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Joan Ellis Awarded Life Membership

April 2014

Joan Ellis, the “darling” of World War II Marines stationed in Kapiti, was recently honoured by the Trust as its first Life Member.

Presenting her award, Trust Chair Jenny Rowan acknowledged Joan as a “touchstone for the Trust and its work.”

The author of two books on World War II U.S.Marines: A String of Pearls and Follow Me Back in Time, Joan was a foundation member of the Trust, and has been frequently honoured by veterans – particularly those in the Second Division, for her work.

Joan Celebrated her 90th birthday in February.  The recent visit of six Veterans to Wellington was a perfect time for the Trust to celebrate her contribution with a birthday dinner at the Wellesley Boutique Hotel.  What better company than a number of men she’d already written about and what better decoration for her birthday cake than a string of icing pearls!

Joan accompanied the veterans throughout their three-day visit to Paekakariki and Wellington.   

 

 

 
 

Joan Ellis with former Marine Claude Bohn and members of the Marines Detachment from the U.S.Embassy – visiting Parliament as part of the Salute 70 Celebrations in 2014

 

Joan Ellis, dancing the night away with members of the U.S.Marine Corps Forces Pacific Band (MARFORPAC) after a ‘sell-out’ concert at Southwards Theatre in May 2012

Joan Ellis with former Marine Claude Bohn

 

 
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