Proud Occasion for RC Hamilton
The people of Hamilton have paid a lasting tribute to local World War II veteran and Victoria Cross recipient Edward ‘Ted’ Kenna, by erecting a bronze statue in his honour at the Sam Fitzpatrick Gardens in Hamilton.
Hamilton Rotary Club is proud to be associated with this project. Members Kevin Safe and Peter Schroder worked closely with John Lowcock President of the Hamilton RSL over a two year period to see this joint project come to fruition.
World renowned Melbourne sculptor Peter Corlett was commissioned to produce this larger than life size image after funds were raised through community donations, sale of items of a limited addition memorabilia and funding from the Victorian and Federal Department of Veteran Affairs, Hamilton RSL, Rotary Club of Hamilton, the Kenna family and Shire of Southern Grampians.
Over 500 people including local residents, dignitaries and war veterans from near and far witnessed Dan Tehan Federal Member for Wannon, Hugh Delahunty Minister for Veteran Affairs and Rob Kenna unveil the statue on Friday March 22nd.
Ted Kenna received the Victoria Cross in WW11 for his distinguished and selfless deeds in Wewak New Guinea on 15 May 1945. He was born and lived most of his life in Hamilton. Ted died in 2009 but his memory will live on for many generations.
Rotary continues to work for Peace through Service but also acknowledges the sacrifices made by those who have fought for peace.