The Perth Mint Remembrance wall marks WWI centenary
The Perth Mint has installed a Centenary Poppy Wall of Remembrance at its East Perth heritage grounds to commemorate 100 years since the end of World War I.
From Monday 9 to Sunday 29 April, members of the public are encouraged to visit the Mint to place a red poppy on its memorial to help build a poignant tribute to the service men and women who fought gallantly for our freedom.
Mr John McCourt, Chief Executive Officer RSLWA places the first poppy on The Perth Mint Centenary Poppy Wall of remembrance with Alison Puchy, Perth Mint Group Manager, Shop and Exhibition.
For the soldiers who were fortunate enough to return home from the Great War, and each campaign since in which Australia has been involved, they have found solace in the Returned and Services League (RSL).
In support of the RSL’s mission to preserve the memory of military personnel and provide welfare, advocacy and community to them and their families, the Mint has purchased 4,000 poppies from the WA State branch which it is handing to patrons so they may pay their respects and be part of this worthy engagement.
With its history dating back to 1899, The Perth Mint like so many other organisations was also touched by conflict with ordinary men called to do and endure the extraordinary.
Twenty two staff members renounced their civilian duties at the Mint to defend their country during WWI and a further 18 men served in WWII. Sadly, 5 men lost their lives in total and many more were wounded, allowing only 14 to return to their former jobs. Inspired by their self-belief, endurance and bravery, the Mint honours them all with plaques set into its heritage building’s limestone façade.
Perth Mint Chief Executive Officer Richard Hayes said that the Mint is proud of its connection to the original Anzacs, and wishes to recognise the contribution members of the Defence Force and its support services have made on behalf of all Australians.
“To observe the spirit and sacrifices of the Anzacs, the Mint will be open on April 25 from 12pm to 5pm and will offer complimentary admission to our exhibition for all active and retired military personnel,” said Mr Hayes.
The Mint is also marking the WWI Centenary anniversary this month with the release of the final commemorative coins from its five-year ANZAC Spirit 100th Anniversary Coin Series.
Created in collaboration with the Australian War Memorial and launched in 2014, the commemoratives tell the story of Australia’s involvement in the Great War.
Annual issues of the limited edition ANZAC Spirit 1oz and 1/2oz pure silver and 1/4oz gold coins, can be purchased from The Perth Mint on Hay Street, East Perth, or online at perthmint.com.
As Anzac Day 2018 approaches, The Perth Mint invites everyone to contemplate the sacrifices of all whom have served this country with the simple and heartfelt gesture of placing a poppy on its Centenary Poppy Wall.
LEST WE FORGET.
