An ordinary club night at the Ashburton Returned Services Association last week turned into an extraordinary night for Merv Brenton and Allan Johnstone.
At the conclusion of his weekly presentation, RSA president Rob Aldridge announced that the two long serving members were receiving Royal New Zealand Returned and Services Merit Awards.
Allan was former vice-president, while Merv was former president.
Aldridge said they were receiving their awards for their service to the RSA organisation and in particular its Ashburton branch.
‘‘Their time and dedication to the Ashburton RSA goes above and beyond the call of duty. They have seen this club through some very difficult and trying times. If it were not for them, we would not be sitting here all together tonight,’’ he said.
‘‘These awards require a lot of boxes to be ticked, and letters of recommendation for head office to even consider awarding them. These gentlemen have been my mentors into this roll as your president and I am eternally grateful to them,’’ Aldridge said.
Merv said the award came as big surprise as neither he or Allan knew about them.
‘‘It’s a real honour to receive this award and the accolades that have gone with it.’’
Merv received a life membership of the Ashburton RSA 18 months ago and said he did what he did because he had family who served, and because he enjoyed it.
Allan was awarded life membership in 2022 and also said it was a huge honour.
‘‘It’s was recognition for the work we have done for no pay. We have had some good and great times over the years,’’ he said.
Both men said that one of the biggest things during their time leading the RSA was keeping the doors open during covid.
‘‘A highlight has been seeing the increase in membership. Our aim had been to create a happy club for the members, because it is all about the members, and we have done that,’’ Merv said.
Family of the two men attended the presentation, as well as Canterbury District RSA president Michelle Brown.
The RNZRSA merit badge is awarded to members who have rendered ten or more years of outstanding honorary service to the RSA for the benefit of RSA personnel and the wider community.
