Battle of the Coral Sea remembered as key in building long-term strong relationship between Australia and the United States
Deadly WWII battle forges strong international partnership for decades to come as Dawn Service honours Battle of the Coral Sea. SEE THE PHOTOS.
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Those who paid the ultimate sacrifice and those who served at the Battle of the Coral Sea were remembered in a solemn Dawn Service at Anzac Park.
The Coral Sea battle occurred between May 4-8 1942 in a series of naval engagements by US and Australian and Japanese aircraft against four groups of warships.
The battle was Japan’s first major operational failure in World War II and Commanding Officer HMAS Cairns Commander Andrew Thorpe, who gave the key note address, said the battle also stopped their seaborne invasion of Port Moresby in Papua New Guinea.
“During the engagement, there was no Australian Navy personnel lost, however, USS Lexington and USS Sims, those ships were lost at battle, and there was significant loss of life for the United States during that engagement,” he said.
“With all history, we always take lessons. For us, it’s really important to acknowledge with this battle, our relationship with the United States, especially in this Indo Pacific area, it’s really vital with our strategic partner for a safe, secure and prosperous Indo Pacific region.”
The commander said it was vital the legacy of those who fought in the battle still be remembered today.
“It’s the history that really drives the way that we go forward. It’s important for our younger generation to understand the sacrifice and loss of our predecessors and just to acknowledge their sacrifices
US Consulate General in Sydney head of public affairs Li Ping Po said the Battle of the Coral Sea changed the course of history.
“Today’s dawn memorial service is really important because we honour the sacrifice, the bravery and heroism of American and Australian servicemen and women and our communities that supported the victory,” she said.
She said the conflict demonstrated the military commitment between the US and Australia.
“We owe today’s peace, prosperity and our success in World War Two, when Americans and Australian servicemen and women and our communities stood shoulder to shoulder in ensuring world peace and justice.”
Originally published as Battle of the Coral Sea remembered as key in building long-term strong relationship between Australia and the United States
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