Rallying reminder of past wars
As Armistice Day was marked in North Otago yesterday, one Oamaru man had his own salient reminder of war's shadows.
Jim Cresswell is one of four children of Arthur Cresswell, who was a survivor of World War I.
"He was wounded twice in France, sent to England to hospital and then sent back to fight again," he said.
"He had shrapnel to the back of the neck the first time, the second time his leg was split right open."
Upon returning to Blenheim after the war, Arthur had four children and 11 grandchildren. He died aged 95.
Mr Cresswell, who makes a point of attending annual Armistice Day ceremonies, moved to Oamaru 16 years ago.
About 10 people gathered at the Garden of Memories for a minute's silence, speeches and the placing of wreaths yesterday.
RSA Otago/Southland District president John Longman said: "In North Otago, we remember those who left and those who didn't come back, who gave their lives so we've ended up with a far better country."
