10 August 2004

Hon Jim Anderton MP, Progressive Leader

Colonel Malone gets parliamentary recognition at last

A commemorative plaque for one of New Zealand¹s greatest war heroes will be installed prominently during the refurbishment of the Beehive Progressive Leader Jim Anderton announced today.

Colonel William Malone led the Wellington regiment in an assault on Chunuk Bair during the first world war's Gallipoli campaign.

On the 8th of August 1915 Colonel Malone and his men gallantly captured the crucial ridge at Chunuk Bair, and held it for nearly 24 hours. In the face of overwhelming counter-attacks Colonel Malone lost his life and most of his gallant men were either killed or wounded.

Jim Anderton has campaigned for recognition for Colonel Malone for a decade and a half.

"Colonel Malone's courage and qualities as a person are an inspiration to all New Zealanders. It is impossible to read his story without admiring the man and his leadership.

"In some ways New Zealand's identity as a nation was forged that night on Chunuk Bair and Colonel Malone leadership was an example of every quality New Zealanders admire in ourselves.

Jim Anderton has twice unsuccessfully introduced Bills into the House to recognise Colonel Malone.

"I am very pleased that after 15 years of campaigning for recognition, plans are now well advanced for a commemorative plaque to be placed in a prominent public area of the Beehive.

"Malone was a gallant New Zealander. I believe it is vital that we commemorate his heroism along with the men of the Wellington regiment and I hope that prominent recognition of his service will be an example to all New Zealanders for generations to come," Jim Anderton said.

ENDS

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