They March for Those Who No Longer Can: A Town Remembers Its Veterans
Guest speaker Jack Donnelly BEM will share the vivid wartime story of Ken Gordon, a Royal New Zealand Navy World War II veteran. At 98 years old, Ken Gordon, pictured with a framed letter he received from King Charles this year, will be honored at Sunday’s Combined Services Remembrance Day service.
Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of World War II’s End
The service will take place outside the Returned and Services Association (RSA) rooms in Gisborne, marking 80 years since the end of World War II. It will pay tribute to veterans like Ken Gordon, often described as a “living legend.” He will attend with his daughter Fiona and son Alister.
Guest Speaker’s Tribute
Jack Donnelly, BEM, a 34-year veteran of the Navy, told the Gisborne Herald he plans to recount Gordon’s “very graphic and descriptive story.”
“Gordon was a living legend who served on HMNZS Gambia and witnessed the historic moment when the Japanese signed the armistice on USS Missouri in September 1945, ending WWII and bringing peace to the world.”
Veterans Honored at the Service
Included in the event is Tuwhakairiora “Toti” Tukhaka, QSM, a Korean War veteran from the early 1950s and one of Gordon’s former trainees.
March to Remember
One of the most moving parts of the service will be the March to Remember by Gisborne veterans.
“They march for those who no longer march and in the footsteps of those who are no longer with us. Their pride, discipline and bearing will shine through. We thank them for their service.”
This solemn march honors fallen soldiers and reflects the enduring respect and gratitude the community holds for its veterans.
Author’s summary: The Gisborne Remembrance Day service honors World War II and Korean War veterans with powerful stories and a heartfelt march that keeps the memory of the fallen alive.