Letter to the Editor - Tuesday April 18, 2013

Pushed aside

It was with sorrow and despair that I read the advertisement in the Thursday April 11 Age.

This notice advises that the Anzac Day service at 11am in Kaitaia is cancelled.

Is this any way to treat the memory of our fallen? Women and men, Maori and Pakeha, have given their lives fighting for the standard of living that we now enjoy in New Zealand. How do the wives, husbands, children, and grandchildren who are left behind feel?

What is next? Do we bulldoze the magnificent memorial and angel in Remembrance Park because it is easier to just mow the grass?

If cut-backs were necessary, which I doubt, then cancel the dawn parade. It was most likely too early for the veterans who are left now. Also, if necessary, cancel the ceremonies at Te Kao, Houhora and Mangonui. Then bus these veterans to Kaitaia for one great gathering all together.

Each group would march behind a placard with their area name. I am sure the ATC Squadron would be happy to provide the placard bearers.

This is a significant day of remembrance for New Zealand. It is a national holiday for all.

Anzac Day should be honoured properly and in a dignified manner, not just pushed aside into the too hard basket by some people.

GEORGE SMALE

Flying Officer (retd)

RNZAF

Kaitaia