Today is Anzac Day when commeration ceremonies are held at war memorials throughout Australia and New Zealand and in places overseas where Aussies and Kiwis gather. We commemorate all Australians and New Zealanders killed in war and also honour returned servicemen and women.
In Whangarei the RSA (Returned Services Association) has installed memorial crosses to commemorate the 400 servicemen from the district who lost their lives in times of war. This Field of Remembrance is on the lawn surrounding a public carpark and stays in place for 30 days, each day representing one thousand New Zealanders who are buried in 60 countries and the oceans of the world.
"This field is a reminder to all nations that we have not forgotten New Zealand's
significant contribution towards the freedom of others."
Right beside the field of crosses is a small childrens playground. I was trying to focus on the crosses and blur the playground but the camera knew better than me and captured the freedom our children enjoy because of the sacrifice of the ANZACs.
Lest we forget.
Yes. It was a very significant contribution from so small a country. However it wasn't solely for the freedom of others. Had Europe fallen or had the outcome of the war been different I suspect the effect on the liberty of the inhabitants of the ANZAC countries could have been quite significant.
ReplyDeleteHi Pauline! A lovely ANZAC Day tribute. I posted on ANZAC Day too.
ReplyDeleteMy "Ducks on the pond" post was taken at Minnippi Parklands in Tingalpa (we live in Carina)... the Parklands are huge running basically from Wynnum Road through to Meadowlands Road. They are such a beautiful spot to relax, walk, birdwatch and more.