When
we got off the plane we jumped on another bus to have a tour of Labuan Island
and ended up at the Commonwealth War Cemetery. This is the final resting place
for over 3,000 Australian, British Soldiers and locals.
The
Cemetery is beautifully maintained and it was quite moving as we all formed a
horseshoe around the Cenotaph, Jerome spoke and Brad read out the Ode.
As
we moved around the headstones Jerome explained that of the 3000 bodies buried
here over 1700 of them were unknown. Unfortunately when their remains were
found they were unable to be identified. So sad to see so many headstones
without a name. Also there are still 200 bodies completely unaccounted for. So
sad for these soldiers families.
When
we left here we caught a little speed boat that held all 14 of us and 3 crew
(very squishy) to Menumbok,
We
jumped on a bus and started the 3 hour drive back to Kota Kinabula. It was a
quiet trip home with almost everyone falling asleep. Jerome took us to a lovely
spot on the water where we had satay sticks and the biggest jugs of freshly
squeezed pineapple/mango juice - yum.
On
return to the Le Meredian more afternoon naps. Now we are all in the lobby
waiting to join up with Jerome, Kezz and Uncle for our Celebration Dinner. The
enormity of what we have accomplished is starting to hit us and we are looking
forward to the night together.
Love
to all and talk tomorrow
Donna
xxxxxxx
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