Tribute to Jewish servicemen and women
1000 people will join Prime Minister Tony Abbott at Sydney’s Great Synagogue on Sunday to pay tribute to the Jewish men and women who have served in Australia’s armed forces and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.
Sir John Monash…commander at Gallipoli
2000 Jewish Australians enlisted in World War I – 13 per cent of the Jewish community – and 250 fought at Gallipoli, of whom 38 were killed in action or died of their wounds.
General Sir Monash, who went on to become a leader of the Australian Jewish community, stood out among the 176 Jewish soldiers who held the rank of Commissioned Officer.
The dignitaries will include NSW Governor David Hurley, NSW Attorney-General Gabrielle Upton, leading Australian Defence Force personnel and other government ministers and MPs.
Event Committee chair Garry Browne said the participation of so many high-profile dignitaries is “reflective of the importance of this event. They acknowledge the involvement that the Jewish community has had in so many theatres of war, and that we are always there to stand up and support our country.”
The event will feature an audiovisual presentation, joint schools choir, pipers, drummers, wreath-laying and representatives from the 3rd Rose Bay Judean Scout Group. 100 limited-edition slouch hats in the style worn by World War I Diggers have been made available for sale.
The ceremony will be held on Sunday May 3 at 3pm at The Great Synagogue, Elizabeth Street, Sydney CBD.
