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
Wording in captions by Vince Ashworth.
All photos on this page
© 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.
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!
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.
Vince Ashworth, proudly wearing similar medals to those won by his brother; May Ashworth and Sarah Dennis.
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.
Article in Oissel newspaper - 12 June 2006
Monsieur Alain Fissot, the monumentalist who designed, arranged for the production, and then installation, of the memorial stone. A real gentleman.
Vince Ashworth standing proudly beside the memorial.
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)