Photo: Memorial's Dedication Ceremony, 1944

Photographer: Australian Government photograph (PD)
Taken: March 13, 1944
Caption: Memorial's Dedication Ceremony, 1944
Additional Description: Japanese Major General Ishida Ekuma reads the Emperor’s “Mourning Epistle” at the dedication of the memorial. It translates to,

This ceremony invites the souls of those who sacrificed their lives for great benefit to create a presence at the monument. This is evident to you, the honourable, here. Is is regrettable they died as a result of suffering from illness. / I have prayed for the grace of Sri Rattanatrai and the sacred things in the world to protect them. / But despite this fervent effort, it cannot inspire you out of harm’s way, which is deeply saddening. / Their families, too. It is difficult to break their hearts in the sadness of remembering their kins who passed away. / However. Every human being, every name's life, must be as defined by heaven above. / Mourn in the spirit of those who devote their lives to fighting against, Lord Majesty, and bring peace to them. / As a result, the construction of railroads to provide a safe inland connection is another sign for the permanent and peaceful peace on earth. The world has always known for its perpetuality. / In conclusion, may those souls which dwell in heaven come down to dwell in this monument, to protect and inspire peace on this earth.

Present are Allied Prisoners of War, Japanese guards, and local inhabitants.
Submitted: July 2, 2023, by J. J. Prats of Powell, Ohio.
Database Locator Identification Number: p734099
File Size: 0.172 Megabytes

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