War brings many tragedies and today we remember one of the greatest tragedies of the Second World War… The families and associations with connections to the MontevideoMaru have never lost sight of the tragedy that occurred 67 years ago. That some questions concerning the ship may never be answered must also add to their sense of loss. It is something that we as a nation should never forget.
– Alan Griffin MPMinister for Veterans’ Affairs 25 June 2009
The unveiling of a plaque at Subic Bay on Wednesday 1 July 2009 to honour the men of the Montevideo Maru marks a significant step in recognising this great Australian tragedy.
The small but eloquent ceremony at the scenic Hellships Memorial belied the blaze of media and political attention back in Australia.
Veterans’ Affairs Minister Alan Griffin called for the nation to pause and remember the 1053 Australian lives lost. “War brings many tragedies and today we remember one of the greatest tragedies of the Second World War,” he said.
Shadow Minister Louise Markus thanked and acknowledged the men who “made the ultimate sacrifice for this nation, a sacrifice that has contributed to the peace we enjoy today”, and Australia’s Ambassador to the Philippines appended an eloquent footnote when he concluded his speech at Subic Bay with the words:
“This tragedy is not forgotten. The families are not forgotten. These men are not forgotten. We honour them all.”
TV coverage included segments on the main evening news bulletins of the ABC, SBS and Chennel 10. Broadcaster Alan Jones of 2UE was particularly supportive through his nationally syndicated radio program.
Press coverage of the issue was extensive with substantial articles in all major newspapers including The Australian, Age, Sydney Morning Herald and Canberra Times – as well as in many regional papers and on the internet.
Phil Ainsworth and Hellships Memorial founder Randy Anderson examine the Montevideo Maru plaque against the backdrop of the scenic Subic Bay