The Otago Military History Group, the Royal New Zealand Navy, Naval Reserve HMNZS Toroa, the Otago Officers’ Club and Volunteer Reserve Association have joined forces to plan the reunion, to be held from December 8-10.
Otago Military History Group co-chairman Peter Trevathan said the HMS Neptune sinking, early on December 9, 1941, had a major impact on many families across the country.
The planned reunion in December would be a chance for families and historians to gather, look back at the extraordinary events surrounding New Zealand’s worst naval disaster, and share memorabilia, Mr Trevathan said.
The impetus for the reunion came from Dunedin man John Campbell and his cousin Murray Cook, who were keen to celebrate the short life of their uncle Albert (Vern) Campbell, who died in the HMS Neptune sinking and is named on the memorial plinth in Dunedin’s steamer basin.
"We have quite a group of family members coming to Dunedin for the reunion — it is a really good reason for getting together," Ms Campbell said.
"Looking back at the history of our uncle’s life, and what happened to the men on HMS Neptune is fascinating," he said.
Otago Military History Group co-chairwoman Marlene Pooley said there had been "a really good response" to the reunion, with people travelling from the North Island to attend.
"We are looking forward to a fantastic reunion weekend," she said.
HMS Neptune reunion activities would include a Friday night get-together at HMNZS Toroa, with families encouraged to bring along photos and memorabilia, military tours of cemeteries around Dunedin, a reunion dinner at Mosgiel Memorial RSA, and a service of celebration.
A public wreath laying service will be held on Saturday, December 9, at 10am at the HMS Neptune memorial plinth, in Dunedin’s steamer basin, corner Wharf and Birch Sts.
Guest speaker for the event will be HMNZS Toroa executive officer Lieutenant Commander Kerry Driver, and the service will also include music from the Dunedin RSA Choir and Mosgiel Brass Band.
Registrations for the HMS Neptune reunion close this Friday, December 1.
For information and registration forms, email b.mpooley91@gmail.com
