Anzac Day is more than a national day of remembrance in Australia; it is a day that brings stories of heroism, sacrifice, and the unbreakable spirit of our forebears into the present. At Lance Jensen Real Estate, this day resonates deeply with the personal history of our own Stuart Moffitt and his family, whose military service spans generations.
From the local Lion Club Anzac Service at Allambee Park in Valentine, the Moffitt family has been a constant presence, their commitment to remembrance unwavering. For years, Stuart’s family have participated in the march, with their children proudly representing their schools. This year marks a poignant moment, as they attend the service without their children participating in the march for the first time in a decade, signifying a new phase in their Anzac Day traditions.
The military legacy within Stuart’s family is rich and distinguished. It begins with Stuart’s Great, Great Uncle, Lance Corporal Thomas Moffitt who was killed in WWI.
The mantle of defenders of our nation was then taken up by both of Stuart’s grandfathers who served in WWII. Allan Benjamin Coop, (Stuart’s mother, Patricia Moffitt’s father) who served in the Royal Air Force as an aircraft mechanic during the Second World War. Stationed in Dundee, Scotland, from 1939 to 1945, it was here that he met his future wife, Annie Knowles, bringing her back to Australia as a wartime bride.
Stuart’s Grandfather, Ross Carlisle Moffitt, who served in the Australian Army Pay Corps from 1941 to 1946. His time included over a year in Papua New Guinea, from 1944 to 1945, before being medically repatriated to Australia. Among the family treasures is a telegram dated 1942, during the heart of the Second World War—an acceptance of Ross Carlisle Moffitt’s marriage proposal from his then-future wife, Norma. This piece of history not only highlights the personal sacrifices made during times of conflict but also the enduring strength of love and commitment.
Both Allan and Ross’ service is commemorated through their medals, the 1939-45 Star, Defence Medal, Pacific Star, War Medal 1939-1945, and the Australia Service Medal 1939-1945.
Further embodying the family’s tradition of service, Stuart’s father, David Carlisle Moffitt, served in the Army Reserves from 1966 to 1972. He underwent officer training at Randwick, achieving the rank of 1st Lieutenant and serving as the second in command of the Number 2 recovery unit. This dedication to service was mirrored by Stuart’s Uncle, Rowan Carlisle Moffitt, who served in the Australian Navy 1974-2014 where he worked his way up through the ranks from senior entry Midshipman to his retiring role as Rear Admiral.
Adding to this legacy, Stuart himself served in the Army reserves between 1997 and 2000, where he was a Craftsman in REAME – 7th Battalion. Each member of the Moffitt family has carried the torch of service, contributing to our nation’s security and upholding the values we hold dear.
As we commemorate Anzac Day, the stories of the Moffitt family remind us of the deep personal connections many families have to this day of remembrance. It’s a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by those who came before us and to honour their memory with pride and gratitude.
At Lance Jensen Real Estate, we believe in the importance of community and tradition in preserving our history. We encourage everyone to participate in local Anzac Day services and to reflect on what these sacrifices have meant for our freedoms today. Let us remember, honour, and carry forward the legacy of our heroes, just as the Moffitt family continues to do.
This Anzac Day, as we stand in remembrance, we also look forward with a commitment to service, both in our communities and in our personal endeavours, inspired by those who have exemplified courage and dedication in the face of adversity.
