This Sunday, 26 August, I attended the Memorial Service for the Battle of Milne Bay in Papua New Guinea during WW II. The 61st Battalion, The Cameron Highlanders (a Queensland Reserve Battalion) inflicted the first defeat on land that the Japanese suffered. Had the Japanese not been stopped at Milne Bay, the next stop was Queensland Northern Australia.

Of course, the Aussie soldiers weren't the only ones who eventually became involved in the battle at Milne Bay...there was the Aussie and US Air Force and US soldiers.

At this Memorial Service I was asked to pipe the laying of the wreaths...wreath layers included representatives of all allied services present at the battle. But piping the wreath laying wasn't the honour...I was asked to "tend" the US Flag, lowering it to half mast during the playing of the Last Post and returning it to the masthead on the playing of Rouse (Reveille). I take this duty very seriously and was proud to tend the US Flag.

May all soldiers who participated in this battle and who now lay in the Military Cemeteries of New Guinea Rest In Peace.

Lest We Forget



Cheers, Vince

Bless you many many times Vinnie, that was quite a cool opportunity for you! If I was there I'm sure there would be tears of joy, thank you very much for that........um...where's the photos? No I know you were busy adjusting your skirt an all but....thank you from the bottom of my heart and the thought really of another countryman doing that is just a sweet joy to hear. You're freakin bad-a$$ Vinnie!

Suz

Thanks Suz...the honour was all mine mate.

No pics from me...I simply didn't have time, or was able to take pics. There was however a member of the local RSL there taking pics...I'll see if I can get a look at what he took.

Cheers, Vince

Thanks, Vince, for helping us all remember those who have given their lives for freedom.

Yes, thanks for the reminder. Humbling what others have done for us.


-DallanC

Thanks Vince...

Very nice, thanks Vince.

You ROCK Mr. Vince. Proud to call you friend, sir!

NEVER FORGET!

I Salute You !!!! Thank You My friend

Good on you Vince, looks forward for the photos

Careful what you ask for there Gelandangan. Vince in a kilt?

Bushy,
Kilt in Papua New Guinea is good idea coz its really hot there, and ventilation is good with kilts.
Its not just photo of Vince in kilt that I am waiting for,
it is for his expression when the flies and mozzie buzz the jewels, while his hands is full with bagpipes...
Anyways, that would make quite interesting photos.

Now that might be a sight to see...Well... then again...Maybe not.

Thanks Vince

good on ya mate. Im sure you did the lads proud.