Kiwi Battle of Britain veteran heads to park unveiling

Ninety two year old Battle of Britain veteran, Gr Capt John Gard’ner is the only New Zealand veteran who is able to make the trip to see the permanent statue to Sir Keith Park unveiled in London this week on Battle of Britain Day, Wednesday 15th September.

The RAF pilot was just 22 years old when he took to the skies over Britain as part of its defence against the German Luftwaffe. He was shot down nine days later on 19 July 1940 over the English Channel and spent the next two months recovering.

Gr Capt Gard’ner has attended several Battle of Britain commemorations in London including the 50th, 60th, 64th and 65th but he said the unveiling of the statue of Sir Keith Park makes the 70th anniversary commemorations even more significant.

“Sir Keith Park’s achievements should have been recognised many years ago. As one of the few surviving Battle of Britain veterans I thought it was important to make the journey to London for this symbolic occasion. The statue is a wonderful tribute to a great New Zealander and a commemoration to all of those who fought during the Battle. New Zealanders should be very proud of this memorial and the three years of work by the Sir Keith Park Memorial Campaign, led by Terry Smith, to have Sir Keith recognised.”

Gr Capt Gard’ner left New Zealand on Friday with his wife to make the trip to London