Flag of remembrance

By Lia Bichel
RESIDENTS at Langford Grange Nursing Home remembered fallen soldiers and honoured their country in a special ceremony and flag presentation on Monday.
The residents gathered to witness MP Jude Perera present a Victorian flag to nursing home manager Coral Davies, before attending a service hosted by the local RSL.
“It was a very special event,” said the nursing homes divisional therapist and activities coordinator Jenny Hamilton.
“Remembrance Day is always a big day here. Many of the residents fought in the war or have family members who fought in World War One or World War Two.”
Members from the RSL hosted the service at the nursing home on Monday because RSL members conducted the annual service in Cranbourne on Tuesday.
“We always have a service for the nursing home,” said RSL President Barry Jones. “It is important to them and it is important to us that we support the local seniors.”
Ms Hamilton said the residents were grateful that the annual service was held in the nursing home each year, and said she was moved by their reaction and to this year’s flag presentation.
“It amazes me how a lot of residents have decreased mobility but still manage to push themselves to stand up in honour,” she said. “It’s moving.”
Ms Hamilton said, though the residents appreciated the flag, the next goal was to get a flagpole, but it might be a bumpy process.
“It’s difficult for aged homes to receive one. Apparently it is very expensive,” Ms Hamilton said.
“If we don’t receive one from the State Government, I will be writing a letter to the federal minister in hopes that we get one.”
Ms Hamilton said she hoped that Langford Grange Nursing Home had a flagpole by Anzac Day. “The residents would be so proud to fly the flag.”