By KATHRYN MACNAMARA
This year marks the 81st Anniversary of the Cowra Breakout. The Cowra POW Breakout occurred on 5 August 1944, when 1,104 Japanese prisoners of war escaped from the POW camp. During the escape and the following manhunt, four Australian soldiers were killed, and 231 Japanese soldiers were killed or committed suicide. The remaining escapees were re-captured and imprisoned. From this event in Cowra’s history, a wonderful relationship now exists between Cowra and Japan.
The Cowra Breakout Association will be holding wreath laying ceremonies on 5th August. Commencing at 8.30am, wreaths will be laid at the Cowra Prisoner of War Camp site, followed by wreath laying ceremonies at the Australian and Japanese War Cemeteries. Members of the Cowra RSL sub-Branch are invited to attend these commemorations.
This year also marks the 80th Anniversary of Victory in the Pacific Day. At 8.44 am on 15 August 1945 the Australian Government received the news that Japan had surrendered, and the Second World War was over. On the morning of 15th August just after nine o’clock, Prime Minister Ben Chifley announced over the radio that Japan would accept the Allies’ ultimatum to surrender, and peace was at hand. August 15th has since been referred to as Victory in the Pacific (VP) Day and has been commemorated by the RSL since 1946.
Cowra RSL sub-Branch welcomes all participants and visitors to the VP Day Memorial Service and wreath laying to be held at the cenotaph at 10.30am on August 15th. Participants in the parade are requested to form up in front of the Cenotaph at 10.30am, wearing full size medals and decorations.
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On 18th August the sub-Branch invites participants and visitors in recognising Vietnam Veterans Day with a commemorative service and wreath laying, commencing at 10.30am. Vietnam Veterans' Day honours the service and sacrifice of Australians who served in the Vietnam War. Over 60,000 Australians served in Vietnam between 1962 and 1975, with 521 losing their lives and around 3,000 wounded. The day is an opportunity to reflect on the bravery, teamwork, and resilience of these veterans and their ongoing legacy.
Again, participants in the parade are requested to form up in front of the Cenotaph at 10.30am, wearing full size medals and decorations.
