The sacrifices made by our forefathers during times of conflict, especially during the Second World War, should not be taken for granted or forgotten because their efforts brought about the freedom now experiences in the country, which is something that must be protected always. That was the message from the Governor General of Papua New Guinea (PNG), Grand Chief Sir Bob Dadae when commemorating the 42nd Remembrance Day this morning at the Ela Beach Remembrance Park, Port Moresby. The Governor General said that the 23rd of July, the date marking Remembrance Day, is significant to PNG because it was on this day 81 years ago that Papua New Guineans serving under the Australian Army, made their mark in the defence of Australia and its territory, now PNG. “Today, 23rd of July is a unique day in Papua New Guinea’s history. It is the day in 1942 that a 35- men platoon from the Papuan Infantry Battalion for the first time in history, fired on advancing enemy forces at Awala village along Kokoda,” said the Governor General. “We gather here today to remember the sacrifice of these men; these men were simply performing a duty to serve.” Sir Dadae said their involvement in the defence in 1942 is the reason why PNG stands as a modern and rapidly developing nation today. “The foundation of our nation stems from the legacy of those we remember today, and it is our duty to ensure that there sacrifice continues to be remembered and honoured, making their legacy truly become our inspiration,” he said. However, he said the sad thing today is that the freedom that these Papua New Guineans fought for, is taken for granted and not honoured. “I say this in light of the current breakdown and lawlessness in our society today, ongoing ethnic violence in major urban and rural areas, gender-based violence, and official and institutional corruption.” Drawing on the inspiration from these brave Papua New Guineans’ service, the Governor General appealed to the people strictly observe, uphold Christian and ethical values in the communities and with that, he appealed to all Papua New Guineans to denounce all forms of violence, saying that a society that is free of crime and violence is conducive for good economic growth and development. “In commemorating the 42nd Remembrance Day today, may the legacy of our war heroes inspire us to put our country ahead of ourselves and do all we can to strive for lasting peace and harmony for our beautiful nation. God bless Papua New Guinea, lest we forget.” Meanwhile, the 42nd Remembrance Day commemoration was attended by heads of the diplomatic corps, the representatives of international organizations and agencies, and the public. This year’s Remembrance Day these is “Their Legacy, our Inspiration. Lest We Forget.