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Monsta memorial
By Flt-Lt Lauretta Webster
Edition 1173, August 23, 2007 |
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Lest we forget: A memorial service is conducted for Cpl Stuart “Monsta” Jones who was killed in Timor-Leste seven years ago.
Photo by LS Kade Rogers |
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A SOLDIER killed in Timor-Leste during an accidental shooting seven years ago has been honoured by current members of the International Security Force (ISF).
On August 9 members of the ISF honoured the memory of Cpl Stuart “Monsta” Jones at a memorial service in Raefun, about 10km from the West Timor border in Timor-Leste.
Cpl Jones died seven years ago as a result of an accidental discharge of a weapon while on operational service.
Suzie Sheather, an Army reservist and the partner of Cpl Jones, was flown to the memorial site for the service and spoke fondly of how she remembered him.
“Words just don’t express what it means to be here today. Stu was so passionate about coming here and now I can see why,” she said.
“He may have died young, but such bright shining lights cannot shine forever. Being here today epitomises what Stu loved about the Army and what I love about the Army. In the Army, we never forget.”
WO2 Phil Hay, who served with Cpl Jones in 2000 with 2 Cav Regt and who organised the service, presented the eulogy and gave a tribute to his mate.
“The people of Raefun, hold Stuart’s memory as their own, and are most grateful of the commitment and sacrifices that Australia’s men and women have made to give their fledgling country a fighting chance for peace,” WO2 Hay said.
“Monsta, mate, the Royal Australian Armoured Corps will never forget you, I will never forget you, keep watching over us, and guide us through whatever lies ahead.”
Locals from the small village swamped the area and shared in the tribute. Their memories of the Australian are very fond and, as a sign of respect, they maintain the memorial site.
Cpl Jones was with 2 Cav Regt serving with the 6RAR battalion group. He was the patrol commander of a section of five reconnaissance scouts when the accident occurred.
The service was also attended by Australian Ambassador Margaret Twomey, ISF Commander Brig John Hutcheson and a small number of ISF troops. |
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