RSA marks 11/11/11 around the country

"News came through late last night that armistice had been signed, and hostilities ceased at 11 a.m. Thank God!"

So the Commander of the New Zealand Division, Major-General Sir Andrew Russell, wrote in his diary on 11 November 1918.

After four years of the greatest conflict then known in human history – involving 100,000 New Zealanders and the cost of 18,000 lives – the Armistice meant soldiers no longer had to dream of home-comings but could finally dare to believe they would actually see home and loved ones again. The subsequent process of return was not simply about soldiers coming home but about their longer-term return to health and productive lives. In fact, General Russell would take two years to recover his health before dedicating the next decade and a half to supporting the rehabilitation of his men in his role as RSA dominion president.

Fledging RSAs provided camaraderie and compassion for tens of thousands and the start of a long and proud tradition that continues to this day. And the need continues.

“At 11 am we remember those who have served and fallen during the First World War and subsequent wars, and we also think of our troops currently serving overseas and remember those who have recently fallen,” says RSA National President Don McIver.

Interest in the First World War grows with new books, films and documentaries despite the passing of all World War One veterans.

“They are now the “Lost Generation” forever but never forgotten,” says Mr McIver.

This year uniquely falls on “the eleventh day of the eleventh month of the eleventh year of the Millennium” (11/11/11). Around the country RSAs are arranging Remembrance Services and related events to mark the 93rd anniversary.