A returned serviceman from New Zealand, John Purcell has embarked on a poignant journey to Samoa with his wife Patricia Purcell to locate his father's resting place and reunite with relatives he has long been separated from. 

This heartfelt endeavor coincides with his special invitation to attend this year's ANZAC Day commemoration as one of the honoured guests.

Mr. Purcell, who has served as the President of the Napier Returned Soldiers Association (R.S.A.) for almost 20 years expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to partake in Samoa's ANZAC Day commemoration this year. 

Reflecting on the significance of the day, he emphasised the enduring importance of commemorating the sacrifices made by servicemen and women.

He said it's a day to remember those who dedicated their lives to be soldiers and nurses but never returned to their loved ones. 

Initially motivated by the quest to locate his father's grave, Mr. Purcell's journey has taken on added significance with the timing of ANZAC Day. 

In light of this, he plans to extend a heartfelt gesture by presenting a gift from the RSA Napier to the RSA in Samoa.

Beyond this symbolic gesture, Mr. Purcell envisions forging stronger ties between RSA branches, recognising the potential for collaboration and support. 

He noted the successful track record of the RSA Napier and expressed a desire to share insights and resources with the RSA in Samoa.

Upon arrival, Mr. Purcell was surprised to discover that the R.S.A. in Samoa operated as a nightclub, with revellers dancing in place of the solemn gatherings customary to R.S.A. halls. 

Furthermore, he observed the absence of an official R.S.A. office in Samoa, prompting him to pledge assistance and guidance to bolster the association's presence and activities.

In reaffirming the enduring legacy of the R.S.A., Mr. Purcell underscored the importance of preserving the institution's name and ethos. 

"No one can take the name R.S.A. and what it stands for," Mr. Purcell said. "ANZAC Day is the one day of the year we remember our soldiers and nurses who went away to serve and never returned home. 

"We are the guardians of remembrance". 

He expressed eagerness to contribute to the growth and development of the RSA in Samoa, ensuring its continued service to veterans and their communities.

When asked whether he would encourage the government to restore having a public holiday on ANZAC as it was done in the past, Mr. Purcell promptly said "no". 

"No because that's something to do with politics of another country," he said. 

"New Zealand and Australia have public holidays on ANZAC Day. And I will not interfere with the decisions made by the government of Samoa. 

"But we can offer our assistance to support and help the R.S.A. in Samoa."

ANZAC Day is an annual commemoration, scheduled for 25 April. It usually features a solemn dawn service at the Apia Clock Tower War Memorial.