Raetihi marks VJ Day

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 13, Issue 600, 22 August 1995, Page 7

Raetihi marks VJ Day

Raetihi commemorated Victory over Japan Day with a tree planting in the grounds of the ne w Waimarino health clinic last Tuesday. The mayor, Garrick Workman, was present as were representatives of the military, in particular, the 4th Logistic regiment. There was a large number of returned servicemen present including the Raetihi RSA vice president, Ian Stewart. Mr Stewart addressed the crowd, acknowledging all those who went overseas and fought in the various wars and in particular the second world war. He also paid tribute to all those in the home front and to the women who had to.turn their hands to the least traditional jobs within the workforce. Lou Most, president of the Waimarino Club, addressed the crowd and introduced the mayor, Mr Workman, who also acknowledged the RSA servicemen and women. He said he was very impressed to see so many throughout the district had attended the various commemorative cer-

emonies. Mr Workman said that 50 years ago it was a celebration of peace and freedom and that it should be remembered, that there has been 50 years of world peace, a time to reflect and a time to be thankful for. Ray Littlewood, (patron of the RSA), and Kristal Brooks, a grandaughter of two returned servicemen, were given the honour of planting the tree, a kowhai. The Waimarino Club put on a evening with a nostalgic 1940's theme. Before the dinner, part of a culture group, from Maungarongo Marae who are also members of the Ruapehu College group, entertained. As well as traditional entertainment the girls ended with their version of 'The Andrew Sisters, Company B'.Two women took on the military look and everyone enjoyed the sing-a-long, with numbers like, 'Kiss Me Goodnight Sergeant Major' , 'The Lambeth Walk', 'White Cliffs of Dover', 'Mona Lisa' and more. Apparently it was the wee small hours before things wound up.