106 years ago, members of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade climbed a simple orchard ladder to liberate the town of Le Quesnoy. Today, the symbol of the ladder, Te Arawhata, reminds us of the freedom they fought for and the friendship that was forged on that day, November 4th, between Le Quesnoy and New Zealand.
We were honoured this year to inaugurate a plaque on the very site where the ladder was posed, and Second Lieutenant Averill led the New Zealanders over the walls. A collaboration between the municipality and Te Arawhata, this plaque now reminds visitors of the extraordinary act to liberate the town which is still the pride of New Zealanders today.
I was indeed incredibly proud to participate in this year’s commemorations of the liberation of the town. Night had fallen and the air was crisp as the largest contingent in recent memory set off from Te Arawhata at 6pm.
Officials, townspeople and a group of Kiwis paraded the streets of Le Quesnoy to arrive at the New Zealand Memorial. Wreaths were laid and moving renditions of God Defend New Zealand and the Marseillaise concluded the official commemorations. You can see photos and read more about the commemorations below and in our events gallery.
As a busy month continues here in Le Quesnoy and the temperature steadily drops, we are grateful for these important moments of reflection, to consider our past and the sacrifices that were made for a better future and the values we must continue to hold close today.