NZ military history made in Wanganui - 10/05/2010Krupp Gun firing goes with a bang!
On Saturday, May 8, a unique piece of New Zealand’s military history was celebrated with the successful firing of the restored Krupp Gun.
The Krupp Gun found its way to Wanganui after being cast and created in Germany, provided to the Boer republic of Orange Free State, and used against colonial forces in the Boer War. It has been fully restored and is the only operational piece of artillery of its type in the world.
Mayor Michael Laws officially received the gun at a civic ceremony on the forecourt of Wanganui’s War Memorial Hall. The Krupp Gun will take permanent residence in the War Memorial Hall and be available for use at Anzac and Remembrance Day ceremonies.
The highlight of the civic parade and handover was the firing of the Krupp Gun at 12 noon, which was witnessed by invited guests including Chief of Army Major General Jones, councillors and hundreds of Wanganui people.
Mayor Laws described Saturday’s ceremony as “an awesome occasion, creating NZ military history in Wanganui”.
“The firing of the Krupp Gun was the culmination of a huge project led by local restorers Geoff Lawson and Martin Emerson. What they have achieved is remarkable. It is an outstanding effort and one which the people of Wanganui, and New Zealand, should be forever grateful.”
The work of Geoff Lawson and Martin Emerson was recongised at the handover ceremony. Mayor Michael Laws has bestowed a civic award on both men.
ENDS
To view official photographs from the event click here
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