![\"\"](\"https:\/\/timesnewsgroup.com.au\/surfcoasttimes\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2021\/09\/Australiansonoperat_39562-1.jpg?_t=1631235172\")
Australians on operations in Afghanistan. Photo: DEFENCE IMAGES<\/span><\/p>\n\u201cWe must never forget the 41 Australians who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country,\u201d Mr Gee said. \u201cI understand many of those who served our nation in Afghanistan may feel frustrated, concerned and distressed at what is unfolding there.<\/p>\n
\u201cMy primary concern is the wellbeing of all of our veterans, defence personnel, here at home and abroad, and their families.<\/p>\n
\u201cI encourage anyone who served in Afghanistan to reach out to support services available to them and their families if they need it.\u201d
\nSince the start of the Afghanistan War more than 500 Australian military veterans have died by suicide.<\/p>\n
Mr Tyler said a range of help and support services are available for veterans and their families.<\/p>\n
\u201cAny ADF people, veterans or their families can call Open Arms 24 hours a day,\u201d Mr Tyler advised.<\/p>\n
\u201cIf you need to talk but don\u2019t want to disclose your name, please call Safe Zone Support which offers anonymous counselling service for ADF personnel, veterans and their families. It\u2019s free and available 24\/7.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mr Tyler reminded Afghanistan veterans to reach out to any mates and their families who may be finding it difficult at this time.<\/p>\n
\u201cAlthough COVID restrictions are keeping us apart, there has never been a more critical time to ensure we stay connected.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
DRAMATIC scenes following the fall of Kabul to the Taliban have prompted appeals to veterans and their families to connect with their local RSL if they need support. Torquay RSL president Bob Tyler said he was concerned about the wellbeing of veterans who served in Afghanistan. \u201cI understand how many of those who served in […]<\/p>\n