SOLDIERS’ MEMORIAL AT RANGIOTU.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XLIII, Issue 2343, 18 October 1921, Page 2

SOLDIERS’ MEMORIAL AT RANGIOTU.

At Rangiotu yesterday, a memorial was unveiled to perpetuate the memory of fourteen who paid the supreme sacrifice out of the seven-ty-four who went to the war from the district. The memorial stands on a prominence, in front of Rangiotu’s new post office. The ceremony was performed by Major Bell, D. 5.0., of the Defence Headquarters, Palmerston North. Proceedings were opened by the Rev. AVhite, Anglican minister, of Rongotea, who led the gathering in prayer. This was followed by the singing of “0 God, Our Help in Ages Past,” by the school children, who were massed in front of the memorial.

Mr 11. J. Simmons referred to the splendid response made by the district to (he call for men, and called on Major Bell to address the gathering and unveil the memorial. Major Bell, after delivering a very eloquent address, unveiled the memorial, and the “Last Post” was sounded by Corporal G. H. H. Adams.

Rev. Thos. Halliday, of Foxton, briefly referred to the fine spirit which had been displayed by the boys in their fight for the freedom of our Empire, and tlm many exceptionally big battles, against fearful odds, they had endured. “How could a man die better, than facing fearful odds, for the ashes of his fathers and the temples of his Gods.”

Mr I. C. Cooksley added a word of praise to the parents and relatives of the boys. He also thanked the school children who had assisted in the erection of the memorial. The ceremony was concluded with the singing of the National Anthem.