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Royal flush at Cassino for Tahlia.jpg "Tahlia Harry Hubbert (2)") What promised to be the trip of a lifetime has surpassed expectations for Mangawhai cadet Tahlia Howard who has just returned from the 70th anniversary commemorative ceremonies of the Battles of Cassino in Italy.Being chosen as one of only two New Zealand cadets was a well-earned honour in itself but taking the trip with a number of military representatives and veterans proved a great experience and education as she got to know some of the Kiwi ex-servicemen and learned their wartime stories, and met people from many different countries. Thirty eight New Zealand Cassino war veterans attended the service. All of them are in their nineties. The service was attended by many other New Zealand visitors, as well as members of the local community who clapped and cheered as the Kiwi veterans made their way to the area where most of the New Zealand servicemen are buried. .jpg "tahlia and harry(2)") “I am without words to describe what I have experienced these past few days,” said Tahlia, very moved by the occasion. “I am honoured to be amongst the veterans of the 1944 Cassino battles and current military personnel.An emotional Tahlia said she shed more than just a tear. “It was such a proud moment to stand and represent my country as I shook the hand of our Governor General and Prince Harry. I will forever remember this experience and the love and honour shared among these people. The amount I have learned in these few days is immense and I will continue to pass on the stories I have been told to me by these men and God bless those who sacrificed their lives for ours today. We will remember them.” A total of 456 New Zealanders are buried at Cassino, and the names of another 55 are listed on a memorial, their graves are unknown. By Rob Pooley HONOURED: Mangawhai cadet Tahlia Howard assists Cassino veteran Mr Harry Hubbert, 94, of Auckland, as he meets HRH Prince Harry. Then a few words with the Prince herself (below). PHOTO/above NZDF/below supplied |
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