They march for those who no longer can: A town remembers its veterans
The Combined Services Remembrance Day service in Gisborne will mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and pay tribute to veterans, including the esteemed Royal New Zealand Navy WWII veteran Ken Gordon.
Honouring Ken Gordon
Ken Gordon, aged 98, who served on HMNZS Gambia, will attend the service along with his daughter Fiona and son Alister. He is recognized for witnessing the historic signing of the Japanese armistice on the USS Missouri in September 1945, which ended WWII.
Guest Speaker and Veteran Stories
Guest speaker Jack Donnelly, BEM, a Navy veteran with 34 years of service, will share Gordon’s vivid wartime experiences.
“Ken Gordon’s story is very graphic and descriptive,”
Donnelly said. He described Gordon as a living legend who experienced one of history’s pivotal moments.
Other Veterans Participating
The ceremony will also include Tuwhakairiora “Toti” Tukhaka, QSM, a Korean War veteran and one of Gordon’s former trainees.
March to Remember
A deeply moving part of the service will be the March to Remember by Gisborne veterans.
“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.”
The event honors the courage and sacrifice of past and present servicemen and women in the community.
Author’s summary: Gisborne’s remembrance service honors WWII and Korean War veterans, highlighting Ken Gordon’s historic role and the heartfelt March to Remember for those who served and those who can no longer march.