Dear Editor,

It is appropriate and gratifying that Solomon Islanders are reminded of the outstanding bravery of the late Sir Jacob Vouza, GM and all those veterans, from Guadalcanal and Malaita and the other provinces, who displayed similar courage during the Japanese occupation of the islands during the second world war.

As Police Commissioner, and as a token of remembrance, I organised a ceremony each year at the Rove monument (1997-1999).

The Solomon Islands Police Band and senior officers attended, as well as members of the government, diplomatic corps and members of the public.

Sir Jacob's son, the late David Vouza, laid the first wreath followed by myself on behalf of the police force.

Sir Jacob was the most highly decorated member of the police in the Solomon Islands, having served in the Proctectorate Armed Constabulary, the forerunner of the present day Solomon Islands Police Force.

I am not sure whether a similar commemorate ceremony is still held annually at the Rove monument, but it would be a pity if the self-sacrifice and heroism of the war time veterans was not honoured in a similar manner.

Your article on the significance of the Rove monument to the late Sir Jacob Vouza is timely and should serve to remind us all of the strength of the human spirit and one's capacity to overcome the greatest difficulties.

I very much hope the same displays of courage, fortitude and humility, as exemplified by the war time veterans, will prevail during testimony to be given at the forthcoming Truth and Reconciliation hearings.

The Solomons needs the lasting peace and prosperity that Sir Jacob, and his like, fought so hard for all those years ago.

Lest we forget.

Yours sincerely,
Frank Short