Marape pays tribute to WWII soldiers

PRIME Minister James Marape has paid tribute to the fallen Australian and New Zealand soldiers, including Papua New Guineans, who served during World War II and other battles.
Marape was at the dawn service at the Bomana War Cemetery to remember those who lost their lives in PNG, the Pacific region and throughout the world.
“It was here also in PNG that many Australian and New Zealand (Anzac) soldiers lost their lives during these wars,” he said.
“In this time, we also remember the families of those brave men who have lost their lives in our land.”
Marape laid a wreath at the Bomana War Cemetery outside Port Moresby to commemorate Anzac Day on Saturday.
Ialibu-Pangia MP Peter O’Neill, in paying tribute to the fallen soldiers in a statement, also said PNG had become an important part of the Anzac (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps) legend.
The leader of the People’s National Congress Party and former prime minister said: “The World War II was a conflict that was imposed upon our people nearly 80 years ago, and they stood up to this challenge and joined the fight on the world stage.
“In fact, an important stone in the foundations of our statehood was laid by the men and woman who served in that war, where so many also lost their lives.
“Our people formed a bond with the Aussies and Kiwis that is still an important part of the relationship we have today.”