Anzac Day: War letters to home
Sunday marks the 106-year anniversary of the first landing of New Zealand and Australian soldiers at Anzac Cove on the Gallipoli Peninsula.
For many of the 16000 soldiers, April 25, 1915 marked their first day of combat.
And by that night, 2000 had been killed or maimed.
We remember our Auckland veterans and fallen soldiers with their letters to friends and loved ones back home.
Here are letters from Michael Menzies, a Prisoner of War in Japan, to his friend Norm Ryder:
6/5/45
Dear Norm,
Still existing and anticipating a speedy reunion.
Appreciate your kind thoughts and wishes.
I often have the Queen St blues and a perpetual Waitemata thirst and occasionally a nicotine fit.
Received three of your letters and am anxiously
awaiting for more.
Your Affectionate Pal
Snowy
Michael Menzies' letter to his relatives:
2/12/43
Dear Auntie Kate and Ange,
I received your very welcomed letter dated May 25th on Nov 25 th.
Although Jack has received a parcel from St Johns Association London and a very brief letter from Kathleen, this is the first I have received in twenty two long months.
I had given up all hope of getting mail so imagine the thrill it gave me.
There is only one thing I need Auntie and that is news, especially of Pat.
Please don’t keep it from me if anything has happened to him for that would only hurt me all the more.
I can’t help but think the worst has happened to him.
How is everyone in New Zealand?
I have made several radio broadcasts from here, did you hear any of them?
Of course I know you’ll understand when I tell you that our correspondence is limited in more ways than one.
Please don’t send money as you suggested, but a few packs of cigarettes, gum, and a photo would be very welcome.
Apart from a few attacks of asthma Jack is very well and sends his love to all.
I assure you Auntie that you have no need to worry so much over Jack or myself as we are both together which makes it much easier on me and under the circumstances the treatment is fair enough.
There are many things I want to ask you and tell you but unfortunately they will have to wait until peace has been restored once more to this mad world.
Well auntie I sincerely hope this letter finds you in the very best of health and
Along with it I send the seasons greetings and all my love.
Lots and lots of love.
Mick
Auckland Star Nov 1945 (2).PDF story about Menzies brothers as Prisoners of War.PDF Download View
Calling All Puzzle Masters! Can You Solve This?
When John was six years old he hammered a nail into his favorite tree to mark his height.
Ten years later at age sixteen, John returned to see how much higher the nail was.
If the tree grew by five centimetres each year, how much higher would the nail be?
Do you think you know the answer to our daily riddle? Don't spoil it for your neighbours! Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm.
Want to stop seeing riddles in your newsfeed?
Head here and hover on the Following button on the top right of the page (and it will show Unfollow) and then click it. If it is giving you the option to Follow, then you've successfully unfollowed the Riddles page.
Win this brand new home!
Experience the perfect blend of country charm and city convenience in Clarks Beach, Auckland!
For just $15 a ticket, you could win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home, valued at over $1 million.
This home offers three bedrooms, spacious kitchen and living areas, and a double garage.
Whether you decide to make it your dream home, a holiday retreat, a rental property or simply sell it, it’s still a life-changing prize.
Don’t wait—get your tickets today at heartlottery.org.nz.
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
Loading…
