Australian Defence Force (ADF) and US Marine Corps (USMC) members came together at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) to commemorate 25 years since the September 11 attacks, honouring those who lost their lives and reflecting on our enduring alliance. 

The ceremony at the first regular season NFL game in Australia brought defence personnel together at a venue with a significant shared military history.

During World War II, the MCG was used to support the training and preparation of Australian and US forces. More than 80 years later, personnel from both nations returned to the same ground, united in remembrance and service.

A triservice flag party carried the Australian national flag and the Australian Defence Force ensign alongside the USMC Color Guard.

Seventy-five ADF personnel worked together to unfurl the Australian flag across the MCG. Above them, the Air Force Roulettes joined four US Marine Corps Ospreys in a special flypast.

ADF Flag Party commander Squadron Leader Troy Cameron said the unfurling reflected the strong relationship between Australia and the US.

“Having Australians from the three services come together to unfurl our national flag was a proud moment. To do it alongside our US counterparts was a powerful reminder that we are stronger when we work together,” Squadron Leader Cameron said.

'The Australia-US alliance is more than agreements and capabilities – it is about people.'

Australian Army member Major Matt Knight said the ceremony reflected an alliance built on people and shared experience.

“The Australia-US alliance is more than agreements and capabilities – it is about people. We have served and continue to serve alongside each other, supported each other and built trust over generations. Today, we were reminded of what we can achieve together,” Major Knight said.

Petty Officer Ryan Attwood from the Royal Australian Navy said the 25th anniversary was a time to remember the human cost of September 11 and the service that followed.

“Twenty-five years on, we remember those who lost their lives, their families and loved ones, and those who served in the years that followed. Standing alongside our American counterparts today, as our services did 25 years ago, was a fitting way to honour their courage and sacrifice,” Petty Officer Attwood said.

For Air Force Roulettes pilot Flight Lieutenant James Dutschke, the combined flypast was a visible expression of the alliance.

“Flying over the MCG alongside our American counterparts was a privilege. Seeing the Australian national flag unfurl below us while our aircraft flew together overhead was a powerful reminder of the partnership between our two nations,” Flight Lieutenant Dutschke said.

With the MCG at capacity for the NFL event, more than 100,000 people gathered for the ceremony in a powerful display of remembrance and reflection.