Legacy has been part of Patty life story from an early age, shaping her into the strong and compassionate individual she is today.

Her father, Claude Strike, was not only a proud Vietnam veteran who also served in Borneo and Malaysia but also an active member of the local RSL and a dedicated Legatee. His passing when Patty was just 10 years old marked a profound moment in her life, one that was met with the unwavering support of Legacy.

As a junior beneficiary, Patty found herself embraced by a community that understood her grief and provided her with guidance and care. One of her most cherished childhood memories is attending Legacy youth camps across Australia. Beginning at age 13, these camps became a sanctuary of comfort and connection.

"At these camps, we all came from different backgrounds and faced different challenges," Patty reflects. "But we were united by a shared experience, and we supported each other. Not only did I make lifelong friendships, but I found a whole family."

In 2016, Patty had the extraordinary opportunity to travel to Pozieres for the 100th anniversary of Gallipoli, thanks to the support of Legacy. This journey was more than a historical pilgrimage; it was a deeply emotional experience shared with fellow junior beneficiaries who understood the unique bond of loss and remembrance.

"I was privileged to walk in the footsteps of heroes," Patty shares. "Imagining what they endured—the fear, the sacrifice, and the unimaginable loss—was humbling. Standing where they once stood, I felt their bravery and the weight of their sacrifice in a way that words cannot express. Sharing this experience with others who had also lost parents to service made it even more meaningful. We bonded not just as friends but as a family, united by Legacy's support."

Patty credits Legacy for having a profound influence on her life, shaping her values and resilience.

"Legacy has made a huge impact on the person I am today," she says. "Their support changes lives, and I am truly proud to be part of this incredible organisation."

From the camaraderie of youth camps to the solemnity of walking battlefields, Patty's journey exemplifies the enduring promise Legacy keeps to the families of fallen and incapacitated veterans.