We remember our New Zealanders lost at war and honour
our returned service personnel.
It was a stunning morning at the Prebbleton Cenotaph at 9 am 25th April 2022, ANZAC morning
The annual ANZAC Service was scaled back this year in consideration of the elderly and vulnerable within the community that usually attend. Plus the high amount of Covid circulating within the district deemed it too much of a risk.
Usually, the service brings road closures and 500+ service sheets are usually handed out to groups of 2 or more. Locals were encouraged to commemorate differently this year, be wary of the vulnerable, social distance and wear a mask when in groups.
A small group gathered as wreaths were laid by representatives from the Selwyn District Council, Returned Services Association, Prebbleton Association, and Prebbleton Public Hall Society Inc. in a very brief service led by Deputy Mayor Malcolm Lyall.
I'm sure the sound of the trumpet echoed in the crisp morning air throughout the township as the Last Post was played perfectly and the flag was lowered to half-mast. A moment of silence was observed as our thoughts were on those lost at war, those who returned and those currently at war The flag was then raised to Reveille
Along with poppies, a few more tributes had been left by the community, with more coming throughout the day.
Although central Christchurch’s dawn memorial service had been cancelled people were encouraged to commemorate the day with family and friends in other ways. Whether you were in your local area or away for the weekend...
Lay a poppy at local war memorials throughout the day
Visit local cemeteries and visit the graves of the returned service personnel
Bake some Anzac biscuits and learn about the history of these biscuits
Make some homemade poppies to take to the memorial
Go online to NZ Defence Force website for some helpful information and downloads at http://www.nzdf.mil.nz/.../programmes-and.../anzac-day/
They shall not grow old,
As we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them,
nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun
and in the morning;
We will remember them.
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