Caroline Hammat
Members of the RSL Millicent sub branch joined Her Excellency the Honourable Frances Adamson AC, Governor of South Australia last Thursday for a wreath laying ceremony at the Cross of Sacrifice.
The Governor had been invited to attend next week’s centenary celebration of the unveiling of the town’s cenotaph but due to other commitments is unable to attend the December 5 event.
RSL Millicent sub branch president, Chris Mathias welcomed the governor and her husband Rod Bunten, Mayor Des Noll, CEO Ben Gower and members of the RSL Millicent sub branch who were also in attendance.
Governor Adamson then delivered an address to those in attendance.
“We are gathering within a few days of the centenary of the establishment of your dedication for the cross of remembrance, made possible through public donations” she said.
“It was Lieutenant General Sir Tom Bridges Governor of the day, who himself served, who was here on that day.
“Your ceremony on the fifth is an occasion of remembrance, of acknowledgement of sacrifice of those wonderful young men from this district.
“Part of an enormous Australian contribution to the first World War and the names that were etched on that memorial were intended to be the only ones ever etched, but of course the second world war.
“Men from this district stepped up and again more names were etched in your memorial.
“They are not just names on a memorial, they are people who are actively remembered in your district.
“I speak not just as Governor but as a former diplomat, these cenotaphs, the cross of sacrifice here in Millicent are a reminder of the importance of acting actively to preserve peace.
“Even as we acknowledge the sacrifice of those who have enabled us to enjoy the freedoms of today.”
The last post was played followed by a minute’s silence before Governor Adamson and Mr Bunten laid a wreath on the steps of the cross.
Once the ceremony concluded RSL Millicent members joined the Governor, Mr Bunten, Mayor Noll and Mr Gower in the Somerset Hotel’s newly refurbished Lane Bar for afternoon tea.
Later that evening Governor Adamson visited Kangaroo Inn Area School to celebrate the school’s 60th presentation night.
“They are a wonderful little school and we are joining them on what will be a very happy occasion.
“I’m trying to visit schools wherever I go because young people are our future, so tonight will be special.
It is Governor Adamson’s first visit to Millicent as Governor.
