Vale Major General Warren Glenny AO RFD ED (Rtd)

Our Hills community came together last week to celebrate and commemorate the life of an extraordinary community leader, Major General Warren Edward Glenny AO RFD ED. Warren‘s life saw him serve 41 years in the Army, work in the wool and steel industries, volunteer as an ambulance officer, the fire brigade and serve in many, many other voluntary community groups.

General Glenny was one of only a handful of Australians to have commanded two Divisions of the Army the 3rd Division and 2nd Division. He joined the Army as a cadet at 14 years old at our own local regiment the 1st/15th Royal NSW Lancers.

In addition to his military record, most of our Hills community will have known General Glenny in his role as Director / President of the Castle Hill RSL Club . Roles he served in for multiple decades. Under his leadership this RSL club has become the most successful in NSW and a hub for our community locally. He was respected by our veteran community and a leader amongst them.

For me as local Federal Member and for a time Assistant Defence/ Pacific Minister, I know that Warren was one of Australia’s most powerful voices for strong and vibrant Defence Reserve Forces.

Warren instinctively understood that the only way liberal democratic societies can remain free is if citizens are prepared to fight and defend them. He was passionate every day in advocating to Government to secure better policy for reserves to be accessible and available to every day Australians and supported by Government and Defence.

General Glenny was right about the important of Defence Reserves and his passion and work will have a long legacy. Australia will be safer because of it.

It was such a special privilege to join Alan Cadman OAM to represent the community and the Liberal Party today (another cause Warren was passionate about) for this moving tribute to a great Australian.

Our community says thank you and vale for a life well lived. Our condolences to his wife Gaye, son Andrew and his wonderful family.