Unsung Héros

 In a speech on August 20, 1940, Winston Churchill delivered his now iconic and famous line, "Never in the field of human conflict was so much owed by so many to so few”. He was of course, addressing the heroic efforts of the Royal Air Force and its pilots of various nationalities, who during World War II courageously fought in the Battle of Britain. 

The aerial battle raged for one-hundred days over the summer of 1940. A symphony of courage and determination that unfolded amidst the billowing clouds and echoing thunder of powerful aircraft engines. A sky full of Spitfires and Hurricanes, like agile dancers, pirouetting in a deadly duel with the Luftwaffe's menacing Messerschmitts. The skies above Britain became a canvas for a masterpiece of human resilience and valour. It was a battle not just of aircraft, but much more significantly, it was a testament to the triumph of human spirit against overwhelming odds. 

Eighty-three years after Winston Churchill’s speech, we still continue to ponder his words, particularly on Battle of Britain Day, commemorated annually on the 15th September. Just a small handful of the people addressed in his speech are still alive today. However, Churchill’s words are just as applicable to everyday life, in every community, everywhere.

All around us, often unnoticed, are selfless Individuals who willingly give up their own personal interests, comfort, or well-being for the greater good of society or a specific cause. This can take many forms, such as individuals dedicating their time, resources, or even their lives to help others, to resolve conflicts or advance particular social or humanitarian goals. 

Unsung hero’s seamlessly interlace every community and immeasurably enhance our everyday life. So, in an adaption of Winston Churchill’s words…”Everywhere on every day, so much is owed by so many of us to so few”.

A couple of hero's from the Battle of Britain. F/O Alan (Al) Deere (NZ) & F/O Colin Townsend Gray (NZ) - 54 Squadron RAF

Everyday heroes in our community...paramedic volunteers helping the the sick and injured. 

The summit of Mt Cook is 3724m (12.217 ft). It is literally the top of New Zealand and you can’t get any higher in the New Zealand to rescue anyone. The injured man was stuck on the very top of the mountain. 

Taupo based Greenlea Rescue Helicopter attending an accident scene where a person sustained multiple serious injuries. 

Spitfire as flown in the Battle of Britain (New Zealand Air Force Collection)