while Elizabeth raised their two children on her own, at times not knowing what country her husband was based in or if he was even still alive.
"They sent me to Thailand, and they didn't tell her where we were for three weeks, and she had two young kids to raise on her own," Mr Ireland said.
"I came home and then got sent back off to Vietnam, and once again, Beth was left to raise the children on her own in South Australia. She saw them through their primary years, and she did a remarkable job, they're both doctors, they have their mother to thank for that.
"What a remarkable woman, she's my best mate and always will be.
"I flew for Qantas after I left the airforce we have lived here since 1981, my wife had a nursery in Dubbo."
Mrs Ireland said it was an extremely worrying time during her life; not knowing where her husband was or if he was alive or not.
Mr Ireland said the wives of soldiers deserve the same recognition as the men who fought.
"We had to fight a war and leave our wives to raise our children," he said.
"These ladies deserve the same medals these men do because they went through it too."
Mr Ireland said the love he and his wife have for one another that got them through the hard times.
"I think we have a love that's unique in this day and age. It's just that we love each other so much and we always will. Now she's not well, and I have to take care of her, it's a privilege to get to take care of her."
Mr and Mrs Ireland met thanks to Mr Ireland's mother, and according to him, it was love at first sight.
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"My mother ran the Country Women's Association in Moree, and I was the only male who was allowed to stay there," he said.
"I went home for Christmas and stayed there, and there she was, doing her ironing.
"I stopped and said; 'hello', and she said; 'g'day' and that was it. Our connection was instantaneous, and we've been together ever since. We've been together now for 66 years and married for 64."
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Taylor Dodge
Your story matters, your voice deserves to be heard and I would love to help you share it. I have five years of experience as a Journalist with Australian Community Media covering an array of topics, with a key focus on breaking news and crime and a passion for people. E: taylor.dodge@austcommunitymedia.com.au.
Your story matters, your voice deserves to be heard and I would love to help you share it. I have five years of experience as a Journalist with Australian Community Media covering an array of topics, with a key focus on breaking news and crime and a passion for people. E: taylor.dodge@austcommunitymedia.com.au.
