Ernie Miller with Cr Dick Ellis (Mayor, East Gippsland Shire)
Saturday March 19. 2011 was a great day in the continuing work of the Bendoc Community to preserve and recognise the history of the area. A large gathering saw the unveiling of a brass plaque to commemorate the servicemen from the Bendoc are who served in the Second World War. The plaque is an addition to the Bendoc Memorial Wall, many of those whose names appear on the plaque are descendants of the pioneers who have plaques on the Memorial Wall.
The Bendoc Progress Association Inc received a grant from the Department of Veterans Affairs under The Saluting Their Service which supports projects and activities that directly commemorate Australia?s servicemen and women who served in wars. The grants also promote appreciation and understanding the role of those who served played in shaping the nation.
Bendoc & District WWII Honour Roll
Under threatening skies, over 70 people travelled from near and far to be part of this commemoration. Guests included the Mayor of the East Gippsland Shire, Councillor Dick Ellis and one of the veterans named on the plaque, Ernie Miller, who at 94 travelled with his family from Pambula where he lives.
The President of the Bendoc Progress Association opened the proceedings welcoming the Mayor, Ernie Miller and guests. He provided a background on the challenges involved to find as many of the descendants of the servicemen welcomed those who made the journey some from Sydney, Bowral, as well as Canberra, East Gippsland and the NSW coast.
The Mayor, praised the work of the Community and Bendoc Progress Association staff to achieve this milestone.
He then unveiled the plaque with Ernie Miller, which was greeted by applause by the audience.
Rev Bruce Gallacher, then offered a prayer of thanks to all who had served in all wars, to make this nation the great place it is.
The gathering then adjourned to the Bendoc Community Hall for a fabulous buffet lunch, which was thoroughly enjoyed by all.
Many, many thanks to all involved.