Aussie crew commemorate Pearl Harbor and 9/11

During a port visit to Hawaii, crew from HMAS Brisbane paid their respects to the fallen at the USS Arizona memorial.

CAPTION: Members of HMAS Brisbane’s ship’s company visit the USS Arizona memorial at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Story by Lieutenant Marie Davies. 

The memorial honours more than 1000 sailors and marines who lost their lives during the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941.

The structure stands above the remains of Arizona and serves as a powerful reminder of the tragedy that drew the US into World War 2.

Commanding Officer Brisbane Commander Bernard Dobson and Able Seaman Jessica Brown laid a wreath on behalf of the ship.

Commander Dobson reflected on the significance of the visit, noting the deep connection and shared history of service and sacrifice between the Royal Australian Navy and its US counterparts.

“For many of the crew, it was their first time here, and it was clear how humbled they were standing at a place which embodies the immense loss and resilience of those who gave their lives in service to their country,” Commander Dobson said.

CAPTION: Two members of HMAS Brisbane’s ship’s company salute at the USS Arizona memorial.

Continuing the spirit of mutual respect, Brisbane’s crew also participated in the 9/11 23rd anniversary ‘climb to remember’ at Naval Base San Diego.

Aussie sailors joined US Navy personnel and firefighters to climb the stairs of the Pacific Beacon Towers on base, in honour of the first responders who lost their lives during the World Trade Centre attacks.

Leading Seaman Flynn Selke climbed with his maritime logistics crewmates, completing more than 2000 stairs – equivalent to 110 storeys of the World Trade Centre.

He said it was a privilege to take part in the tribute.

“While I climbed, I kept thinking how tough this would have been in full firefighting gear,” Leading Seaman Selke said.

“I think it’s important we show our support at US memorials to honour those who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty, and also so people can come together to remember these tragedies.”

Brisbane is currently on a five-month deployment at US Naval Base San Diego, aimed at enhancing interchangeability between the Australian and US navies.

During this period, Brisbane will undergo scheduled maintenance, allowing the collaboration between support units from both navies and the execution of joint training and capability development activities.

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