PNG close to Aussie hearts

SPENDING Anzac Day in Papua New Guinea presented an opportunity to reflect on the enduring relationship forged on the Kokoda Track during the World War 2, a senior Australia army officer says.
Lieutenant-General Rick Burr said “Papua New Guinea has a special place in the hearts of Australians. We will never forget the bond forged between our people, both soldiers and civilians, under extreme hardship”.
He is in the country with Australian Assistant Minister for International Development and the Pacific Senator Anne Ruston and Australian Shadow Minister for Defence Richard Marles for the commemoration of Anzac Day.
Commemorations took place yesterday with dawn services at the Bomana War Cemetery in Port Moresby and other locations around the country.
Guests included Governor-General Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae and Prime Minister Peter O’Neill.
Ruston and Burr travelled to Isurava on the Kokoda Track for an Anzac Day commemorative service and the opening of a new museum and trade house at Efogi.
Ruston said Australia and New Zealand remembered those who fought and died during the Gallipoli campaign in the First World War. “We recognise the courage, mateship, skill, and perseverance of those who have served, fought, and gave their lives,” she said.
“In Papua New Guinea, we remember the World War II campaigns when foreign troops landed on the shores of this country.” In Rabaul, commemorations were held to remember the loss of Australia’s first submarine HMAS AE1 on Sept 14 1914 and all personnel aboard off the Duke of York Islands.