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Benalla honours Hec Waller and those lost on the HMAS Perth and USS Houston
At 10am on Sunday, February 25, the Benalla community gathered to remember local hero Hec Waller and those lost at the Battle of Sunda Straight, specifically the crew of HMAS Perth and the USS Houston.
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Benalla RSL president Paul Hartland opened proceedings by welcoming attendees to the service.
This is the third time it has been held, and Mr Hartland said, moving forward, he would be looking to make it a bigger annual event, which would be held on March 1 each year.
“That is the actual anniversary of the sinking of the HMAS Perth and USS Houston,” Mr Hartland said.
He felt this annual event is important as Hec Waller's achievements can be overshadowed by the legend of Weary Dunlop.
“They are both Benalla boys who contributed a great deal to this country, and they should both be remembered.
“I was very happy with the turnout today, but as I say, the hope is, as we have more of these, that more and more community members come and take part.”
Mr Hartland spoke of the significance of the three flags on display at the service.
“The Aussie and US flags are to represent the HMAS Perth and USS Houston,” he said.
State Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland attended the service and laid a wreath.
“It was an honour to be a part of the incredibly moving service in Benalla this weekend alongside RSLs from across our region,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Together, we paid tribute to the incredible bravery and sacrifice of those who fought in the Battle of Sunda Strait.
“The HMAS Perth, under the command of local hero Captain Hector Waller, lost 350 brave souls that fateful day.
“Their courage and sacrifice will forever be remembered.
“Right across the region the connection to our incredible military is clear, from the inspirational story of Captain Waller to the thousands of personnel who have and continue to call Puckapunyal home.”
“And we also have the Australian white ensign, which is also known as the Australian naval ensign or the Royal Australian Navy ensign.”
Guest speaker at the service was executive officer of HMAS Cerberus, Commander Jason Grivas.
He gave a touching speech on the life of Hec Waller, the battle of Sunda Strait, and shared stories from the fateful day the HMAS Perth and USS Houston were lost.
State Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland attended the service and laid a wreath.
“It was an honour to be a part of the incredibly moving service in Benalla this weekend alongside RSLs from across our region,” Ms Cleeland said.
“Together, we paid tribute to the incredible bravery and sacrifice of those who fought in the Battle of Sunda Strait.
“The HMAS Perth, under the command of local hero Captain Hector Waller, lost 350 brave souls that fateful day.
“Their courage and sacrifice will forever be remembered.
“Right across the region the connection to our incredible military is clear, from the inspirational story of Captain Waller to the thousands of personnel who have and continue to call Puckapunyal home.”
Editor