The HMAS Sydney II memorial, Geraldton

“In memory of the men lost on HMAS Sydney II 19th November 1941.  Lest we forget.”

She was returning from convoy escort duties to Java when a German raider ship disguised as a Dutch merchant vessel opened fire, off the West Coast of Australia.   The ship was destroyed with the loss of all 645 crew members.

There are 645 birds in the central Dome of Souls representing the number of crew members lost.

The Waiting Woman represents the families who waited for their loved ones to return.

The name, rank and home base of every man lost is etched into the Wall of Remembrance

Interestingly, the HMAS Sydney II was built in Jonathan’s home city of Newcastle upon Tyne.

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