Recognizing Ipswich, Queensland, Australia, on the occasion of the 40th Anniversary Memorial Service in honor of the crew of the USS Frank E. Evans.
Impact
The resolution highlights the historical significance of the USS Frank E. Evans, a destroyer built in 1944 that served valiantly in multiple conflicts, including World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. Importantly, the bill seeks to acknowledge the memory of the sailors who perished in an accident that occurred during a multinational military operation. It serves to raise awareness about their sacrifice and the continued efforts of the USS Frank E. Evans Association in commemorating these lost sailors.
Summary
SCR26 is a concurrent resolution recognizing the City of Ipswich, Queensland, Australia, for hosting a memorial service in honor of the crew of the USS Frank E. Evans. The resolution commemorates the 40th Anniversary Memorial Service, which will take place on June 3, 2009. This event is particularly significant as it honors the 74 United States sailors who tragically lost their lives during the collision of the USS Frank E. Evans with the HMAS Melbourne on that fateful date in 1969.
Contention
While the resolution appears to focus on memorializing the fallen, it also subtly touches upon broader themes of military honor and remembrance. The bill is a unifying gesture that reflects the ongoing relationship between the United States and Australia, showcasing a sense of camaraderie that has developed over more than two centuries of cooperative naval service. By recognizing the contributions and sacrifices of service members, the resolution emphasizes the importance of remembering those who have served and the need for acknowledgment of their sacrifices within historical contexts.