anzac night
Papanui High Students Evening
Papanui Rotary had a very special experience of ANZAC this year via the thoughts of four senior students from Papanui High School.
An experienced teacher from the school, Keryn Langdon, introduced the students who were also accompanied by parents and the Year 13 Dean Josie Welch.
Summaries of each student's ten minute presentation on what ANZAC means to them are as follows:
Sophie
“In August 2017 I went to the Wellington exhibition ‘Gallipoli – The Scale of the War’ at the National War Memorial which really brought to life the suffering and the importance of not forgetting those who were there.
In the past I was taught that the soldiers were dropped at the wrong location but this was not as real as having the details explained as we experienced the moving exhibitions which portrayed what it was really like.
This exhibition was a fantastic way to help understand what happened and I especially enjoyed the Diary readings that brought the reality of the gruelling conditions to life.
This was a fantastic way to learn and understand the ‘messages’ Gallipoli teaches us all.”
Simon
“The Last Post … I first heard it in 2006 as a Kea Scout while attending a ceremony. Twelve years later I still find this an extremely valuable service.
Attending services has given me the change to truly understand the effect of these Wold War One events, the experiences and sacrifices of all the men that served and how it affected so many countries including the Pacific Islands.
This has helped me appreciate the value of my own life and how lucky I am to have not experienced such harsh conditions myself. This motivates me to be the best person I can be.
In summary ANZAC Day to me is a day of respect and remembrance that helps build ties between countries and to be grateful for what we have.”
Phoebe
“Following the silence on the 11th minute of the 11th hour World War One finally ended in 1918. This war resulted in over 100,000 war memorials in the UK which are spread out over a number of plaques and gardens which are still well attended to this day.
The formal attendance at especially ANZAC services is a true celebration of both lives lost and other battles.
Dawn Parade includes a section where both young and old and everyone in between stand in silence which is unique to New Zealand and has helped teach me the true value of these events.
Keeping ANZAC day as a treasured day has also taught me how strong we really are as a nation.”
Isobel
“Before I became a Navel Cadet ANZAC was just another day to me. When I joined, however, this all changed.
I learnt about the bravery of the soldiers and the respect they had for each other and their strong love for their country.
On one camp I remember us getting up at 4:00 am, ensuring our uniform was perfect, and travelling into Christchurch to march with others who had fought for our country.
I am so respectful of these brave people who fought to ensure the freedom of future generations … they are my heroes.”
What a great privilege it was for us to hear the valuable insights these four marvellous students were able to share of what ANZAC means to them.