The Port Macquarie Hastings sub-branch of the National Servicemen's Association of NSW is on the look-out for more members.
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The Nashos will celebrate their national day on Friday February 14 with a service at McInherney Park from 11.30am.
President Tony Newell says the organisation is a social group with an emphasis on supporting members.
"We are always involved in the defence communities' observance of commemorative days and services," he said.
"Our support to our members is mainly by providing monthly meetings, and over the years we have organised social outings and bus trips.
"This has been enabled through the support of the federal government through DVA grants.
"The state government has also supported us through grants to provide flag poles and commemorative seating at our memorial site at McInherney Park."
Mr Newell said Port Macquarie-Hastings Council has also provided assistance in a variety of ways.
The NASHO's president said it was important to keep the association viable.
He said the group was open to everyone including, national servicemen from 1951 until 1959 and 1965 until 1972; former or service members of the citizen military forces including army; Army Reserves, RANR or RAAF; former members of an allied force; or, any person interested in the welfare of the NASHOs.
In 1951 during the Korean War, National Service was introduced under the National Service Act. All Australian males aged 18 years had to register for 176 (later 140) days of training and five years of service in the Citizens Military Force, also known as the militia.
Conscription in Australia, or mandatory military service - also known as national service - has a controversial history dating back to the first years of nationhood.
Conscription was abolished by law in 1973 but Australia currently still has provision for conscription during times of war. Potentially all Australian residents between the ages of 18 years and 60 could be called up in this way.
The Port Macquarie NASHOs meet at Panthers Port Macquarie on the first Tuesday of each month at 10am.
For more information on the NASHOs contact secretary Carmel on 6584 2250 or treasurer Rob on 5543 9965.
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