A Legacy of Courage and Connection: Honouring Veterans This Remembrance Day
Today we pause to acknowledge the extraordinary individuals who served with strength and sacrifice. One of those individuals is Anthony Scriggins, a veteran whose life demonstrates courage in conflict and unwavering resilience in the decades that followed. His love story with his wife, Valerie, now spanning almost 70 years, is just as remarkable.
Raised in Leicester, England, Anthony joined the British Army at 17 and stepped into a world shaped by discipline, danger, and deep camaraderie. Across 20 years of service, he became a Paratroop Instructor, preparing soldiers for the high-risk environment of airborne operations. His early deployments took him to Palestine and the Gaza Strip, where battles were intense and losses were heartbreaking. Anthony carries those memories with him, but he also holds tremendous pride in knowing his training helped bring soldiers safely home.
He married Valerie in 1957, beginning a lifelong partnership grounded in devotion and endurance. Together they raised three sons—each born during Anthony’s military years. Many milestones were missed due to deployment; he met his first child several months after the baby was born. Valerie’s strength held their family together, and she later worked as a hosiery factory manager while raising their children.
Anthony sustained life-changing injuries during a bombing that cost him several fingers and the sight in one eye. Yet his sharp wit never faltered. “I might be missing a few parts,” he jokes, “but I still get around just fine!” After recovering, he remained dedicated to the defence community through security work at Army bases.
At 60, he and Valerie began a new chapter in Australia, joining family who had already moved here. They’ve spent over 20 years building a rich life surrounded by children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Their granddaughter Kelly, alongside her husband, proudly serves in the Australian Air Force, continuing the family’s long-standing ties to military service.
Anthony still writes to his old army friends in the UK and often reflects on times shared with “the lads at the pub.” He and Valerie fondly remember their energetic Jack Russell, Spike, and still enjoy looking after their son’s dog from time to time.
Anthony’s story reminds us that the essence of service extends far beyond the battlefield. It lives in the healing, the humour, and the commitment to family and community that follow. This Remembrance Day, we honour Anthony, Valerie, and every family who has carried the weight of service with grace.
We will remember them.
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