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 like Ken Gordon, a celebrated Royal New Zealand Navy veteran.
Honouring Ken Gordon
Ken Gordon, aged 98, served during WWII on HMNZS Gambia and witnessed the signing of the Japanese armistice on the USS Missouri in September 1945, an event that brought peace to the world. This year, he received a framed letter from King Charles in recognition of his service.
The service will take place outside the Returned and Services Association (RSA) rooms, where Gordon will attend alongside his daughter Fiona and son Alister.
Guest Speaker and Stories from the Navy
Jack Donnelly, BEM, a Navy veteran with 34 years of service, will speak at the event. He described Gordon’s wartime story as “very graphic and descriptive” and referred to him as a living legend.
Additional Veterans and Memorials
Also participating will be Tuwhakairiora “Toti” Tukhaka, QSM, a veteran of the Korean War and one of Gordon’s former trainees.
One of the service's most moving moments 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.”
Summary
This service in Gisborne honors the sacrifices of veterans like Ken Gordon through storytelling, remembrance, and a symbolic march that connects past and present generations.