The original memorial gates were designed by engineer, A.K. (Tony) Thorne and dedicated in May 1952.
The left pillar with the light was dedicated to those former students who had served overseas in both World Wars I & II. "They Serve Their Country".
The right hand 'incomplete' pillar was to those who died on service."They Gave their All".
The gates were subsequently removed to improve traffic flow and the plaques re-dedicated on smaller pillars adjoining the school quadrangle; the left-hand one now being the shorter and the right-hand one with the light, the taller. A ceremony was held on Armistice Day 1980 to re-dedicate the plaques.
Related Items:
West End Memorial Gates: School Honours Former Pupils (Taranaki Herald 1 May 1952)
West End Memorial Gates Unveiled (Taranaki Herald 5 May 1952)
Memorial's Removal Draws Flak (Taranaki Herald 30 Jan 1980)
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