Around 20 people gathered at Thames Civic Centre to commemorate Armistice Day on November 11, despite wild weather.
The event, which took place at 11am and was commemorated around the region, marked the 104th anniversary of the moment when hostilities ceased on the Western Front in 1918 with the signing of the Armistice which ended World War I.
The commemorations were led by Thames senior constable Brian Connors and included a prayer by Reverend Brendon Wilkinson, a wreath laying by Thames RSA welfare officer Dianne Snow, and a lowering of the flag by Thames RSA committee member Paul Moir while The Last Post was played.
Thames RSA president Ken Last-Harris recites the Ode of Remembrance and told the crowd it was important to remember those who passed away in World War I.
“We must remember them every year, and I feel it is important to also let you know that out at Rhodes Park there’s a plantation of 320 pohutukawa trees that have been planted there in remembrance of those who lost their lives in this great war,” he said.
“I think it’s fitting that every time you go past you should feel a little peace in your heart for those who lost their lives. We will remember them.”
Thames RSA president Ken Last-Harris, centre, recites the Ode of Remembrance. Photo: GORDON PREECE
