"We Will Remember Them"

Lake County Mail, Issue 47, 28 April 1948, Page 8

"We Will Remember Them"

The glorious name of “Anzac ” still rings in our ears, and brings back to our minds the sacrifice of many of our men and women of the First and Seeond N.Z.E.F. The view is widened through the passage of time. We look back on those years of Gallipoli and the later battles of the Middle East and the Pacific, wishing they had not been. There is scarcely a family that does not mourn for some fallen serviceman. The First N.Z.E.F. fought in the war which was to end war, and the Second N.Z.E.F. carried on their task. Have we learnt the lesson of history? It was often said during the second war that after victory was attained we must win the peace. That task still lies in our hands.

If Anzac Day brings only wistful memories to our minds, it is worthless. Each Anzac Day should be a new dedication of all that we have and are to the task that lies ahead—we must win the peace. How can we do that? By supporting every organisation that strives for peace. By talking peace and praying for peace, and working for peace. By working for greater international cooperation, for the abolition of ignorance, and uncharitableness. Cain asked God the question: “Am I my brother’s keeper? ” And the answer comes back that each one of us has a responsibility towards his brother and his neighbour.

God give us men. A time like this demands

Great hearts, strong minds, true faith and willing hands, Men, whom the lust of office does not kill; Men, whom the spoil of office cannot buy;

Men who possess opinions and a will;

Men who have honour, men who will not lie. —Oliver Wendell Holmes.

Such is what we need at the present time, such is what we need to become ourselves so that Anzac Day means the beginning of peace. From our memories, brought forth each Anzac Day may we find courage and strength to go forward.

Good Friday and other holy days of the church’s year are becoming more and more secularised. Beware lest we secularise Anzac Day and make it a picnic holiday, instead of a holy day, sacred to the memory of our fallen comrades. When we remember what we owe to them, perhaps it will also occur to our minds what we owe to God, and we will keep such holy days sacred to Him. Philip 0. Williams.