By ORCHY REX
ACTING Governor General Job Pomat has called on Papua New Guineans to honor the memories of PNG’s war heroes by upholding the values they fought for – unity, discipline, and national pride – during his Remembrance Day address yesterday.
Speaking before veterans, dignitaries and the public, Mr Pomat reflected on the sacrifices made by the country’s unsung heroes during World War 2.
“We pay our respects to those whose lives were affected by the war; the ordinary people from our villages who took part in battle, who carried the wounded, who carried supplies, and those who acted as lookouts or guides,” he said.
Mr Pomat acknowledged the vital role played by local people who knew the terrain better than anyone and contributed tirelessly to the war efforts despite having no recognition or reward.
“Who better knew of the terrain and the best routes than our people, who was fiscally able to traverse the mountains, rivers, and jungles of this land while carrying a heavy load?”
He added that many wartime heroes died nameless, their stories untold and their families unknown but their contributions were nothing short of divine duty.
“Many of them died without telling us their names, or where they came from, or who their families are, and what their dreams were,” he said. “Their will was nothing more than the orders they received from God,” Mr Pomat said.
“Today, it is hard to imagine how such values that are so inherent in our people, during the time of war and even peacetime, would crumble in the face of modernity and development,” he said. This is not the kind of society and community our heroes fought for.”
The Acting Governor-General urged leaders and citizens to live up to the legacy of the past generations by building a disciplined, respectful, and unified society.
“They fought for a society that is disciplined and well-ordered, where families are protected, leaders are respected, women and girls are cared for, youths are well-behaved, and children are groomed to become better citizens.
“Let us not disappoint our forefathers. Their sacrifice is a wish for lasting peace and harmony. Let it not be in vain. Let it be the foundation for us to put aside our differences… and work together in peace as citizens.
“Thank you for this important historical occasion and may you all and your families continue celebrations in remembrance of the men who gave their lives in order that we could see another day. Lest we forget,” Mr Pomat said.