Reality of war on display

 

The Days of Thunder display commemorating 100 years since the start of World War 1 was held last weekend at the Hakaru RSA grounds, and proved a good follow-up to Anzac celebrations.

Static displays and demonstrations gave visitors a closer look at the reality of war and the conditions our troops endured during World War 1 and 2. 

Despite the fine warm weather over the weekend of the displays, wartime conditions were no better depicted than through the yellowing sepia photographs on display, portraying the grim faces of troops, battle-weary, not knowing when they might appear in the cross-hairs of an enemy rifle .

This emphasised the general commitment of our troops but more specifically that of our teenaged sons, brothers and young fathers who gave their lives in the pursuit of the freedom we have today. In some cases, New Zealand towns became almost devoid of men, such was the price of war.

The photographic displays held even more reality with the realisation that many of those pictured were local lads, related to many families still living in the area. 

Members of the public were keen to talk to the soldiers, cadets and veterans on hand about weaponry and tactics required for different types of warfare.

The re-enactment of a battle was taken in good stead by visitors but when one considers the group of Mangawhai cadets taking part, these fresh-faced teens were exactly the calibre of many soldiers who bravely yet naively headed to the front all those years ago.

In recent times Anzac parades have swelled in number thanks to the education of the younger generation and one would hope that this weekend of demonstration has added to the understanding of the commitment made and the knowledge of some of the most important events in New Zealand history.

By Rob Pooley

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