IT’s time to put the N and Z back in to ANZAC.
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That’s the opinion of one of the region’s most active
ex-servicemen, Kim McGrath.
Mr McGrath, of King Creek west of Port Macquarie, wants the New Zealand national anthem, God Defend New Zealand, played at Anzac Day ceremonies across Australia.
“I served overseas with the Kiwis and they are good
warriors,” Mr McGrath said.
“We were joined at the hip with them when we went
to the First World War, and we still are.
“They are our brothers and we should not dismiss them
or forget them.”
The former artilleryman wants the RSL to take up his idea and include the Kiwi anthem in Anzac Day services.
“I understand they sing the anthem at some services
in Queensland, but it is
something we all should be doing,” the retired Warrant Officer said.
The 60-year-old said New Zealand ex-servicemen sang Advance Australia Fair at their own ceremonies and Australians should pay them the same respect.
“To me it’s about common courtesy for our closest allies.”
Port Macquarie RSL
Sub-branch president Greg Laird said all Anzac Day
ceremonies in the town were run in accordance with
national protocol.
“Presently, that does not include the singing of the New Zealand national anthem,” Mr Laird said.
