The Governor-General and Prime Minister joined Australia and New Zealand’s High Commissioners to commemorate Anzac Day at Central Police Station, yesterday.
Australian High Commissioner Rod Hilton said, “Anzac Day has been one of the most important dates on Australia’s calendar since 1916. It’s an occasion for us to honour all who have worn, and still wear, our country’s uniform in service.”
“I would like to acknowledge the more than 20 Australian and New Zealand Defence Force members deployed to Solomon Islands working with the Australian Federal Police and the Republic of Fiji Military Forces as part of the Solomons International Assistance Force (SIAF).”
“Since arriving in November 2021 SIAF has worked side by side with the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force; a partnership founded on our enduring history, shared values, and deep friendships as Pacific Family. They’ve shown that when the Pacific family works together, we can respond to the peace and security needs of the Pacific when it matters most, Mr Hilton said.”
Each year on 25 April, Australian and New Zealanders mark Anzac Day, which commemorates the landing of Australian and New Zealand soldiers, also known as the Anzacs, at Gallipoli during World War One.
Anzac Day is a time of personal reflection; an opportunity to remember the loyalty, selflessness and courage of the original Anzacs.
Senior Australian Defence Force representative Air Commodore David Hombsch reflected on the impact of World War Two on Solomon Islands and the crucial support Australia received from the Solomon Scouts.
“We reflect on all those that lost their lives, whether friend or foe. It is my deepest wish that conflict never again arises near these shores” Air Commodore Hombsch said.
85 serving members of the Australian Defence Force have died in Solomon Islands. 84 of them were sailors who died when the HMAS Canberra sunk during the Battle of Guadalcanal in 1942. The 85th was Private Jamie Clark, a young soldier who died on Mount Austin during a routine patrol while serving as part of RAMSI.
- AHC MEDIA RELEASE
- Featured Photo: Australian and New Zealand Defence Force flag orderlies at the Central Police Station Centotaph. PHOTO SUPPLIED.
