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Wellington Ceremony Honours US Marine Corps
Wellington Ceremony Honours US Marine Corps
By Alastair Reith
US Marines today took part in a wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial in Wellington.
Parliament unanimously passed a motion expressing gratitude to the United States for the protection it provided New Zealand during World War II.
The motion went on to note the close relationship between the two countries, espescially around economic and security issues.
After a brief ceremony concluded, Prime Minister John Key and Governor General Sir Jerry Mateparae laid roses on the Tomb of the Unkown Warrior.
They were followed by Labour leader David Shearer, former Labour leader Phil Goff and representatives of the United States and New Zealand militaries.
The US Marine Corps Pacific Band stood to attention alongside New Zealand military personnel across the road.
About 15 peace activists were also in attendance, with banners denouncing the war in Afghanistan and praising conscientious objectors.
One protester laid a symbolic wreath commemorating the civilians killed by the American-led invasions of Iraq and Afghanistan.
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