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The
true value of unsung sacrifices
By
AB Simone Spano
INDIGENOUS Service men and women were honoured at a memorial service
in Canberra last month.
As part of a national calender of events celebrating NAIDOC (National
Aboriginal Islander Day of Celebrations) Week 2004, the service
was held at the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Memorial at
Campbell.
Head of DPE, RAdm Brian Adams hosted the event that was attended
by over 80 people including the Director of the Australian War Memorial
and representatives for each of the Service Chiefs.
RAdm Adams reflected on the importance of the commemoration.
“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have made a significant
contribution to the defence of Australia.
This is a way to recognise that contribution,” he said Ex-Navy submariner
David Williams was the guest speaker highlighting the importance
of acknowledging the contribution indigenous Australians have made
to the nation’s history.
“Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have fought alongside
non-indigenous Australians in all conflicts and campaigns from the
Boar War to present day,” he said.
The indigenous community was not given the right to Australian citizenship
until 1967 nor the recognition and entitlements of a service member.
As many indigenous men and women had served in the ADF prior to
this date, historical records of the precise number who have given
military service to Australia remain sketchy.
Figures suggest the number lies between 2000 and 3000, but Mr Williams
contends that there have been a lot more.
“We need to remember and honour the sacrifices of those officially
recorded and those who left only a legacy,” he said.
NAIDOC Week aims to provide Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander
people with the opportunity to promote a greater understanding of
their culture and heritage.
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