“Greetings!
David Mattiske, veteran of the Battle of Surigao Strait stated “Let Us Pray That We Never Have Another World War”. Words that are now enshrined in the memorial to that battle.
Indeed, all wars and especially World Wars are indeed horrible enterprises of man . Confederate General Robert E Lee once said, “It is well that war is so terrible, otherwise we should grow too fond of it.”
Hence wars must be prevented. Their root causes must be extinguished. Which is why we have gathered here despite the pandemic to remember a great battle that was fought 76 years ago and to mourn the loss of thousands of men killed from all sides.
To seek and preserve lessons from that historical event.
Never again.
And never again indeed. Because we have learned another important lesson and that is the value of friendship. Today, the four nations that had been locked in mortal combat 76 years ago are now steadfast friends. Our people are kin to each other regardless of what sometimes our respective governments would like to think.
Ready and united to face new challenges from nature or man that may affect our friendship or our safety.
Allies and partners all.
Let that, just like the words of David Mattiske, be cast in metal and stone.
Thank you very much.”
