Armidale Class Patrol Boat HMAS Larrakia has honoured the 92 Australians who gave their lives during the liberation of the Philippines during World War Two, by participating in the commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Leyte Gulf.
A memorial dedicated to those who lost their lives in the battle was unveiled in Palo, Philippines on 19 October.
The maritime engagement, which is arguably the largest naval battle in history, consisted of four separate maritime engagements between the Australian and United States navies, and the Imperial Japanese Navy and is regarded as a pivotal turning point in the balance of power in the region during the conflict.
Larrakia, with patrol boat crew Attack Four embarked provided a Catafalque Party for the unveiling, and Commanding Officer Lieutenant Commander David McPherson said it was an honour to be involved in such an event.
The RAN’s role in the engagement, in particular in the Surigao Strait, helped turn the tide of the war in this region.
During the course of the Battle of the Leyte Gulf, the United States lost six frontline ships, while the Japanese lost a staggering 26 warships, including four aircraft carriers.
HMAS Australia was damaged by kamikaze attack, killing 30 crew members, including Commanding Officer Captain Emile Dechaineux.
Following the battle and the subsequent heavy losses inflicted upon the Japanese, the Japanese Navy would never again sail with a force as large as it had committed to the Leyte Gulf engagement.
Following the unveiling of the memorial, Larrakia’s ship’s company laid wreaths on behalf of the ship, and the HMAS Arunta, Bataan and Warramunga associations.
Speaking at the event, Australia’s Ambassador to the Philippines His Excellency Mr Bill Tweddell said Australia’s contribution to the liberation of the Philippines was significant, and this memorial was a fitting tribute to those who lost their lives in the battle.
The following day saw another big event marking the commemoration of the landing, this time presented by the Philippines Armed Forces.
Those in attendance included President Benigo S Aquino III, Commander of the US Seventh Fleet Vice Admiral Robert Thomas, USN, Philippines Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces General Gregorio Pio Catapang and all three Filipino Service Chiefs.
Larrakia is currently undertaking a six-week South East Asian deployment and will return to her homeport of Darwin on completion.
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Press release, Image: Australian Navy