The annual commemoration of the Battle of Britain was held at Thames Sailing Club in Tararu on September 15.
The event was to honour Thames-born Sir Keith Park and others who fought in the Battle of Britain 84 years ago during World War II.
Sir Keith’s grand-niece, Lesley Park, was present for the event, along with sculptor Joanne Sullivan, who was commissioned to create a bronze statue of Sir Keith for display at Thames Airfield.
The attendees heard from the Royal Navy Commander Richard Greenwood-Bell representing the British High Commission, Royal NZ Air Force Group Captain Mike Cannon, retired Captain Russell Skeet, and Sir Keith Park Memorial Airfield trust chair Geoff Furkert, along with Thames Coromandel Mayor Len Salt and Coromandel MP Scott Simpson.
Commander Greenwood-Bell said Sir Keith was more often remembered in the United Kingdom for his leadership qualities, rather than his role as an unsung hero of the battle.
“He intuitively understood that leaders must be seen… to be prepared to do what they asked others to do,” he said.
Group Captain Cannon agreed, saying he thought Sir Keith was an example of a man who should be held up as a role model for the next generation.
