Boys take pride in family medals

Wearing their great-grandfathers' war medals are (from left) Jamie Brown (9), of Omakau, and Patrick Moran (12), of Alexandra, after taking part in an Anzac Day parade at Omakau on Saturday morning. Photo by Rosie Manins.

Jamie Brown, of Omakau, and Patrick Moran, of Alexandra, stood at the centre of the front rank for the parade outside Omakau's Memorial Hall, decorated with their great-grandfathers' medals from the two world wars.

Both boys were happy to explain how their great-grandfathers came to have medals bestowed on them while fighting for New Zealand.

Patrick's great-grandfather, Thomas Mathews, of Invercargill, returned home after being wounded at Gallipoli in 1915 during World War 1.

He then went on to become an officer in charge of the Southland regiment of territorials.

Mr Mathews was awarded seven medals in total, six of which were proudly displayed on Patrick's chest while his grandmother wore the seventh during Saturday's service.

Jamie's great-grandfather, George Brown, of Mornington, was not so lucky.

He was killed on the banks of the River Arno in Italy, on August 12, 1944, during World War 2.

Both boys said it felt good to be able to display their great-grandfathers' legacy and take part in ceremonies dedicated to remembering those who sacrificed so much for their country.

Omakau and Districts Returned and Services president Graye Shattky said he encouraged all young residents in the area to wear family medals on Anzac Day.

"It's a little sad and ironic that today we welcome, perhaps, the largest gathering of people we have had for Anzac Day at Omakau [150], when our ranks have diminished somewhat - just three World War 2 veterans remain in our midst.