Courage found in non-violence choice
The tortures endured by World War I conscientious objectors provided the inspiration for a new children’s book written by Palmerston North prison chaplain Forrest Chambers and his homeschooled daughter Lena.
Chambers told about 40 people at the launch of Remember the Brave he had become uncomfortable about the mood of New Zealand’s WWI commemorations. The emphasis was on the bravery of heroes, the noble fight and the way a nation had grown up. Conscientious objectors and the punishments dished out to them, the horrors of war and the mental suffering of young men forced to go against their sense of morality were missing.
The short story draws from the experiences of conscientious objectors Archibald Baxter, poet James K Baxter’s father, and Mark Briggs, who settled in Palmerston North after the war. Their courage in standing by their convictions despite being tied to a pole, refused food and dragged to the front line is reported through the eyes of a young soldier.
Chambers said the toll on many returned soldiers was disastrous.they suffered ‘‘moral injury’’ knowing they had committed terrible acts following orders in battle.
Chambers told a largely adult audience at the launch it was not the intention to write anything to dishonour the memory of those who fought in good faith. Rather, it was ‘‘just one book’’ trying to provide some balance.
Feilding play
Feilding Little Theatre Players presents Four Flat Whites in Italy. The show at the Feilding Little Theatre opens tomorrow and continues until September 19.
Museums and history
Te Manawa Museum Society and History Places, Manawatu¯ Horowhenua, are holding an AGM at Caccia Birch House on Sunday, September 16, 1.30pm. After the AGM and afternoon tea, urban historian Dr Ben Schrader will talk about his book, The Big Smoke: New Zealand Cities 1840-1920s.