Memorial services
will be held across Australia tomorrow to mark the 67th anniversary
of the loss of HMAS Sydney II.
This year’s anniversary is of particular significance,
with the wreck of HMAS Sydney II being found on 16 March 2008.
Major services will be held at the Australian War Memorial
in Canberra, and at the HMAS Sydney II memorial in Geraldton.
An at-sea service over the site of HMAS Sydney II will also
be held with more than 280 relatives onboard HMAS Manoora.
Poignantly, HMAS Sydney IV will also join HMAS Manoora for
the service. The reburial of the unknown sailor will also
be held at the Geraldton Cemetery tomorrow.
The Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral (VADM) Russ Crane, AM, CSM,
RAN stressed the importance of remembering the loss tomorrow.
“The demise of HMAS Sydney II in 1941 was Australia’s
greatest maritime loss, with the death of 645 men, the loss
of which is still felt today,” VADM Crane said. “These
men served their country with distinction. It is important
that we take the time, with their families, to honour these
men who paid the ultimate price for defence of their nation.
The story of Sydney II is an important part of our Navy’s
history and heritage and we should aim to live up to her ships
company’s courage and sacrifice.”
HMAS Sydney II was tragically lost 67 years ago off Western
Australia following a fierce engagement with the German raider
HSK Kormoran.