Returning to the Western Front in June 2017 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Messines.
My interest in the Western Front was kindled by the knowledge that my Pop (grandfather) fought and was wounded during the Battle of Messines in June 1917. It therefore seemed very appropriate to return to the Western Front and commemorate the anniversary.
I am pleased to be joining the New Zealand Government’s 100th anniversary of the Battle of Messines – International commemoration. Marking the 100th anniversary of the Battle of Messines. 7 June 2017, New Zealand Memorial, Mesen, Belgium.
The New Zealand National Commemoration for the centenary of the Battle of Messines will take place on 7 June 2017 in the Messines Ridge British Cemetery, Messines, commencing at 8 a.m. The New Zealand Memorial to the Missing in the Battles of Messines in this cemetery lists 827 names. Later that morning there will be an Australian service at the Strand Cemetery (open to the public) and in the afternoon an Irish/Northern Irish service (by invite/ticket only). The day will conclude with a sunset ceremony at the New Zealand Battle Memorial, Messines, at 7.30pm.
Whilst on the Western Front I will once again follow the Australian Remebrance Trail.