Wing Commander Arthur (Artie) Ashworth was the first man from Alexandra to volunteer for the air force in 1939 and he became one of New Zealand’s most decorated airmen, serving 29 years in the English Royal Air Force (RAF) and receiving several decorations for bravery in World War 2, including the Distinguished Service Order and twice being awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross.
He was then appointed to the elite Pathfinder Force; they were the pilots who led the way before a bombing operation, marking the target with flares.
W Cmdr Ashworth retired from the RAF due to ill-health in 1967 and he lived in England until his death in 1994, but his wish was for his ashes to be returned to Alexandra, his brother, Vince Ashworth, of Morrinsville, said.
After W Cmdr Ashworth’s wife, Kay, died last year, plans were finally made to bring his ashes to New Zealand and honour his wishes, Vince Ashworth said.
About 80 people, including RSA representatives and various extended family members — including W Cmdr Ashworth’s daughter-in-law from Bournemouth, England, Maria Ashworth — attended a graveside service conducted by Andrew Howley, of the Alexandra-Clyde-Lauder Union Parish. Mr Howley said the service was for a "brave son of Alexandra".
They praised his "outstanding skill, courage and infinite care" in the face of intense anti-aircraft fire. The citations said W Cmdr Ashworth was known for his "utter fearlessness", "magnificent determination" and "total strength", and for being "an excellent example to others".
Mrs Ashworth said it was an honour to bring her father-in-law home after all these years.
Alexandra-Clyde RSA president Kevin Harding said the RSA had been proud to organise the ceremony.
"It’s not often you get an occasion like this to celebrate, and we gave it all our effort."
The service included a two-gun salute from the RSA’s 25 pounder field gun.
