Memorial Day 2014

Friends, supporters, and members of the public are warmly invited to our Annual Memorial Day Service in Queen Elizabeth Park on Monday May 26 from 10am to 11am with a community morning tea to follow in Fiducia House.

This years’ service will focus on the “heaven & hell” experienced by World War II Marine veterans camped in Paekakariki and Porirua prior to fighting in the Battle of Tarawa November 20-23 1943.

Trust Chair Jenny Rowan says the recent visit of six veterans who lived through these days is a timely reminder of the enduring friendships between Kiwi and American families over 72 years.

“It is also a timely reminder of the heavy toll this battle took on American and Japanese families and those close to them in New Zealand and around the world.”

“We have all been intensely moved by the epic journey these veterans have taken to recover the bodies of 25 of their brothers from Betio on Tarawa Atoll, but there are still almost 500 men ‘missing in action’ and yet to be repatriated,” she said

“This is a grim reminder that the impacts of war can go on for generations.

“It’s now our job to pick up the baton, make sure these men are not forgotten and that their story is told in our community.”

The New Zealand American Association & the Friends of Old St Pauls will also host their annual Memorial Day Service at 12.30pm at Old St Pauls Cathedral in Wellington.