Anzac Day: Gisborne Navy man’s wants modern-day vets honoured too

Former Royal New Zealand Navy Warrant Officer Jack Donnelly says the presence of more modern-day veterans at Anzac Day parades is "a powerful reminder that service to nation does not end with past wars". Photo / Gisborne Herald

Service provided by the modern generation of veterans in New Zealand should be honoured alongside the “Anzac legacy”, former Royal New Zealand Navy Warrant Officer Jack Donnelly says.

As Anzac Day approaches, retired gunnery instructor Donnelly encourages the Gisborne community to reflect not only on the sacrifices of past generations, but also “the service of our own modern-day veterans who continue to uphold New Zealand’s proud military traditions”.

It is vital to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice and whose names are etched into our memorial cenotaph. But it is equally important to acknowledge the contribution of our younger generation who have also served their country, Jack Donnelly says.

“Anzac commemorations in Gisborne date back to 1916 when our community first gathered to honour those who served and lost their lives in World War 1.

“In 1949, the scope of remembrance was widened to include all New Zealanders who served and died in both WW1 and WW2,” he said.

“Since then, New Zealand’s armed forces have played significant roles in numerous international conflicts and peacekeeping missions.”

These included service in Korea, Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iraq, East Timor, the Malaysian crisis and various peacekeeping operations around the globe.

“For generations our returned servicemen and women have marched on Anzac Day proudly wearing their medals that reflect their service and sacrifice,” Donnelly said.

“While earlier commemorations largely centred on our veterans of the two world wars, today’s parades also feature those who have served in more recent conflicts.

“Our modern-day veterans will once again march with dignity and pride at this year’s dawn service, standing alongside the legacy of those who came before them.

“Our Gisborne community are reminded that while it is vital to honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice and whose names are etched into our memorial cenotaph, it is equally important to acknowledge the contribution of our younger generation who have also served their country.

“Their presence on parade is a powerful reminder that service to nation does not end with past wars.”