ANZAC Day 2025 was a day of double significance for Navy veteran John Kent OAM, who was awarded Life Membership of the NSW Returned and Services League (RSL).
Mr Kent received the accolade at an Anzac Day luncheon held by the Nambucca Heads RSL sub-Branch.
Previously recognised with an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for his outstanding services to the broader community, Mr Kent has now been celebrated for his unwavering dedication to veterans.
“I am humbled and appreciative of this level of recognition and I thank everyone who has been a part of my journey in support of veterans and their families in the Nambucca Valley,” Mr Kent told News Of The Area.
Over the past 18 years, Mr Kent has tirelessly worked to support the welfare and needs of his fellow servicemen and women, becoming a champion of so many within the veteran community.
Awarding the Life Membership on such a significant day made the occasion even more meaningful.
The recognition reflects the immense respect and gratitude held for Mr Kent within both the RSL and the wider community.
Those attending the luncheon spoke warmly of John’s compassion, commitment, and humility, noting that his efforts have made a profound difference to the lives of many veterans and their families.
Nambucca Heads RSL sub-Branch President Denis Lane told NOTA, “His service to this sub-Branch embodies the values of the RSL.”
A former Senior Non Commissioned Officer in the Royal Australian Navy, Mr Kent recently stepped down as the Treasurer of the Nambucca Heads RSL sub-Branch.
During his tenure he, and the other members of the sub-Branch executive, were at the helm of the organisation over a period of significant change and dramatic modernisation of governance procedures.
By Mick BIRTLES
