Our New Zealand pals

Our NZ pals held a 51st anniversary at Papanui RSL, Chrischurch an account is below. They will have a dedication of a plaque on 30th Oct 2004 at the grave of Maj Peter King MC, DSO of the 16th Field Regt RNZA who won his decoration supporting the KOSB action which by all accounts was very severe. “COMMEMORATION SERVICE TO MARK THE 51ST ANNIVERSARY OF THE CESSATION OF HOSTILITIES IN KOREA 2.00PM SUNDAY 25TH JULY 2004:- Beautiful weather prevailed for this popular Annual Commemoration Service. Under the Leadership of Parade Marshal Mr Maurie Watts, approximately forty-five Korea Veterans and two Korean War Veterans assembled in the Driveway leading to the Papanui Returned Servicemen’s Car park... At 1400 Hours, Led by the Christchurch Caledonian Society Royal Stewart Pipe Band the assembly marched to the designated area near the Flagpole. Master of Ceremonies Mr Jack Brunton warmly welcomed Mr Clayton Cosgrove representing The Prime Minister, RT Hon Ms. Helen Clark, Mr Ron Mark, M.P. and Mrs Gail Mark, Col. Rhys Jones, Cdr. 3rd Land Forces Burnham Military Camp, and Mrs Debbie Jones, Cdr. Rex Edwards R.N.Z.N. and Mrs Edwards, Mr Norm Withers, Christchurch City Council, other Distinguished Guests and Veterans. He then invited Rev. Mike Subritzky Padre Burnham Military Camp to offer opening prayers. Guest Speaker Mr Clayton Cosgrove, M.P. representing Rt. Hon. Ms Helen Clark Prime Minister of New Zealand and the Electorate of Waimariri addressed the gathering, followed by Mr Doug Marsh Honorary Consular of Korea and Mr Kevin Holley Vice-President Royal New Zealand Returned Servicemen’s Association. Last Post and Reveille by Mr Ted King. The Ode recited by Immediate Past President New Zealand Korea Veterans Association Mr Laurie Stack Q.S.M. Mr Forbes Taylor, M.B.E. SBSt.J, read the “Roll of Honour” of those who paid the Supreme Sacrifice in Korea. Flagpole attendant Mr Ginna Wall. Flag Bearers, Mr Barry Handisides, Mr Colin Kennedy, Mr Dick Horner, Mr Keith Gibson, Mr Allan Johnson and Mr Les Forrow. Wreaths were laid by Mr Des Pearce, The Korean Society, and Pupils from The Korean Language School. During the laying of the Wreaths the Pipe Band played an appropriate Hymn. Rev. Mike Subritzky “Dedicated and Blessed” the wreaths. The Lament “Flowers of the Forrest” was played by the Pipe Band. Prayers for Peace and final Blessing by Rev Mike Subritzky. It was now time for Parade Marshall Mr Maurie Watts to dismiss the Veterans. Master of Ceremonies Mr Jack Brunton M.C. invited all present into the Clubrooms for Refreshments. In the Clubrooms very generous “Donations” were made to The Canterbury Branch New Zealand Korea Veterans Association by the Canterbury Korean Society, The Korean Catholic Community plus two personal amounts from Korean residents. To the Donors Mr Joe Collett Public Relations Officer and Patron/Treasurer Mr Jack Brunton expressed their thanks and gratitude for the generous Donations. The young Korean Children in their colourful traditional costumes caught the eyes of everyone and were introduced to the assembly. They were accorded a very long acclamation. Veterans & Widows from near and far were in attendance. It was a most moving and memorable Commemoration Service. Thank you to the President Papanui Returned Servicemen’s and Services Association for the use of their excellent facilities. Also thank you to the Bar Staff for first-class service and Ngaire the Caterer for supplying most enjoyable food. Members are planning a trip 30th October 2004, to Whataroa Cemetery for the Dedication of Military Plaque in honour of 206382 Major Peter Frank King, D.S.O. M.C. (16th Field Regiment R.N.Z.A.). We are most grateful to Clarry Maskill Korea Veteran Nelson who has been instrumental in organising the renovation of Peter’s Grave. P.J. (Joe) Collett, Public Relations Officer, Canterbury Branch New Zealand Korea Veterans Association.