- Author
- Letter Writer
- Subjects
- History - WW2, Letter to the Editor
- Tags
-
- RAN Ships
- HMAS Warramunga I, HMAS Warramunga II
- Publication
- March 1996 edition of the Naval Historical Review (all rights reserved)
We also provided an extensive pictorial record of the many memorials, marches and references (street names etc) to Warramunga which existed throughout Australia. We told the exploits and story of the ship during World War II and Korea and of the pride our association has in the name of the ship to the extent that our members who all served on board during the life of the ship still number nearly 600. They were made aware that we also spoke on behalf of a great many others who wished to retain the traditional spelling of the name Warramunga for one of the new ships of the ANZAC class.
Pride, tradition and the importance of the sea were the reasons behind our request to use the old spelling. This was dearly understood by those who attended, and whilst on completion we offered to leave them for any discussion they might wish to have amongst themselves, this was not considered necessary. Billy Hayes went so far as to comment that it was a compelling address which he understood. Rosemary Plummer addressed the Warumungu people in their own dialect and sought the individual opinions of the Elders. They were unanimous in their agreement to use the old spelling of Warramunga and there was no dissenting voice.
A clear and unequivocal agreement to this effect was signed on completion of the meeting. This I have the pleasure of enclosing for your consideration and any further action which may be appropriate.
J.L.W. Merson Commodore RAN (Rtd)
President – HMAS WARRAMUNGA VETERANS’ ASSOCIATION
