Purpose found, veteran looks to help others

Former Army cargo specialist Dale Weber wants to help his community, in particular veterans in the Wodonga community.

Dale, who makes wooden military-style silhouette cutouts, would like to help other veterans who are struggling to come and join him.

The Baranduda resident makes the cutouts as a reminder to the community that ANZAC Day is not just a public holiday but has a special significance to Australia.

" I just have different cutouts that mean something to myself, mainly, and my wife," he said.

"They are just about sharing the spirit that ANZAC Day is not just a public holiday. It's a celebration for those that have lost their lives to gain our freedom.

"I would like to help other veterans ... you know come around, have a coffee, sit down, make them, have a chat and you know, we can pump some these out.

"It's just a get-together as a little working bee but actually get something achieved from it. I am all about helping veterans and helping ourselves."

Dale served in the Army for 12 years including 10 months in Afghanistan before he was medically discharged and retired to Wodonga.

He says making the cutouts has helped him and given him purpose. Dale was diagnosed with PTSD and has found making the cutouts beneficial.

"The doctor said to me I needed to get a hobby," he said.

"This has helped me to find a reason to get out of bed in the morning. It has helped to give me purpose."

Dale makes a variety of styles including, a trumpet player, rest on arms, military service dogs, helicopters and kneeling soldiers to represent the Vietnam era.

"I sell them mainly to retired veterans," he said.

"So they can share the spirit of ANZAC Day and Rememberance Day for their fallen."

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