MEDIA RELEASE
30 April 2009
For immediate release
RECOGNITION FOR FUZZY WUZZY ANGELS
The Australian High Commission wants to hear from former “Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels” from August this year, under an initiative announced on 28 April by Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. Mr Rudd made the announcement during the visit to Australia of Papua New Guinea Prime Minister Sir Michael Somare.
Mr Rudd announced that the Australian Government is commissioning special commemorative medallions to recognise the Angels’ assistance to Australians during World War Two.
“We are very happy that we will be able to show our appreciation for these individuals, whose story means so much to the people of Australia,” said Australia’s Acting High Commissioner, John Feakes.
The medallions, featuring the iconic image of a Fuzzy Wuzzy Angel helping a wounded Australian along the Kokoda Track, will be available to PNG citizens who, as civilians, assisted Australian servicemen during World War II. The medallion will also be available to their widows or widowers.
“We are now setting up the process to award the medallions, and will provide more information on how to get in contact with the High Commission a little closer to the time,” Mr Feakes said. “For now, if you know someone who qualifies for this recognition, please let them know about the medallions and ask them to get in touch with us from August onwards.”
Some 55,000 PNG civilians carried supplies, built bases and airfields and evacuated the sick and wounded during the fighting in Papua New Guinea, saving the lives of many Australians.
Media Inquiries: Francina Thomson, Public Diplomacy Officer, T: 325 9333 ext 276