NZDF to mark Le Quesnoy Centenary in France
A New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) contingent will mark the centenary of the liberation of Le Quesnoy in France on Sunday, 4 November, 2018.
It is the final New Zealand overseas commemorative activity for the First World War centenary.
The liberation of the fortified town, which had been occupied by enemy forces since 1914, was a much-needed success for the New Zealand Division during 1918, Chief of Defence Force Air Marshal Kevin Short said.
“The liberation, which included New Zealand soldiers famously scaling the fortifications on a ladder, has led to a close bond between the people of Le Quesnoy and New Zealand that endures today,” Air Marshal Short said.
“More than 130 New Zealand soldiers died during the liberation of Le Quesnoy. The stark reality is that many of their families didn’t know of their death until after the Armistice was signed and celebrated around the world.”
More New Zealand soldiers died in 1918 than any other year of the First World War. Intense fighting began with the German Spring Offensive in March, followed by an allied counteroffensive, which did not cease until the end of the war.
The NZDF plans and delivers overseas military commemorations on behalf of the Government. The liberation of Le Quesnoy will be marked in France with a National Commemorative Service at 11am (11pm NZ time) on Sunday, 4 November, and a Last Post ceremony at 5pm (5am Monday, 5 November NZ time).
The 44-member contingent includes the Vice Chief of Defence Force, Air Vice-Marshal Tony Davies, representing the Chief of Defence Force, and Contingent Commander Lieutenant Colonel Mel Childs, who was the NZDF Person of the Year 2017. Also included in the contingent are ceremonial personnel, a Māori Cultural Group and musicians.
For more information about the 4 November commemorations visit www.WW100.govt.nz/lequesnoy
For historical information, visit www.nzhistory.govt.nz/war/le-quesnoy/new-zealand-and-le-quesnoy
