Lost but not forgotten. That’s the message etched into the heart of the HMA Submarine AE1 Plaque. We stand before it now a silent tribute to courage and sacrifice. This plaque isn’t just a piece of metal. It’s a window into a pivotal moment in Australian naval history.
The HMA Submarine AE1 was Australia’s first submarine. She had a short life. A tragically short life. Lost at sea off the coast of Rabaul New Guinea in 1914. All 35 crew members perished. Australians British and one New Zealander. Their names are listed on this very plaque. A somber roll call of the fallen.
The AE1 vanished mysteriously. A two-day search yielded nothing. For decades the submarine’s fate remained a haunting enigma. Several searches were launched over the years. They all failed to locate the wreck. Until 2017. That’s when a team finally found the AE1 resting on the ocean floor. It was a discovery that closed a chapter of heartbreaking uncertainty.
This plaque commemorates more than just a lost vessel. It speaks of bravery and service. It remembers the men who served on the AE1. They were pioneers. They were part of the Australian fleet that sailed to New Guinea. Their mission was to capture the German colony. The German Pacific fleet had already left the area unbeknownst to the Australians. The AE1 and the HMAS Parramatta were on patrol near the Duke of York Island. The Parramatta returned to harbor. The AE1 never did.
The plaque was erected on September 14 2011. It was unveiled by the Governor-General and the Chief of Navy. The ceremony was a poignant event. Many dignitaries were in attendance. The occasion was significant. It brought together family members veterans and people who wanted to honor the brave souls. The HMA Submarine AE1 Plaque stands as a powerful symbol. It’s a reminder of Australia’s naval heritage. A poignant memorial.
As we stand before the HMA Submarine AE1 Plaque. Let us remember the men who gave their lives. Their service deserves to be remembered and honored. Their sacrifice should never be forgotten. The plaque serves as a powerful reminder. It tells a story of loss courage and unwavering dedication to duty. Their story lives on. This plaque is a testament to their enduring legacy.