Three generations of a Limestone Coast family have been presented with certificates of appreciation recognising their service to the Australian defence force.

Federal Member for Barker Tony Pasin presented certificates to three Alton, Garry and Carl Von Stanke.

The late Alton Alvin Von Stanke was a Private in Australian Army from 1944 to 1946, serving in the 26th Australian Infantry Battalion and received a certificate for service in World War II.

Garry Von Stanke was a Lance Corporal in the Australian Army’s Royal Australian Engineers, serving from 1967 to 1969.

He was a member of the First Field Squadron from June 25, 1968 to 25 June 25, 1969 and received a certificate for service in Vietnam.

Carl Bernhard Von Stanke was a Lance Corporal in the Australian Army and receive a certificate for service in Afghanistan and Middle East from August 2020 to January 2021.

Mr Pasin said he was pleased to be able to present Garry Von Stanke with the acknowledgment of his family’s service across three generations.

“Certificates of Appreciation are just one way the Australian Government expresses its gratitude to those who have given so much in protecting our country’s interests and helping to restore and maintain peace around the world,” he said.

“We are grateful for the dedication and sacrifice demonstrated by our veterans’ service to Australia.

“The sacrifices made by our servicemen and women is not only an individual one but is felt by the family at home too.

“For the Von Stanke family this sacrifice has been felt across generations.

“I’m honoured to play a small part in acknowledging this service to our nation by presenting Certificates of Appreciation on behalf of the Commonwealth.”