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Bass Point Second World War Memorial, Shell Cove

Bass Point Second World War Memorial, Shell Cove
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Bass Point Second World War Memorial, Shell Cove
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Bass Point Second World War Memorial, Shell Cove
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Bass Point Second World War Memorial, Shell Cove
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Bass Point Second World War Memorial, Shell Cove
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Description / Background

The Bass Point Second World War Memorial is a large sandstone bushrock, with two bronze plaques attached to its front face. The first plaque is inscribed with a dedication to the four Australian soldiers who accidently drowned while rescuing 62 Americans from the shipwrecked vessel “Cities Service Boston” on 16 May 1943. It was dedicated on 8 September 1968. The second plaque is also in honour of these soldiers, with an acknowledgement from four crew of the vessel. It was dedicated on 21 May 1989.

The memorial is located in Shell Cove, NSW. Nearby is a timber sign providing details about the site and the shipwreck. 

Inscription

Plaque 1

[Australian Rising Sun Badge]

They died that others may live

[Names]

At dawn 16th May 1943, the 9000 ton U.S. Tanker “Cities Service Boston” was wrecked on this point during a raging sea.

Thirty soldiers from 6 Aust. M.G. Bn (AIF) with complete disregard for personal safety rescued the entire crew of 62 Americans.

The memorial honours those who showed heroism and particularly those who paid the supreme sacrifice.

Unveiled by Capt. S.D. Matchett (R.A.I) 6 Aust. M.G. Bn Assoc,

City Services Tankers Corporation New York, N,Y.

8 Sept. 1968

Plaque 2

May 21, 1989

With appreciation and respect – Our acknowledgement of these brave men on behalf of the crew of the “Cities Service Boston” we attended a Remembrance Service here on this day –

Ben Helling, Ed Webster, John Wirdzek & Bid Rickert, all of California U.S.A.

Veterans listed on this memorial

Veterans listed on this memorial

Last held rank Given name Family name Conflict/s Service No. Service Campaign Read more
Sergeant W F Allan Second World War, 1939–45 NX133804 Australian Army view
Private G W Pitt Second World War, 1939–45 NX127791 Australian Army view
Private B H Simmons Second World War, 1939–45 NX111705 Australian Army view
Private R J Snell Second World War, 1939–45 NX118174 Australian Army view

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Address
Bass Point Reserve
Bass Point Tourist Road
Shell Cove NSW 2529
Local Government Area
Shellharbour, City of
Setting
Garden/park
Location status
Original location
Memorial type
Stone/bushrock
Recorded by
Ronald L McIntosh
Conflict/s
Second World War, 1939–45
Materials
Metal
Sandstone