Sad day for the Veteran and Mrs Veteran. Epihana Ratapu, the last (but one) surviving member of 28 (Maori) Battalion passed way today aged 98. He was family (by extension). Epihana served in North Africa and Italy and Japan (as a member of J Force). He was a bit of a rascal having achieved the rank of (temporary) Corporal and was known by his mates as Dad, Pop or Uncle Pine.

There will be a family service for Epihana in Masterton this weekend before he is taken to Tokomaru Bay for interment with full military honours.

Rest easy soldier … you have done your duty. RIP Epihana.