Anzac Day will bring a few memories tumbling back for 91-year-old Whanganui man Ed Anderson, who served with the New Zealand navy in World War II.
As a young man he was on board the USS Missouri when Japan signed the peace treaty to end the Pacific war on September 2, 1945.
"We stood to attention on board America's 48,000-tonne ship with all crews aboard - it was the biggest ship in the world at that time.
"All the boys there had served to the best of their ability. There was a wonderful
combination of troops from Whanganui and all over New Zealand."
Born in New Plymouth after his family emigrated from Scotland, Mr Anderson now lives in Whanganui with his wife, Pat.
Wearing his seven war medals proudly, he shared a few of his wartime memories with the Chronicle.
Mr Anderson, known as "Jock" in the navy because of his Scottish accent, said there was nothing romantic about war.
He was just 17 when he enlisted to fight.
"I was scared, but if there was one thing I learnt from war, it was discipline. The more service you had there, the more discipline you gained.
"I turned 20 years old as we sailed home to New Zealand - on September 7, 1945 - that was quite memorable. I remember coming home to mum and dad, who were very happy to see me indeed."
Back home in New Zealand, he completed his building apprenticeship before continuing to serve in the New Zealand Navy in Korea. He served 25 years altogether.
The naval veteran said there had been a huge improvement in the way Anzac Day was celebrated these days and he was pleased to see many young people showing a interest.
"It really makes me happy seeing the young people that attend the service. People have started to have more of an understanding about the world wars and the veterans, which is great."