Born into an Italian nominal catholic family, Tony's childhood was marked by occasional church and scripture classes, but by the time he was a teenager, he wasn't going anywhere.

"There was a basic understanding of God and Jesus", he recalls. "But I really didn't commit to anything. In Christmas 1984, I met some Salvation Army carol singers and they gave me a calendar which I pinned up at home. Later that year there was a particular need in our family. I saw the Salvation Army phone number on the wall and decided to give them a call. They were helpful. One day the captain said 'Why don't you come to church on Sunday?' So I did. They were friendly so I went back. I wasn't quickly convinced but I was interested. The question in my mind was 'Is this real?' I could see people who were living it out in their lives and I found that attractive.

"I did a Christianity Explained course and that convinced me. I gave my life to the Lord and asked Jesus to be my Saviour. In the Salvation Army, you can be a regular member, or you can go further and become a soldier. It seemed right to become a soldier. I did the preparation classes, wore the uniform and took over the kids program at our church. But I had no intention of becoming an officer. I was a Telstra technician."

It wasn't till 10 years later that Tony and his new wife, Yan, enrolled for two years of officer school. By this time, they were both quite sure that God was calling them to this. Since then, there have been a string of postings to Canberra, Cooma, Cootamundra, St. Mary's and Bass Hill, sometimes as a pastor, sometimes. as an aged care chaplain.

Last month, Majors Tony and Han DeTommaso were appointed to Tamworth. It's an unusual time to move, but probably a good one. As Tony says, "It's given us time to find our feet before the heavy demands of Christmas and the Festival."

When you're a Salvo, there is always plenty to do. They will be carol singing at Bunnings each Thursday at 1:30pm. Sunday services at 10am are a major rallying point for soldiers, members and visitors. There's always a warm but COVID cautious welcome.

The Sunday before Christmas also sees a free barbecue and Christmas service starting at 5:30pm. The Salvos shop in Viaduct Park is open Monday to Friday, providing a much-needed hand up for many. There are other Salvation Army welfare networks that operate out of the building. They can be accessed by calling 13SALVOS. For those in financial straits, there is material and counselling help. There's also a special Christmas day Carol service at 9:30 am and on Sunday, 23 January, a country music service with Gavin Chatelier at 10am.

Tony and Jan have appreciated the warm welcome to Tamworth and are looking forward to meeting new people. In fact, Tony has a dream of building an alfresco dining area at the edge of the centre, what he calls "a place where people can talk and lunch in a relaxed context."