Remember the day American forces first landed here? The Glebe Island Memorial marks that pivotal moment. It stands as a testament to a strong alliance.
This memorial commemorates the first landing of American Armed Forces at Port Jackson. That happened on March 28, 1942 during World War II. The Maritime Services Board of NSW and the NSW Department of Railways jointly erected it. Premier of New South Wales Sir William McKell unveiled it on November 26, 1946.
The M.S.B. Board pledged to maintain the Glebe Island Memorial forever. They also promised to lay wreaths each year during Australia-America Week. From 1946 to the 1980s, they held a ceremony every year during Coral Sea Week. This was close to May 30, America’s Memorial Day. It mirrored Australia’s Anzac Day.
During the war, over 1,000,000 American servicemen passed through Port Jackson. They transported 5,000,000 tons of U.S. war material mainly via the Glebe Island wharfage area. The M.S.B. and the Department of Railways handled it all.
The Glebe Island Memorial has three steps. Two flagpoles stand behind it. It is the focal point of Monument Lookout. This small paved area sits at the top of the hill on Sommerville Road.
Looking back across the old Glebe Island wharfage area, you see container and car storage terminals. Johnston’s Bay and Millers Point come into view. The Sydney Harbour Bridge completes the vista.
Redevelopment led to the Glebe Island Memorial’s relocation to its present position.
Plaque 1 commemorates the first landing of U.S. Armed Forces at the Port of Sydney. It notes the personnel and material transported by the NSW Department of Railways. Roy L. Schuyler, Colonel Infantry U.S. Army Commanding is mentioned. Also George H. Faulks ESQ. President Maritime Services Board New South Wales and T. J. Hartigan ESQ. Commissioner Department of Railways New South Wales.
Plaque 2 states that The Hon. W.J. McKell K. C. M.L.A. Premier of New South Wales unveiled the memorial on November 28, 1946.
From this vantage point, reflect on the sacrifices made. Remember the strong bond between Australia and America. The Glebe Island Memorial stands as a lasting symbol of that alliance.