How Northlanders Will Remember the Fallen on Armistice Day
This year marks 107 years since the guns fell silent on the Western Front. Armistice Day is observed annually on November 11 to commemorate the ceasefire that ended World War I fighting at 11 a.m. on the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918.
Community Commemoration in Northland
Northlanders are encouraged to attend their local RSA to honor those who sacrificed their lives during the war. The event marks the anniversary of the ceasefire, known as Armistice Day, and the subsequent official peace treaty signed in June 1919.
Kerikeri RSA Participation
Bill Godfrey, former Kerikeri RSA president and Vietnam veteran, continues to support the RSA while a new president is appointed. He highlighted the importance of remembering the fallen:
“It’s to honour those who lost their lives fighting for our freedom; to recognise them, and keep their memory alive.”
About 100 people are expected to gather at the Kerikeri War Memorial, located by the library at the Kerikeri Domain, just before 11 a.m. on November 11.
Significance of Armistice Day
- The Great War, as World War I was called, resulted in over 20 million deaths.
- The ceasefire was a temporary pause in hostilities on November 11, 1918.
- The Treaty of Versailles, signed in June 1919, officially ended the war and established peace terms.
Kerikeri's RSA hosts two major commemorations annually: Armistice Day and Anzac Day.
Author's summary: Armistice Day marks the solemn remembrance of sacrifices made in World War I, with Northlanders invited to participate in ceremonies honoring those who fought for freedom.