RSL recognition for Russell

He was honoured for that commitment late last week, when he was presented with a certificate of appreciation at Orana, where he lives.

It was presented by Deniliquin RSL Sub-branch chairman John Harris, on behalf of the club’s board.

While the board’s original plan was to bestow Mr Eames life membership, unfortunately he was no longer eligible by the time the RSL AGM arrived as he is no longer a financial member of the club.

Not wanting to see Mr Eames’ efforts go unnoticed, the board agreed to recognition of a different kind.

Until this year, Mr Eames had been a loyal member of the Deni RSL over many years and had served the Club in a number of roles following his World War II service.

One of his longest held roles was as the club’s Santa Claus for about 42 years.

Mr Harris said this included being Santa to over 500 local children each year.

And he was so believable, Mr Eames’ own son Dennis didn’t recognise him.

In his speech Mr Harris recognised Mr Eames as being part of “in my view, our greatest generation - the generation who lived and served through World War I and World War II”.

Witnessing the presentation on Thursday afternoon was a crowd of more than 20, which included residents and staff of Orana.

Dennis surprised his father by making the trip from Bendigo, and other special guests included Mr Eames’ good friend and Anzac Day and Remembrance Day chauffeur Kim Thomas.

On accepting the certificate, Mr Eames said he was “truly grateful” to accept the honour from the Deni RSL.

“I’m very appreciative of this. You’re all wonderful people,” he said.

“Thank you so much.

“I’ve waited 101 years for this,” he joked.