The Beagle
Feb 21, 2017
The Eurobodalla And Far South Coast National Servicemen’s Association honoured some their recently deceased members on Saturday February 18 at Broulee Memorial Gardens.
The names of eight past members and colleagues John Melton, Robert Tassell, John Durrand, Greg Hazlett, Arthur Ford, Thomas Gosling, William Snodgrass and Mary Deaton where inscribed on the memorial site at the gardens.
The memorial was opened on June 2, 2012, with local Tuross Head retired RAN Commander Geoff Rose officiating and was built by members of the local National Servicemen’s Association.
It comprises an anchor and Wirraway propeller, both supplied by Shoalhaven Nashos, and a bronze slouch hat which was presented by Broulee Memorial Gardens, all of which represent the three military forces.
Granite name plaques set in a pleasant, landscaped garden setting complete the memorial.
Sub Branch President, Peter Wilson welcomed guests who attended to view their family members name being installed.
The Reverend Linda Chapman offered a prayer for those who served.
Phillip Testaz recited the National Servicemen’s Ode and Garry Robertson played the Reveille.
Paul Pereira presented a brief history of the groups activities ranging from their regular monthly meetings and outings for members and partners to their organisation arranging a flyover of a Hercules C130 aircraft for the Centenary Anzac Day services in 2015, and noted further support when two Bell RAN helicopters year passed over nine South Coast towns last year during Anzac Day ceremonies.
The group is also taking an active part in supporting the Saluting John Monash program with the aim of this outstanding WW1 General gaining elevation to the rank of Field Marshall hopefully on November11, 2018.