Todd McClay: Day to show how much we value our veterans

Anzac Day is a day to reflect on, and be grateful to, our Anzac veterans. More than 2700 New Zealanders lost their lives serving as part of the Australia New Zealand Army Corps that landed at Gallipoli on April 25, 1915. It is difficult to imagine the human suffering, hardships and horrors they endured.
We also remember those who have served in conflicts since that time such as the Battle of Crete, which began on May 20, 1941, during World War II. New Zealand lost hundreds of soldiers, and more than 2000 were captured as prisoners of war. This year marks the 70th anniversary of that battle.
The remaining veterans of this battle are eligible for funding to return to Crete for the anniversary. Earlier this year I was approached to support one of our local veterans through funding to attend these commemorations. I made a case to the minister responsible and was delighted to be informed last week that Rotorua's own Arthur Midwood, a 92-year-old returned serviceman from this battle will be able to join his compatriots in Crete with a special grant from the Ministry of Defence.
For those not able to travel, a reception will be held for veterans and dignitaries at the Grand Hall at Parliament. This will follow a wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial in Wellington and a ceremony at the Hellenic Memorial.
There are currently 1136 New Zealand Defence Force personnel deployed on 16 operations, UN missions and defence exercises around the world. While our forces today may serve our country in a very different way to the Anzacs at Gallipoli, they are upholding democracy, preserving peace, and providing aid around the world.
This year our armed forces also gave support on our own shores. When tragedy struck Christchurch on February 22, our armed forces responded immediately. HMNZS Canterbury was already in port at Lyttelton, and offered help right away. It also completed supply trips to the region.
Our army dispatched troops to support police maintaining cordons around the city. And the Royal New Zealand Air Force flew in vital equipment and urban search and rescue teams.
During the past year the country also faced losses in the defence force. Last Anzac Day, a helicopter crash claimed the lives of three Iroquois crew, Flight Lieutenant Hayden Madsen, Flying Officer Daniel Gregory, and crewman Corporal Andrew Carson. In Afghanistan three New Zealanders lost their lives; Lieutenant Timothy O'Donnell, Private Jack Howard (serving in the British Army), and Private Kirifi Mila.
The Government, along with all New Zealanders, is committed to honouring those veterans who served our country operationally, and in a wide range of vital support roles.
Earlier today I had the honour of attending both the Dawn Parade in Kawerau, and Anzac Day Service in Rotorua. I believe that it is important I play my part in honouring these men and women and ensuring they receive recognition for the service and sacrifice they gave to our country.
Over the past couple of years I have witnessed increasing numbers of New Zealanders attending Anzac services.
From mums and dads to our youngest citizens it is heartwarming to see that the tradition of Anzac remains strong.
If you have been able to take part in a remembrance service today, the friends and family of our brave soldiers, both past and present, will be grateful of your recognition and support.
Our veterans need to know how much they are valued, and that the job they do is appreciated. Lest we forget.