New Zealand commemorates 75 years since the end of WWII
New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has paid tribute to the country’s veterans as it marks Victory in Europe (VE) Day, marking 75 years since the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II.
In a video address on Friday, Ardern said the day was a chance to pay tribute to the heroism and sacrifice shown by the country’s veterans.
“New Zealand remembers you are the ones who answered your country’s call. We honour your service and the sacrifice of your comrades who never came home.”
New Zealand was involved for all but three of 2,179 days of the war, with 11,625 New Zealanders paying with their lives, Ardern said.
“Many more continued to feel the lingering impacts of war long after the guns fell silent.”
Governor-General Dame Patsy Reddy also released a video address on Friday, calling New Zealand’s efforts a “six-year marathon of courage, sacrifice and endurance.”
Read also: Accuser calls for Joe Biden to drop out of presidential race
She said VE Day would be remembered with “mingled emotion,” with grief for those that lost their lives and the pride of New Zealand’s achievements.
“VE Day is a chance to recall and celebrate one of history’s most significant triumphs over the forces of division and fascism.”
A national service to commemorate the day in New Zealand was cancelled due to the country’s Covid-19 response. (dpa)
