One Hundred Years

One hundred years ago, Britain declared war on Germany. As one of the British Dominions, New Zealand joined in that declaration, and at once offered its own troops.

In those early, heady days, when the war was still seen as an opportunity for adventure, there was no shortage of men offering to serve. 14,000 volunteered within the first four days after the announcement of war.

By war’s end, from a country of one million people 100,000 New Zealanders would have served overseas. 18,000 were killed, and over 40,000 injured; one of the highest per capita rates of any country involved in this war.

Yesterday saw commemorations of the declaration of war, including a one-hundred gun salute, and one hundred white crosses erected on the grounds of Parliament. Many of the troops wore replicas of the uniforms of one hundred years ago.

More on the commemorations, with photographs, here.

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