18 September 2024
Australian and Japanese forces came together to honour the fallen at the I-124 memorial in Darwin during the harbour phase of Exercise Kakadu.
Members of the Royal Australian Navy, Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) and the Australian Japanese Association of the Northern Territory (AJANT) gathered for a wreath-laying ceremony.
President of the AJANT Janet Truong started the ceremony by explaining the history of the memorial, which was commissioned in 2017 on the 75th anniversary of the sinking of Japanese submarine I-124 and the loss of 80 sailors.
She also highlighted significant details of the memorial, including the Pongamia tree planted on site – a healing plant that is native to both countries.
Vice Admiral Omachi Katsushi spoke on behalf of the JMSDF and reiterated the positive relationship between the two countries, a relationship that has been built by mutually beneficial interactions, understanding and cooperation.
“This site is symbolic to all the hard work that has gone into reconciliation after the war,” he said.
“As I looked out over the Pacific Ocean during my flight to Australia, I was reminded that its name, Pacific, originated from the word peaceful, and JMSDF is committed to ensuring it remains a peaceful environment into the future.”
Following the ceremony, the delegations reconvened at the Darwin Cenotaph where further wreaths were laid to acknowledge the sacrifice of Australian servicemen and women.
After the ceremony, Commodore Flotillas Commodore Paul O’Grady accompanied the JMSDF delegation to the memorial walls where he recounted the history and events that the memorial commemorated.
The cenotaph was originally built to remember World War 1, a conflict where Australian and Japanese forces fought alongside each other.
He drew attention to the Japanese battlecruiser Ibuki, which provided protection to Anzac troopships leaving Australia to join the war.
“It is always special to reflect on the sacrifices of our forbearers in the line of duty,” Commodore O’Grady said.
“History teaches us many lessons and one that was highlighted today is the value of trusted friends in times of adversity.”
