A lucky child survivor of the sinking of the ocean liner Athenia in September 1939
Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd is sending a wreath to Port Adelaide to be floated on the Port River at ANZAC Light on the Water 2010 with 3000 candle-lit cardboard lifeboats made by local school students.
The theme of the annual event this year will be a tribute to all those from all countries lost at sea in World War II, including civilians.
Representatives of the Australian Army, Navy, Air Force, Merchant Navy and the Maritime Union will join local veterans and families at the event on ANZAC Eve, Saturday April 24.
The event will include an all-faiths commemorative service with Port Chaplain Rev Robin Trebilcock and a catafalque party at the Navigator memorial on McLaren Wharf at Timpson Street at 5.50 pm.
Members of the National Servicemen's Association who will participate in the catafalque party at the Navigator memorial
Following a performance by the world-renowned SA Pipes and Drums, a lone piper will lead the catafalque party and an RAN ceremonial unit to the lighthouse for a special display and rifle volley.
Spectators will also be entertained by the Semaphore Choir of Hope and Harmony with an introduction by Rev Ali Wurm.
Speakers will be local Federal Member Mark Butler MP on behalf of Prime Minister Rudd and Veterans Affairs Minister Alan Griffin MP, South Australian Deputy Premier and Treasurer Kevin Foley MP and the Mayor of Port Adelaide Enfield, Gary Johanson.
North Haven Surf Lifesavers will launch the fleet of lifeboats in the Port River as dignitaries and members of the public float wreaths.
ANZAC Light on the Water was voted Port Adelaide Enfield Community Event of the Year in 2009 and is expected to attract a large crowd of veterans and families.
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