Media Statement 7 November 2008.

Commemorative Service marking the 90th anniversary of the end of the First World War

“A commemorative service to mark the 90th anniversary of the end of the First World War will take place on 11th November at the National War Memorial” said Andrew Beattie, Director, Visits and Ceremonial Office, Department of Internal Affairs.

“The 90th anniversary of the signing of the Armistice between the allies and Germany on the 11th November 1918 marked the end of four long years of war.

The 11th November service is part of a series of public events to commemorate the ‘Coming Home’ of our soldiers.

“The Ceremony begins with a Royal Salute followed by a commemorative service at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior and service of Readings and Music in the Hall of Memories” said Mr Beattie.

Wreaths will be laid by the Governor-General, representatives of the Government and Opposition, the diplomatic community, RNZRSA and St Mark’s School.

The Governor-General will give a reading from 1919 and Oral history readings will be given by Brie Jessen from the New Zealand Red Cross and Raphael Mobegi winner of the RNZRSA National Secondary School competition, 2008.

Ms Penny Reddie, High Commissioner for Canada will recite ‘In Flanders Fields’ and Dame Kate Harcourt will recite Vincent O’Sullivan’s ‘Homecoming Te Hokinga Mai’.

Music for the service will be provided by the Central Band of the RNZAF, Wellington Cathedral of St Paul choir and Chris Skinner.

ENDS

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