AWM Plaques unveiled

Members of the FFFAIF were present at the Australian War Memorial on Tuesday 14 February for the dedication of commemorative plaques for the 2nd, 13th, 34th and 54th Australian Infantry Battalions. FFFAIF member and author of Our Gift to the Empire 54th Australian Infantry Battalion Ross St Claire had the honour of unveiling the plaque for the 54th Battalion.

The event was presided over by AWM staff including Acting Director Nola Anderson, and an audience of around 100 people heard speakers including Major Robert Kear (Ret’d) (President, Friends of the 2nd Battalion), Barney Moore (2/2nd Battalion Veteran) and Lieutenant Colonel Laurie Kelly AM RFD ED (Ret’d).

The four plaques were dedicated by Chaplain Catie Inches-Odgen (Staff Chaplain Army Headquarters).The Last Post and the Rouse were played by bugler Corporal Matthew Creek (band of theRoyal Military College Duntroon). Both of whom participated in the dedication of the Fromelles (Pheasant Wood) Military Cemetery on 19 July 2010.

The plaques will be laid in their permanent position in the Memorial’s Sculpture Garden which is located to west of the main building. This garden has been designed to provide a place for quiet contemplation of the sacrifice of the many Australians who have died in war.

The photos in this report were kindly provided by FFFAIF member Robyn Ward.
For more photos of the occasion visit the Australian War Memorial flickr uploads by clicking here.

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If you have always dreamt of visiting the hallowed ground in the footsteps of the Diggers of the Great War, we can get you there! There are still places available on the 2012 FFFAIF Commemorative Tour. Book now and join the unforgettable experience. Contact secretary@fffaif.org.au today for further details.

 

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