HMAS SYDNEY II

17 March 2008

STATEMENT BY
HIS EXCELLENCY MAJOR GENERAL MICHAEL JEFFERY
GOVERNOR-GENERAL OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF AUSTRALIA

I took the opportunity this morning to pass on my congratulations to the Minister for Defence, the Government, and all those involved in the successful search for missing Royal Australian Navy cruiser HMAS Sydney II.

I hope today’s news will bring a sense of closure for the relatives of the crew, each with their own story of a lost husband, son or loved one. Over the years, and often alone, they were left to face their terrible grief.

The search by the Finding Sydney Foundation has been a remarkable technological endeavor and it completes another chapter in one of Australia’s most enduring maritime mysteries.

We are again reminded of the terrible cost exacted by war and of the very high price paid to secure the freedom we enjoy today. I express the thanks of the entire nation for that service and that sacrifice.

As we go about our busy lives let us take a moment to honour the memories of the crews of the HMAS Sydney II and the German ship the Kormoran.



17 March 2008
Government House