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The Naval Association

of Australia

CORAL SEA ACTIVITIES - BRISBANE QLD 8-9 MAY 08

The Commander of the US 7th Fleet, Vice Admiral Doug Crowder, USN visited Brisbane and participated in many activities during his stay. He was accompanied by his Fleet Public Affairs Officer, Commander Dawn Cutler, USN; the Flag Lieutenant and various other officers to help smooth his stay.

Some of the activities are recorded in photographs under. There were many more that he participated in during his stay.

On the evening of Thursday 8 May, 2008 a Dining In Night was held at the Officers & Sergeants' Mess, Victoria Barracks, Brisbane. This was a wonderful evening hosted by the Commanding Officer, Naval Headquarters, South Queensland - CMDR Forbes Peters ADC RAN and the Commander of the American Legion Post, Commander John O'Neill. With support from the Australian American Association and many others the evening was truly enjoyable and was a credit to the organisers.

It is good to see the solid support provided by Bundamba Sub Section and the Goodna RSL Sub Branch. Thanks must go to 'Nullarbor' Baker, Mary Kirby, Rip Kirby, Vivienne Stanbury and the members of Bundamba for their organisation and support of these activities. John O'Neill the Commander of the American Legion Post needs to also be singled out for the help he provided.

Congratulations to you all.

An area was dedicated to the memory of the United States Navy and particularly the 7th Fleet activities and was opened at the Brisbane Maritime Museum by VADM Crowder on Friday 8th May during his visit and other ceremonial activities were undertaken.

A tremendous cocktail party was held onboard USS CLEVELAND and another service was held in Newstead Park. Regrettably we could not attend owing to some welfare activities that arose, however those who attended told us that it was a great night and a wonderful commemoration.

Overall, Coral Sea commemorations 2008 in Brisbane and environs were a great success and it was great to see the Commander of the US 7th Fleet back in the town where this Fleet was born in 1943!

© The Naval Association of Australia