I AM writing on behalf of the Inverloch RSL to express our disappointment with the recent political advertisement featuring local political candidate Deb Leonard in your ANZAC Day supplement.

While we understand and respect Ms Leonard’s pride in her grandfather’s war achievements, we strongly believe that using his war medals for political purposes is both tacky and of low standard.

ANZAC Day is a solemn occasion meant to honour the sacrifices and courage of our veterans. It is not an appropriate platform for political campaigning.

The use of war medals in this context detracts from the dignity and respect that should be afforded to our veterans and their families.

We urge Ms Leonard and other political candidates to consider the impact of their campaign strategies on the community and to refrain from using symbols of national remembrance in such a manner.

Lest We Forget.

LJ Guerin, Secretary, Inverloch RSL

Editor’s note: Three local Members of Parliament and a candidate, each of different political colours, supported a six-page feature in the Sentinel-Times last week where stories of personal sacrifice and service were highlighted alongside details of the times and locations for the general community wishing to come out and support our returned and serving military personnel. This week’s newspaper carries comprehensive coverage of ANZAC Day locally, as we do every year, work that would not be possible without advertising support from the local business community and others.