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Re-dedication of Private Storey's headstone - Zonnebeke - 30/09/2008

On September 30 1917, 21-year-old Australian soldier Private George Richard Storey fell in the Battle of Polygon Wood, and now his family has been able to pay their respects at his gravesite on the anniversary of his death.

Minister for Defence Science and Personnel, the Hon Warren Snowdon MP, attended the Buttes New British Cemetery, Belgium, where the headstone 'Known unto God' was today re-dedicated to Private Storey.

"This has been a long journey for Private Storey's family, particularly his two nephews who are here today, and I am pleased they now have the opportunity to lay this brave soldier to rest under a named headstone," Minister Snowdon said.

"The commemoration of our war dead is a significant responsibility that the Government takes very seriously, and moments like this confirm the importance of honouring our fallen soldiers."

During the intimate ceremony, the celebrant officially dedicated Private Storey's headstone, and the Australian Army's Major General Mike O'Brien recited the Ode following a moving rendition of the Last Post. The service complemented the full-military funeral which took place when Private Storey's remains were re-interred, along with four of his comrades', last October.

"The ceremony to re-dedicate Private Storey's headstone was a dignified event which recognised his sacrifice on behalf of the Australian nation," Minister Snowdon said.

"The memory of this brave young man, and the loss borne by his family, will live on for future generations, and it was my great honour to join his relatives here today."

Minister Snowdon is in Belgium to attend Private Storey's re-dedication ceremony, and will also take the opportunity to lay a wreath at Menin Gate during the daily commemorative service.

The Last Post by the buglers of the Last Post Association.

 

Thanks to Marnik Vanderper for the pictures.

Deze rubriek staat open voor iedereen. 
Ook jij kunt foto's doorsturen voor de rubriek "Je was er bij". Ons adres: info@westhoek.be

Everyone can send pictures for the pages "You were there". Our address: info@westhoek.be