Thursday 25 July 2024
Governor General, Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae, laying a wreath at the Remembrance Memorial Park, Ela Beach on Tuesday 23 July 2024, Commemorating 43rd Remembrance Day. (picture courtesy of Government House).
The 43rd Remembrance Day was marked with solemnity and pride at Ela Beach Memorial Park, as Papua New Guineans gathered to honor those who sacrificed their lives in battle.
The Governor General, Grand Chief Sir Bob Bofeng Dadae, led the commemoration, highlighting the bravery and devotion of the nation’s war heroes.
In his address to the nation, Sir Bob expressed the significance of this day, stating, “It is my greatest honour to join you all to commemorate the 43rd Remembrance Day, to remember and honour the sacrifice of those who fell in battle and those who stood in defence of our land and its people.”
He emphasized the contributions of ordinary villagers who supported the war effort by carrying supplies, guiding soldiers, and tending to the wounded.
Reflecting on the dedication of these unsung heroes, Sir Bob said, “They were a people in their own time. Many of them died without telling us their names, or where they came from or, who their families are and what their dreams were.”
He noted that those individuals were driven by a sense of duty and loyalty, which played a crucial role in the nation’s defense.
The Governor General also drew attention to the values upheld by the war heroes, such as obedience and selflessness, which have shaped the nation’s identity.
He lamented the erosion of these values in modern times, pointing out that “ill-discipline and disorder have become serious problems facing us today.”
Sir Bob urged the people of Papua New Guinea to honor the legacy of the war heroes by fostering a disciplined and well-ordered society.
“They fought for a society that is disciplined and well ordered; where families are protected, leaders are respected, women and girls are cared for, youths are well behaved and children are groomed to become better citizens,” he said.
The Governor General called for unity and cooperation among citizens, emphasizing the importance of adhering to the rule of law and promoting peace.
“My appeal to all Papua New Guineans throughout our country – respect and adhere to the established rule of law and denounce all forms of violence in our society,” he urged.
Sir Bob reminded everyone of their duty to remember and honor the sacrifices made by the war heroes.
“By celebrating the memory of the people that fought for us, we can build a stronger and more united country,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to those gathered and wished for continued peace and harmony in the nation.
“Lest we Forget,” he concluded, as the ceremony ended with a moment of silence to honor the fallen heroes.
The event was attended by Acting Chief of Defence Force and Parade Host Commodore Philip Polewara, war veterans, Governor, National Capital District Hon. Powes Parkop, Members of the Diplomatic Corp, Chief Secretary to Government, Ivan Pomaleu, former Commanders of the PNG Defence Force, Brigadier General Jerry Singirok, Commodore Peter Ilau, Brig General Francis Agwi and other distinguished guests.
Governor General, Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae, (left),Guest of Honour, during the 43rd Remembrance Day Commemoration on Tuesday 23 July 2024, at Remembrance Park, Ela Beach.