Monday, 11 November 2024
Member for Cootamundra, Steph Cooke, has acknowledged the ultimate sacrifice made by members of Australia’s Defence Force throughout times of peace and conflict.
Remembrance Day services were held across the Cootamundra electorate, holding a minute’s silence on the 11th hour of the 11th day, on the 11th month to remember and honour the sacrifices of all who have lost their lives in wars, conflicts and peacekeeping operations, so that we can enjoy life today.
“Many of us share a personal connection with those who have served; whether they are relatives or dear friends, the current and former defence personnel within our community hold a special place in our hearts,” Ms Cooke said.
“On this Remembrance Day, let us stand together in unity and gratitude, for the sacrifices of those who have served – and those who continue to serve – and let us strive for a peaceful and harmonious world in their memory.”
This year’s Remembrance Day services are especially poignant for members of the Gundagai community, with Private Richard Norden awarded a posthumous Victoria Cross award, for rescuing a comrade under enemy fire, and retrieving the body of a fallen soldier.
“Private Norden is an example of courage in the face of extreme circumstances, heroically rushing into the line of fire to protect his fellow soldier and to make sure nobody was left behind. Today, we honour his bravery and recognise Private Norden’s among the 1,100 names on the Gundagai War Memorial, on Sheridan Street,” Ms Cooke said.
Ms Cooke also acknowledged the attendance of school students from across the Cootamundra electorate, who placed wreaths at their local war memorials in towns like Cowra, Junee and Coolamon.
“It’s wonderful to see students across our Cootamundra community ensuring that future generations know and appreciate the courage, dedication, and selflessness of our military personnel – making sure the memory of our heroes is preserved and honoured for years to come,” Ms Cooke said.
“It's through the younger members of the community that we ensure the events which have shaped our nation in such a fundamental way, are long remembered.”
In Boorowa, Ms Cooke was joined by New South Wales Police Commissioner, Karen Webb, and members of the Boorowa RSL Sub-Branch to unveil the names of 887 service personnel who bravely served their country throughout the Second World War.
“In a town of less than 2,000 people, to imagine 887 members of our community putting their hands up to join our defence force during wartime is unfathomable. I am truly honoured to see the names of these brave men and women preserved for years to come in this honour roll, and recognised for their service,” Ms Cooke said.
“The hard work of the late Dianne Elliot and husband Peter, Boorowa RSL Sub-Branch President Alan Banks, and fellow RSL members has helped secure this important recognition unveiled here today. I thank Mr Elliot, Mr Banks, and fellow service members for joining myself and Ms Webb on this important day.”
Image Caption: Remembrance Day Services in Coolamon, Coolamon Shire Mayor Dave McCann OAM, Students from Coolamon Central School, Eva Luca and Arron Deshaun and President of Coolamon RSL Sub-Branch Allan Smith.