90th Bomb Group Message Board

Message:
On the 25th April 2005 (Anzac day) at Iron Range, Queesland, AUSTRALIA - (now known as Lockhart River) dedicated and commemerated a Memorial Wall for all United States and Australian Defence Units that were based at Iron Range during WWII.

The Australian, American, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Flags flew conjointly togther as one.

The event was extremely moving, inspirational and successful.

Various represenatatives from all over Australia attended including Lt Col D STEWART from the US Embassy, Canberra, Politicians, VIP's, veterans, High ranking Australian defence officers, dignitaries, researchers and community members.

Local aboriginal youth danced cutural traditional dances, and various poems, and hymns were also sung to remember these gallant units and men.

Also dedicated with an official one minute silence was the 2 tragic aircraft crashes that occurred at that location.

The first was a B24 "Bombs to Nippon" Serial 41-23942 400th Squad that crashed on the 16th Nov 1942 during take off tragically taking 11 US Servicemens lives.

The second was another B24 that crashed during takeoff on the 26th December 1942, tragically taking 10 US servicemens lives.

To list the many persons that have assisted in making this Memorial Wall a success would be truly overwhelming, but special mention must be made to Bonnie and Jason DILWORTH must be duly noted.

From your friends in Australia we thank you whole heartedly Bonnie and Jason for your kind assistance, and efforts that you have provided. You truly are an amazing source of assistance and we all thankyou. You also received special mention on the day of your efforts and assistance. Many thanks.

Let it be known that the efforts of Bonie and Jason DILWORTH are truly inspirational to us all. Your
co operation, assistance and continued support is amazing.

The event was overwhelmingly successful, and the Memorial Wall stands today as a beacon of rememberance, friendship, co operation and courage which provides respect for the past and inspiration for the future.

If any veterans or family members of veterans wish to make contact, send further photos, records, or information please do not hesitate to make contact.

Regards and again thankyou to all

Michael Musumeci
Sgt of Police
Lockhart River Police Station
Lockhart River Qld Australia 4871