Anzac Day today marks the 109th commemoration
The Australia and New Zealand and PNG Defense Force personnel, representatives of the government, diplomatic partners and individuals turned up in numbers at the Bomana War Cemetery to honor the fallen heroes of the Kokoda Campaign in the World wars.
The Australian and New Zealand Defense Forces at the Anzac Day dawn service this morning marked the 109th anniversary of more than 6,000 servicemen who lost their lives while serving the allied forces in defending the Japanese expansion in the Pacific.
The dawn service was significant as people gathered in fellowship with friends and engaged in a quiet personal reflection and took the time to remember all those whose service led to the ultimate sacrifice.
They read the memorial to the missing, showed the iconic Cross of Remembrance, and reflected each headstone serving as eternal reminders of the cost of the liberties and freedoms enjoyed today.
The Australian Chief of Air force, Marshal Robert Chipman expressed that the Bomana War Cemetery holds a special place for Australia as over 3,300 Australian service personnel rest there which is more than any other war cemetery in the world.
He says the vision they had in the battle still remains an utmost responsibility and he has encouraged more strong partnerships.
“Today we gather to honor and remember all those who have served and are serving our nations in the armed forces and in particular those who gave their lives.
“Although ANZAC Day is based on First World War and all the battles fought since then 109 years ago, the dawn of the 25th of April 1915 was a pivotal moment in the country's history.
“Despite its ultimate failure, that battle forged a strong bond among soldiers from both nations defining national identify and partnership that would establish an enduring partnership, on that continues to see our men and women to operate alongside each other,” Chipman said.
New Zealand chief of Air force, Air vice Marshall, Darryn Webb says the determination of those who fought in the New Guinea offensives continues to inspire everyone and their legacy lives.
Webb says this dawn service is significant as they honor the fallen, celebrate enduring bonds, and draw strength from the past as they forge ahead into the future.
“These stories remind us about trust, about mate ship, about shared challenges and working together to overcome the seeming impossible. Things that are as powerful and important today as they were in yester years.
“I want to say this in closing, my success in not mine alone but it is a strength of many. It neatly summarizes our collective approach to the challenge in front of us,” Webb said.
Meanwhile, Papua New Guinea Defense Force upholds values such as Professionalism, Teamwork, Tradition, and Custom.
PNGDF Acting Chief of Force, Commodore Philip Polewara is committed to work in collaboration with the Australian and New Zealand Defense Force's to ensure peace and democracy is strengthened in the Pacific.