An Armistice Day service was held at the Gore Centotaph on Friday. Every year on November 11, at 11am the end of World War 1 is commemorated and those who served in war time and gave their lives for their nation remembered. St Mary’s School pupils took part in this year’s service.

St Mary’s School pupils Pippa Bensemann (10) and Isa-Rae Rooijackers (5), laid flowers on the cenotaph and Brianna Moriarty (10) and Moss Wilson (11) helped Gore and Districts Memorial RSA padre Bruce Cavanagh with the Armistice Day service in Gore on Friday. PHOTO: SANDY EGGLESTON


About 150 people including the St Mary’s School pupils, veterans, Gore District councillors, Gore Mayor Ben Bell and members of the public attended the service.

St Mary’s School acting principal Mallory Hood said the pupils enjoyed learning about Anzac Day and Armistice Day.

‘‘We can’t take all the kids to Anzac Day services but we can when Armistice Day falls on a school day we can bring them to this so it’s an experience they might not get otherwise.’’

The pupils were learning about the concept of turangawaewae — a place to stand.

Before the service, RSA members Steve Lee, Aaron Horrell and Bradley Bridgman spoke to the pupils about how those who fought for New Zealand had made it a safe place to stand, Ms Hood said.

The Ensign reporter Sandy Eggleston asked Brianna Moriarty, 10 (left) and Moss Wilson, 11
what was special about the day for them.
Brianna: I think it’s amazing to honour those who fought in the wars.

Moss: I think it’s a good time to celebrate those who fought for us and sacrificed their lives for us.

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