In the trenches of the Western Front during World War I, a soldier said to his dying mate, “I’ll look after the missus and kids.” This became known as “The Promise” - and it is still kept today.
Legacy:
Born From the Ashes of War
Legacy’s story began in the aftermath of World War I, a conflict that claimed the lives of more than 60,000 Australian service personnel and left over 150,000 wounded. Many survivors later succumbed to their injuries, leaving behind grieving families with little support.
Amid this profound loss, returning soldiers recognised a new mission: to care for the widows and children of their fallen comrades. In 1923, Major General Sir John Gellibrand founded the Remembrance Club in Hobart to support those left behind. Inspired by this initiative, Lieutenant General Sir Stanley Savige established a similar organisation in Melbourne. This became Legacy.
Legatees
Initially, Legacy’s work was carried out by returned servicemen, who dedicated themselves to supporting bereaved families. These men became known as Legatees, volunteers committed to continuing the bond of service and sacrifice. A century later, Legatees still form the heart of Legacy, offering care, companionship, and advocacy to Legacy families.
Today in Australia, Legacy supports tens of thousands of widows and families affected not only by the World Wars, but also by service in Korea, Malaya, Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, and peacekeeping missions around the world.
What began as a local effort has grown into a nationwide network of 44 Legacy Clubs, plus one in London. Together, they provide vital emotional, social, and financial support, ensuring that no widow or child of a veteran ever faces hardship alone.