Pictures and records of Lieutenant Martha Adeline Willey in her Australian Army Nursing Service uniform fill a special nook of the Beaudesert RSL Sub-Branch headquarters.
Lieutenant Willey, who served in the Nursing Corps during World War II, was the aunt of immediate past Sub-Branch President, the late Errol Guilfoyle.
Countless stories of locals like Lieutenant Willey will come to the forefront of people’s minds when Beaudesert pauses to reflect on Remembrance Day.
Current Sub-Branch President Carol Castles said Lieutenant Willey’s service was significant.
“To become a Lieutenant, as a woman, was a significant achievement. Women were not always recognised within the higher ranks,” she said.
“So, it was quite an honour for her and I’m quite sure it was her exemplary nursing in the field that earned her that distinguished title.”
Ms Castles said remembering stories of people like Lieutenant Willey was an important part of observing Remembrance Day.
“Lieutenant Willey’s family connection to Beaudesert was Mr Errol Guilfoyle, and it’s nice to remember Errol through that connection,” she said.
“Recently marking 100 years of the Beaudesert Cenotaph shows a continuing story of our township still commemorating those acts of service and sacrifice that have not been forgotten and are not likely to be forgotten.
“We should always remember the past, and it’s good to stop and reflect on what’s gone on before so we can make sure the future is better.”
As with all of Australia, Beaudesert will pause to observe one minute silence at 11am on 11 November, to remember those who died or suffered for Australia’s cause in all wars and armed conflicts.
Beaudesert RSL Sub-Branch will host its Remembrance Day service at Beaudesert Cenotaph at 11am, 11 November.
The Sub-Branch will also oversee a Remembrance Day service at Rathdowney at 11am, 11 November.
