Defence Minister Wayne Mapp is representing New Zealand at ceremonies marking the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Crete this weekend.
The Minister and Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant General Rhys Jones will attend a commemoration service and wreath-laying at the Crete/New Zealand monument in the Galatas village tonight at 7 p.m. on Crete.
“The Battle of Crete was New Zealand’s first major battle of World War II, and the first major battle led by New Zealand commanders,” Dr. Mapp said during his speech. He also added, “It has special resonance for New Zealanders. Today, we remember the extraordinary bravery of those who fell here.”
Tomorrow, Dr. Mapp will attend a similar ceremony at the Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery at Souda Bay. On Sunday services will be held at the German War Cemetery at Maleme and at Maleme Airport.
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