They march for those who no longer can: A town remembers its veterans

They March for Those Who No Longer Can: A Town Remembers Its Veterans

The Combined Services Remembrance Day service in Gisborne will mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and pay tribute to veterans like Ken Gordon, a Royal New Zealand Navy World War II veteran celebrated as a “living legend.”

Honoring Ken Gordon

Ken Gordon, 98, who served on HMNZS Gambia and witnessed the Japanese signing the armistice on USS Missouri in September 1945, will attend the service with his daughter Fiona and son Alister. He recently received a framed letter from King Charles this year in recognition of his service.

Guest Speaker and Veterans

The guest speaker, Jack Donnelly, BEM, a Navy veteran of 34 years, will share Gordon’s vivid wartime experiences.

“I will speak of Gordon’s very graphic and descriptive story,” said Donnelly.

Also attending is Tuwhakairiora “Toti” Tukhaka, QSM, one of Gordon’s former trainees and a Korean War veteran.

The March to Remember

Donnelly emphasized the significance of the March to Remember by Gisborne veterans during the service.

“They march for those who no longer march and in the footsteps of those who are no longer with us. Their pride, discipline and bearing will shine through. We thank them for their service.”

The march serves as a poignant tribute to the sacrifice of past and present servicemen and women.

Service Details

Event: Combined Services Remembrance Day service
Date: Sunday
Location: Outside Returned and Services Association (RSA) rooms, Gisborne

Author’s summary: Gisborne’s Remembrance Day service honors WWII and Korean War veterans, spotlighting Ken Gordon’s remarkable story and the meaningful March to Remember by local veterans.

NZ Herald — 2025-11-07