Memorial Plaque Unveiling
Oissel, France, 10 June 2006
‘We that are left will pass by this way, but he will be remembered in the valley of the River Seine, where a tiny part of France will remain a part of New Zealand forever.’
Vince Ashworth
© Ashworth family
The limestone cliffs that the allied pilots apparently used as a landmark to tell them they were over the target. It is nearly opposite where the barges were sheltering on August 3 1944, and the place where Corran died.
© Ashworth family
Prayers were said for Corran over the site where it is believed he lies. A wreath was laid on the river at this spot.
Following the ceremony and laying of the wreath we watch in somber silence as it drifts slowly away with the current of the river. A very sombre and emotional moment!
© Ashworth family
Vince Ashworth reading from the Bible (John 15 v 13 - Greater love has no man than this: that a man lay down his life for his friends) before the laying of the wreaths.
© Ashworth family
Vince Ashworth, proudly wearing similar medals to those won by his brother; May Ashworth and Sarah Dennis.
© Ashworth family
From left: RAF Squadron Leader, RNZAF WG CDR Brett Marshall; Ms Sarah Dennis, New Zealand Ambassador to France; Mme Briggitte Briere’ Rouen Veterans Assoc; Author; Herr Bauerbach, German Consul-General, Rouen; May Ashworth; Simon Ashworth; Veterans Flag Bearers.
© Ashworth family
Article in Oissel newspaper
12 June 2006
© Ashworth family
Monsieur Alain Fissot, the monumentalist who designed, arranged for the production, and then installation, of the memorial stone. A real gentleman.
© Ashworth family
Vince Ashworth standing proudly beside the memorial.
© Ashworth family
After the Consecration (from left): Simon Ashworth (Vince’s son), Corran Ashworth (son of Artie Ashworth), May Ashworth, Vince Ashworth, Michael Busby (nephew of May Ashworth)
© Ashworth family
Proudly wearing Corran’s Medals, a grateful brother reflects on an emotional and memorable day. And what might have been had Corran lived.