Battle of Coral Sea veterans to be honored in NYC

It has been described as “the battle that saved Australia.” The May 4-8, 1942, Battle of the Coral Sea between U.S.-Australian forces and the Japanese Imperial Navy was not only a defining moment in World War II, it also forged an alliance between two nations that continues today.

U.S. and Australian veterans of the Battle of the Coral Sea are being called to action once again, this time for a 75th anniversary commemoration at the USS Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum in New York City.

John Berry, former U.S. ambassador to Australia who now serves as president of the American Australian Association, says as many as possible Battle of the Coral Sea veterans and one family member can receive expenses-paid travel and housing to the event, scheduled for May 4, from 6 p.m. until 10:30 p.m.

The Coral Sea veterans will also have head-table seating among national military dignitaries, veterans representatives and elected officials scheduled to attend.

Those wishing to attend are encouraged to contact Debbie Chappel by email at debbie.chappel@aaanyc.org or by phone at (212 ) 338-6860, ext. 203, before March 1. To learn more about the American Australian Association, visit www.americanaustralian.org.