Barnaby Joyce (Queensland, National Party) Share this | Hansard source

I concur with the remarks of Senator Faulkner and Senator Minchin. There is nothing more that can be added to what was said by those two gentlemen. I hope that the family of Ted Kenna gets some comfort from those words. The attributes that some people show on the battlefield are remarkable. But sometimes what is even more remarkable is that they come home to live an ordinary life and to love life as an ordinary person. ‘For Valour’ is the inscription that is on the Victoria Cross. Obviously, Ted proved that without any question. The engagement in Papua New Guinea saved Australians from having their homes and hearths occupied by the enemy forces. Those who fought there were a remarkable group of people. As Ted said, he wore his VC for all those who were part of the action that saved our nation from succumbing to the enemy. We recognise that at this time of his passing. We will never forget the sacrifice that was offered by Ted and which was paid by so many others. Because of their sacrifices we have the benefit of sitting in this chamber today.