Aussie naval ships arrive in Ambon

JAKARTA: Australian naval ships HMAS Launceston and HMAS Wollongong arrived in Ambon yesterday for the annual pilgrimage of Gull Force veterans who fought in the region during World War II, Antara reported.

The Australian embassy said the commemoration would be held tomorrow at the Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery in Ambon.

A number of Australians under the Gull Force fought and died in Ambon during the World War II.

The ceremony will be led by Australian Ambassador to Indonesia John McCarthy.

HMAS Wollongong and HMAS Launceston are commanded by Lt. Commander Steve Duffy and Lt. Commander Andrew Belton respectively.

Naval attach to Indonesia Captain Ramsay and the ships' commanders would call on some officials in Ambon, including the mayor and military officials.