The Cambridge Anzac Day civic service marked a first this year with the laying of a wreath on behalf of two Indian infantry regiments who fought alongside the Anzacs in Gallipoli.
Made up in the Indian national tri-colours, the wreath was laid by Captain Allan Rodrigues (retired) of the Indian Navy, escorted by the Cambridge RSA vice-president Brigadier Jon Broadley MBE.
Walking towards the cenotaph at the civic service with the special wreath honouring Indian troops in Gallipoli is Captain Allan Rodrigues of the Indian Navy (retired), flanked by Cambridge RSA vice president Brigadier Jon Broadley and Cadet Fletcher Kerr. Photo: Richard Lummus
Cambridge Community Board chair Jo Davies-Colley told those attending the service that the wreath recognised the nearly 19,000 Indian soldiers who served in Gallipoli.
“The 14th Sikh Regiment and the First Battalion 5th Gurkha Rifles suffered heavy casualties, but were brave and fearless soldier, three of whom went on to receive the Indian Order of Merit, the highest military award in India,” she said. “Thirty-eight more received the Indian Distinguished Service Medal for gallantry.”
Taupo MP Louise Upston, escorted by Cambridge RSA vice president Colonel Jon Broadley MBE, laid a wreath during the dawn service in Cambridge. Photo: Viv Posselt
After the ceremony, Cpt Rodrigues acknowledged Cambridge for recognising the service of the Indian troops.
He said: “As the only representative of the Armed Forces of India in Cambridge, I would like to convey our gratitude, specifically on behalf of the two infantry regiments who fought alongside the Anzacs throughout the campaign and suffered heavy casualties along with their Anzac comrades.”
A huge red balloon inflated in the village green and carrying the word ‘poppies’ on the side caught the attention of those who attended the dawn service. Photo: Viv Posselt
The civic service was also addressed by Group Captain John McWilliam, Group Captain (retired) Ants Hawes, and Cambridge High School head boy and head girl, Levi Lamb and Chiara Woodford.
Both services attracted huge numbers, with people at the dawn service filling the streets on either side of the town hall. Following that service people wandered onto Victoria Square where a massive ‘poppies’ red balloon had been inflated.
Local commemorations started last Wednesday evening with the Cambridge Brass Band joining forces with the Cambridge and Districts Pipe Band to present the annual Anzac Eve Concert in the Town Hall.
Saluting after laying a wreath at the dawn service are Cambridge RSA president Colonel James (Tony) Hill MBE, escorted by Lt Cdr Greg Liddy, RNZNR Regional Naval Officer Waikato. Photo: Viv Posselt
