Anzac services special and unique
At Paraparaumu a new plaque was unveiled honouring pair lost in Vietnam
Anzac Day is always an important time for people across Australia and New Zealand to remember those who are affected by war. Traditionally a time when we remember members of the armed forces who have served our countries in the two World Wars, over the years it has gained a wider meaning as an opportunity to reflect on all of those affected by war.
This year our local services had elements which were special and unique.
At Paraparaumu a new plaque was unveiled honouring Alastair Don and Richard Grigg, who were killed in Vietnam.
Chris Turver’s address as he described being with them when they were attacked was moving and powerful, bringing home the trauma experienced by those who lose their comrades in battle.
In Paekā kā riki, there were also additional servicemen acknowledged, as they are each year.
On June 20, 1943, 10 US Navy personnel drowned during a training accident in bad weather not far from the Memorial Hall, where the community gathers on Anzac Day. The tragedy occurred during the “friendly invasion”, when thousands of US military personnel were stationed in or near Paekā kā riki, mostly at the camp in Queen Elizabeth Park.
This year, David Gehrenbeck, US Embassy deputy chief of mission, spoke and read the names of those who lost their lives.
The Paekā kā riki service is community run, and so huge thanks to Helen Keivom and the volunteers who made it happen once again.
With the important history of the Marines in Paekā kā riki, it was particularly special to welcome the US Marines Corps Forces Pacific Band for a free concert on Saturday, to follow on from their performance in Paraparaumu on Anzac Day.
After their concert, they took the time to look at the historic displays at the Station Museum and posed for a re-creation of a photograph taken of Marines outside St Peter’s Hall during World War II.
With all of the work done by the US Marines Trust and the Station Museum to make sure we remember this important period in our local history, it’s wonderful to host some current personnel and show them how we’re honouring our past.
On another note, congratulations to the team from Kā piti Playhouse on a successful season of Oliver!
It was a truly outstanding production in all regards, from the singing and dancing to the ingenious and effective set design.
I attended with a friend with mobility challenges, and I’d like to thank the volunteers who helped find a wheelchair and suitable seats.
We’re so fortunate to have such an accessible venue at Southward.