Fitting day for old soldier's funeral

A fitting day to be laid to rest awaits another respected World War II veteran today.

The funeral of Les Clare, a former 23rd Battalion private, is being held after commemorations this afternoon.

The 87-year-old died last Wednesday.

More than 6000 served in the battalion throughout campaigns in North Africa, Italy and Greece. Lieutenant-General Sir Bernard Freyberg, New Zealand's most prominent military commander, once said the 23rd Battalion had the most distinguished record of all the 2nd New Zealand Expeditionary Force units.

Friend Norm Reed said Clare was a long-serving member of the 23rd Battalion Association committee and a fervent supporter of the Returned Services' Association.

"He was a good member of the battalion and worked hard for our association until we wound up (in 2007)."

Christchurch RSA president Russell Barron said the regularity of Anzac Day funerals for veterans was increasing.

Those who served were now in a 10-year age bracket between 83 and 93, he said.

Barron expected about 500 World War II veterans at today's dawn service in Christchurch.

- © Fairfax NZ News