The forging of an important alliance

Canberra — 6 May 2010

Ambassador Bleich lays a wreath at the monument commemorating the Battle of the Coral Sea for the 68th anniversary with Mrs. Bleich and Assistant Secretary Kurt Campbell.

On a crisp autumn afternoon, Australians and Americans gathered at the Australian-American Memorial at Russell Hill to commemorate the 68th anniversary of the Battle of the Coral Sea. Governor General Bryce and Ambassador Bleich were joined by political and military representatives of both nations to lay wreaths in honor of those who lost their lives in the battle that saved Australian shores from the Japanese Imperial Navy and helped to cement the relationship between our to countries.

Ambassador Bleich delivered President Obama's remarks commemorating the occasion, and Dr. Mike Kelly conveyed Prime Minister Rudd's statement and his own personal reflection on the value and importance of the alliance.

The commemoration is held annually by the Canberra Division of the Australian American Association.