A wreath-laying ceremony has been held in Wellington to mark the 70th anniversary of the longest lasting military campaign in World War II.
The Battle of the Atlantic lasted for just over 2000 days from 1939 until the end of 1945, with 24 May regarded as a key turning point in the campaign.
Principal Defence Chaplain Lance Lukin told those gathered at the National War Memorial on Friday that the day is about acknowledging the service and sacrifice of thousands of New Zealanders who took part in the bitter struggle.
"This ceremony reflects the development of our Navy and Air Force, in particular, in the Second World War.
"Many New Zealanders participated in the Battle of the Atlantic (and) did so in the ships and squadrons of the Royal Navy, Fleet Air Arm and Royal Air Force coastal command."
Lance Lukin said most of the New Zealanders who took part in the Battle of the Atlantic served under the British flag.
Government minister Paula Bennett at the National War Memorial. Photo: RNZ
