The Salvation Army Red Shield Defence Services (RSDS) continued the Sallyman tradition last weekend by serving the defence force community in Adelaide at an Easter Egg Hunt.

Held at Keswick Barracks in South Australia on 9 April, nearly 400 defence personnel and their families celebrated Easter with a family fun day organised by the Defence Community Organisation (DCO).

The Sallyman representatives were present with their iconic green truck (mobile ‘Hop In’) providing refreshments, and were joined by the Easter Bunny who entertained children with an Easter egg hunt. 

Their support continues a long partnership with the DCO, which organises events for, and gives support to, the defence community through the year.

“This is the way The Salvation Army links with the soldier, caring for their welfare and morale,” says RSDS Senior Representative Major Susan May. “It’s our mission to support defence members, their partners and their families, in whatever way we can, whether it’s on base, in the field during training, overseas on deployment, or in their homes.”

The Sallyman has a historic legacy in The Salvation Army, serving troops since 1899 and providing support during the Boar War, both World Wars, Vietnam, Korea , Cambodia, Afghanistan, the Solomon Islands, and East Timor. Their philanthropic support also extends to the partners and families by supporting events and activities on base and in the community.

“For us, it’s part of our mission to get alongside people; to give them a drink, build relationships, and enjoy life with them. Through this you get to know how people are doing, what’s happening in their lives, and how we can support them while they are here,” says Major May. “Nearly everyone knows our truck now, and that’s a bonus.”