MEDIA RELEASE

29 July 2005

WWII veterans join forces to march back in time

Aucklanders are encouraged to honour those who have fought for our country by coming to watch the VJ/VE Day and Battle of Britain Commemorative Parade in the central city at 12.30pm, Sunday 14 August.

World War II veterans, Defence, Police, NZ Cadet Forces and Fire Service personnel will march to the beat of the same drum up Queen Street to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the Allied victories in Europe and Japan and the 65th anniversary of the Battle of Britain.

The Royal Guard of Honour, made up of members of the three New Zealand Defence Forces, will assemble at midday at the intersection of Queen and Fort Streets and at 12.30pm will commence the march up Queen Street. At Wellesley Street East the WWII veterans will join the parade behind the Royal Guard of Honour. Those veterans unable to march will be riding in vintage military vehicles provided by MOTAT.

The Governor General Dame Silvia Cartwright, will perform an inspection of the Royal Guard of Honour and platoons of personnel, and the Prime Minister, the Right Honourable Helen Clark, will address the troops outside the Town Hall.

The parade will then continue – turning right into Mayoral Drive, completing a U-turn at Greys Avenue, returning back along Mayoral Drive, turning left into Queen Street, left again into Wellesley Street West, and then finishing in Mayoral Drive at approximately 1.30pm.

Military music from RNZ Air Force band will entertain the crowd prior to the parade at the top of Queen Street, and bands from the RNZ Navy, Artillery and Police will be taking part in the parade.

After the parade, refreshments will be provided in Aotea Square and there will be displays from the Navy, Army and Air Force, (including a Navy Seasprite Helicopter on display), and a police dog exhibition. There will also be a chance to check out a career in the New Zealand Defence Force with representatives from each of the three Services on hand.

Veterans who are interested in participating in the parade (either on foot or by vehicle) should contact Matt McMillan, Vice President Auckland District RSA, on (09) 624 5242.

Visit www.aucklandcity.govt.nz/whatson/events/ww2parade/default.asp, check City Scene on 7 August or call (09) 379 2020 for more information about the parade, parking tips and road closures.

ENDS

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