New Peacekeepers Memorial opens next week

A new memorial to recognise the contribution of Australian peacekeepers over the past 70 years will be opened on Anzac Parade in Canberra on Thursday September 14.

The ADF representative on the Australian Peacekeeping Memorial project committee, Air Vice Marshal Peter Yates, said the memorial honoured more than 80,000 Australian military, police and civilian peacekeepers who had served on more than 60 operations over the past 70 years.

Thursday 14 September marks 70 years of Australia’s involvement in international peacekeeping.

The new memorial will be dedicated by the Governor-General Sir Peter Cosgrove, commencing at 10am.

Air Vice Marshal Yates said 14 Australians had died during operations and many carried injuries and scars long after.

“But it’s not only the peacekeepers who are affected by their past missions – it’s also their families who often have to deal with their past service,” he said.

Air Vice Marshal Yates said the design of the memorial had two main elements.

“The memorial consists of two monoliths in a stone courtyard separated by a glowing passage of golden light, forming a powerful entry to the memorial,” he said.

“The light evokes the role of Australian peacekeepers and their help to local populations.

“Written in the pavement are words evoking the qualities and sacrifice of Australian peacekeepers.

“Along the back of the memorial will be a beam recording missions in which Australians have served and an inclined plane to receive wreathes during services.”

The memorial dedication event coincides with Australian Peacekeeping Week, from September 11-16.

The Australian War Memorial will hold a photo display and remembrance service on September 13 and a special Last Post ceremony on September 14.

 

The event program:

• 11 – 16 September – Australian War Memorial Peacekeeping Photographic display
• 11 September – Australian Peacemaker and Peacekeeper Veterans Association National Conference
• 12 September – Australian Peacemaker and Peacekeeper Veterans Association National AGM
• 13 September – Australian War Memorial Peacekeeping Remembrance Service (7.30am)
• 14 September – Dedication of the Australian Peacekeeping Memorial and Commemoration of the 70^th anniversary of Australian Peacekeeping (10.00am)
• 14 September – Australian Peacekeeping Memorial Project – National Peacekeeping Reception
• 14 September – Australian War Memorial Last Post Ceremony dedicated to a Peacekeeper
• 16 September – Police ‘Wall to Wall – Ride for Remembrance’
• 15 – 16 September – United National Association of Australia National Conference

More information available from DVA here.

 

 

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