More than 100 pupils at Gladstone School observed Anzac Day in all its poignancy alongside several New Zealand Army soldiers from the 1st Signal Regiment yesterday.
Principal Margaret Hyslop said it was an extraordinary privilege to have the soldiers on hand for the educational Anzac Day memorial ceremony, which the school holds each year near the actual day.
She said 106 pupils gathered with teachers and family members at the foot of the school flag pole and the ceremony was played out and explained at each step.
A visiting soldier had outlined the significance of Anzac before the importance of the poppy and Flanders Field also was explained.
The laying of wreaths was covered as well and The Ode, she said, with the national anthem, the lowering of the flag, Last Post, a minute's silence and Reveille were completed and also explained.
