Federal Member for Blaxland and Minister for Defence Materiel, Jason Clare, travelled to Milne Bay in Papua New Guinea on the weekend with eight veterans to commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the Battle of Milne Bay.
Mr Clare said that it was an honour and a privilege to make this trip with these men.
“There are few events in Australia’s history that are important, but little as known, as what happened in Milne Bay seventy years ago,” Mr Clare said.
The battle of Milne Bay was the first time the Japanese Army was defeated in World War II.
7,500 Australians fought at Milne Bay – 167 were killed and 373 were wounded.
Mr Clare said at the memorial service in Milne Bay:
“The world was made better by the sacrifices made here.
“We all owe you a debt that can never be repaid.
“But what we can do is live a life worthy of the sacrifices that were made here.
“And we can thank you for what you did – and remember those who did it with you.
“Lest we forget.”
Media Contact: Mr Chris Zogopoulos (02) 9790 2466
