‘Warmed by the embrace of the dear lost of the Montevideo Maru’ – Hon Kim Beazley
MONDAY 21 JUNE proved an historic day with Australia’s Parliament for the first time offering regrets for the Montevideo Maru tragedy.
The Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and Minister for Defence personnel, Hon Alan Griffin, expressed regret to 350 veterans, relatives and friends gathered in Parliament House on behalf of the Australian Government and the Australian Parliament.
“I would like to express our sincere regret and sorrow for the tragedy that occurred with the sinking of the Montevideo Maru on 1 July 1942,” Mr Griffin said.
“I would especially like to acknowledge the great emotional suffering of the families and friends they left behind. These people endured many long and painful years waiting for news of their loved ones and they deserve to be remembered.”
Mr Griffin said the Australian Government will continue to work with the Rabaul and Montevideo Maru Society to ensure the Montevideo Maru remains a part of the nation’s living history.
Shadow Minister, Louise Markus, said it was an “important day, tinged with sadness for survivors and families of the lost.
“Equally, it is a day for Australia to remember and commemorate those who gave their lives and who paid the ultimate sacrifice. Sixty-eight years is a long time to wait for such a moment,” she said.
Society president Keith Jackson paid tribute to “all those other people who refused to let the flame be extinguished”.