Ode of Remembrance

The Ode of Remembrance has been recited to commemorate wartime service and sacrifice since 1921.

The Ode is the 4th stanza of the poem For the Fallen by Laurence Binyon, first published in September 1914. Binyon was an English academic and poet. He worked as a medical orderly with the Red Cross on the Western Front during WWI. By the time his poem was published in The Times, the British Expeditionary Force had already experienced devastating losses on the Western Front.

The English version of the Ode is:

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning

We will remember them. Response: We will remember them Lest we forget.

When the Ode is recited at a commemorative service, visitors should stand, remove headwear and refrain from talking.

Carterton District Council assists the RSA to coordinate the Anzac Parade and Service for 25 April each year. “We are happy to support the RSA to commemorate such an important occasion for all New Zealanders and deliver an Anzac service for the Carterton community that aligns with the RSA’s wishes.”

The service brings a level of formality, with dignitaries and representatives attending including Mayor Hon. Ron Mark, New Zealand Defence Force, and the Australian and British High Commissions. “Nevertheless, our Carterton Service is very much a community event with participation from local schools, churches, and community groups.” All are welcome and invited.

In 2022 the Council erected a range of core flute panels in Memorial Square, commemorating local soldiers. It is doing this again in 2023, with some new additions.

The 2023 parade will assemble at 10.45am in Holloway Street and move off at 11.00am. The parade route makes its way along Holloway Street, right into High Street and will finish with the Service in Memorial Square.

The square and its central memorial were dedicated in 1921, commemorating 114 Carterton area men. In previous years part of the service has been held in the Carterton Club on Broadway.

This year, however, all the formalities will take place in the Square with the opportunity for some light refreshments and conversation at the Club afterwards.