They March for Those Who No Longer Can: A Town Remembers Its Veterans
The Combined Services Remembrance Day service in Gisborne on Sunday will honour New Zealand veterans and mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.
Honouring Ken Gordon, Royal New Zealand Navy Veteran
Ken Gordon, a 98-year-old World War II Royal New Zealand Navy veteran, will be recognized at the service held outside the Returned and Services Association (RSA) rooms. This year, he received a framed letter from King Charles. Gordon will attend with his daughter Fiona and son Alister.
"Ken Gordon is a living legend who served on HMNZS Gambia and witnessed the historic moment when the Japanese signed the armistice on USS Missouri in September 1945, ending WWII and bringing peace to the world."
— Jack Donnelly BEM, guest speaker
Guest Speaker and Storytelling
Jack Donnelly BEM, a Navy veteran with 34 years of service, will share Ken Gordon’s vivid and descriptive wartime story during the event.
Other Veterans and Activities
- Tuwhakairiora “Toti” Tukhaka, QSM, Korean War veteran and former trainee of Gordon, will also be present.
- The service will feature a March to Remember by Gisborne veterans, honoring those who can no longer march.
"They march for those who no longer march and in the footsteps of those who are no longer with us. Their pride, discipline and bearing will shine through. We thank them for their service."
— Jack Donnelly BEM
Summary
The Remembrance Day service in Gisborne pays tribute to veterans, especially Ken Gordon, while fostering community respect through storytelling and ceremonial marches.
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