USA & SI COMMEMORATES 73rd ANNIVERSARY OF WWII

The United States of America and Solomon Islands today commemorated the 73rd anniversary of the landing of the US Marines and the Battle of Guadalcanal on August 7th, 1942.

The commemoration began with a ceremony marking the landing of theUnited States marines on Guadalcanal.

Speaking this morning during the commemoration ceremony, Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare says the gathering signify’s two things.

“Our gathering here this morning signifies two things. It is a way for us to pay solemn tribute to the heroes who were engaged in the Guadalcanal Campaign, who demonstrated loyalty to the task they were engaged in and took on the challenge, brave and selfless duty for a global cause I guess to celebrate the achievement of lasting freedom, peaceful coexistence between peoples and between governments around the world in general and in Solomon Islands in particular.”

He adds World war two is significant and is remembered for many reasons.

“World War II is significant and remembered for many reasons which have no direct connection with military objectives, which battles and wars we fought to liberate people from military suppressions to set people free from dictatorial and selfish rulers who wanted to build empires for their own wealth the spiritual prowess, wars we fought in order to protect nation security, promote democratic governance and evil people’s confidence to set their own path to development and prosperity.”

The programs this morning were held at different venues – the United States Memorial, Skyline Drive, followed by a Coastwatchers and Solomon Scouts Memorial Service at the Commonwealth Street, Point Cruz and United States Coast Guard Memorial Service.

The Guadalcanal Day was attended by the Acting Governor General of Solomon Islands His excellency Ajilon Jasper Nasiu, Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare, government officials, Diplomatic Corps, US Marines and hundreds of onlookers.

Meanwhile, Foreign Affairs and Trade Minister Hon. Milner Tozaka says the history of World War two in Solomon Islands is underdeveloped.

Mr. Tozaka made the comment when commemorating the 5th Anniversary of the “Pride of Our Nation” monument service at the Commonwealth Street.

He says there is potential for economic development, adding, unless we know this history and appreciate it, its economic value may be overlooked.

Mr. Tozaka says the Solomon Islands Scouts and Coastwatchers Board ofTrustees recognize this potential and are in the process of developing projects that will boost public understanding about its significant history.

“There is potential for economic development, but unless we know this history and appreciate it, we will not see it as an economic asset to cultivate. We at the Trust recognize this potential and are in the process of developing projects that will boost public understanding of this significant history.”