US links remembered on Memorial Day

Paekakariki School students, from left, Lillias Brown, 12, Hinauri Kingi, 9, and Rowan Smith, 9, with acting US Ambassador Candy Green.

"A story is only a story if it is told," Kapiti Marines Trust chairwoman Jenny Rowan told crowds at Queen Elizabeth Park on Monday morning.

"We shall never forget what has happened on our land and to our people."

As part of local 75th anniversary commemorations of US Armed Forces' encampment in New Zealand, during 1942 to 1944, Ms Rowan was among a collection of guest speakers.

There, she honoured America's annual Memorial Day, dedicated to recognising all US service personal who lost their lives during wartime.

Along with the Kapiti Marine Trust were representative of the United States Embassy, Wellington Regional Council, Kapiti Coast District Council, Paraparaumu RSA, New Zealand MenzShed, Kapiti College and Paekakariki Primary School, the Kapiti Brass Band, Chelsea House Kindergarten and Wellington Tramways.

As well as song, prayer and the laying of wreaths, the morning event included stories of US soldiers who had found temporary homes in Paekakariki when they unexpectedly landed in 1942, to assist with New Zealand's threat of invasion.

"Today we remember with the greatest gratitude and love our servicemen and women, who protected and defended our country in the Pacific war," Ms Rowan said.

"Our story ends abruptly and was often tragic, but is tempered with the birth of lifelong friendships between the United States and New Zealand, and between generations of families and friends."

At the time, when the Paekakariki population was just several hundred, many thousands of marines camped on land in Kapiti; some of who were adopted by local families and invited to share meals.

"For many, these marines became like family."

Sadly, the war in the Pacific saw many thousands of soldiers die, including 10 US sailors who drowned during a tragic beach landing, by the park, in 1943.

As part of Monday's ceremony, a restored marine hut was shared with guests, now located at Queen Elizabeth Park, where US soldiers once camped in similar accommodation.

Three-quarters of a century later, the hut is the refurbished handiwork of Kapiti and Waikanae MenzShed members, and is a reminder of a period strong in Kapiti's history.