Local column – Recognising service in Malaya
I’m proud to be the Minister of Veterans’ Affairs, making sure our veterans are looked after and properly commemorated.
Last Saturday I gave a reading to a ceremony in Wellington to mark the 72nd anniversary of the Battle of Britain. Then on Sunday I gave two speeches to commemorate the first ever New Zealand Malayan Veterans’ Day.
This memorial day will become an annual event, and a chance to pay tribute to all those who served during these conflicts.
New Zealand forces from all three branches were involved in a series of conflicts in the region from 1948 to 1966. Twenty two New Zealanders paid the ultimate sacrifice and lost their lives in service.
It was very fitting to hold both services at the National War Memorial in Wellington, which will soon have a major upgrade. State Highway 1 will be put underground to create a new Memorial Park in time for the centenary of the Gallipoli Landings in 2015.
There will be major events happening around the country to mark the 100th anniversary of the World War One, which was a defining event in New Zealand’s history.
The Government has announced there will be $17 million in lotteries funding for commemorative projects around the country.
I’ve written to local RSA’s in Foxton, Levin, Shannon, Otaki, Tokomaru and Paraparaumu along with our local mayors, encouraging them to apply for funding.
There are two types of projects that can be funded – general funds for community events and smaller capital works projects, and funds for projects of a larger scale of national significance.
This could include things like memorials, exhibitions, restorations or publications. Priority will be given to projects which preserve our heritage and explain the impact the war had on our society and identity.
If you have any ideas, let my offices in Levin or Paraparaumu know or contact the local council. You can find more information about the fund at www.communitymatters.govt.nz.
From my diary
*Cabinet met on Monday and Parliament is sitting all week.
*Thursday I am in Rotorua for some forestry visits, and then to speak at the Forestry Industry Training Awards dinner.
*Saturday I hope to watch Horowhenua-Kapiti play West Coast in Levin as part of the Heartland rugby competition.