Charlie Lynn MP does have a misconception about the actual meaning of the noun Anzac.

His concept of hero status is taken in the wrong context. The volunteers who perform gallant endeavours to prevent harm to persons and properties caused by fires is most certainly an heroic act of bravery.

They should be rewarded with a civilian bravery award (medal/ribbon) applicable to that service, plus other civilian branches of community services such as SES, RFS, police, ambulance etc.

These men and women are not “enlisted” to a time-frame of duty, whereas the armed services are. Some members are committed to the army, navy and air force for long engagement periods, other enlist for the specified engagement period, ie six years, nine years, 12 years etc.

In their engagement period they may be required to fight in an armed conflict against the enemy. If they happen to fight the enemy and commit “Acts of Valour” to save their comrades, they are then considered for a valour medal. These men and women for that matter are the heroes who are willing to sacrifice their lives for the country and their mates.

There you have the assimilation of “hero” status.

GREG DALY

TAMWORTH