The poem below is written by George Mansford in response to a rejection by the Government to index ADF superannuation pensions the same as they do for aged pensionsers and politicians. We have ex ADF GN members here whose incomes are affected by this unjust decision.
Do Canberra Suits Think Its All A Game ?
I heard the news that the Senate had given old soldiers the flick
Clearly, those past promises were a cruel trick
It seemed there has been betrayal from the Greens who vowed trust
And Senator Lundy who not so long ago preached that the cause was just
The war drums are beating and theres anger in the air
All the military wanted was a fair go and this result is far from fair
The ire is growing and I doubt if it will subside
The warrior fraternity has been taken for a ride
Theyre not asking for riches, perks, or what they havent earnt
Nor like others, seeking new bridges to replace those theyve burnt
Dont Canberra Suits really understand that its about a fair go
Diggers young and old are fair dinkum; this aint a one week show
Let me relate some truths from days gone by
Youngsters volunteered to wear the sacred cloth and eager to try
They believed in each other and their leaders never lied
As soldiers they were ready to fight and knew some would die
With no union rules they followed orders and no questions asked
Even though there were sometimes doubts about the Canberra Brass
Soldiers were told things that were not very nice
The fresh rations arent coming so eat whats left of the rice
Sorry fellas, saddle up, theres no time to rest
Were outnumbered and the enemy to our front is their best
No matter what happens, stand fast, cos were here to the very last
Leaves been cancelledor your bed for the night is this Marsh
Diggers have been used to tough times and even worse
They have always obeyed and got on the task, albeit with a curse
Not enough family giddays and far too many sad hoorays
Over the years, a nomadic life and lets face it, poor conditions and pay
All of this was accepted and there was never hesitation to serve
Now the bloody Senate turns it back on what is their just deserve
The irony of all of this is very clear and far from sweet
Instead of soldiering and compulsory retirement payments to meet
They could have surfed every day and doled for many a year
Then, like the Canberra suits and others, received a better indexation
Is it any wonder that among the warriors there is growing vexation?
By the way, as well as super, the military too pays personal taxation
So as old soldiers prepare for the final phase of life
Many hope that the first to go will be the beloved wife
Cos the reduced pension which a widow officially deserves
Is pathetic recognition of women who kept home fires burning and quietly served
Given Canberras double standards of them and us; is there no shame?
Or do the Canberra Suits think its all part of some bull**** game?
Speaking of which; let me close with the words a recent Prime Minister said
We must always honour those who wore the proud national thread".
George Mansford June 2011
PS. Diggers embraces Matelots, Blue Orchards, Shielas and Blokes and I reckon theyll be still bloody angry long after theyre dead.
