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A wreath for the Merchant Navy - Source: ONE News -
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Sailors who risked their lives, out of uniform, to help fight during World War II will finally be recognised for their efforts.
A year ago ONE News took the Merchant Navy's concerns to the government, which today announced they would have their own day of remembrance.
Arts, Culture and Heritage Minister Christopher Finlayson said September 3, the day the first British Merchant Navy ship sank in 1939, would now officially be recognised in New Zealand as Merchant Navy Day.
"They deserve to be recognised, they were every much part of the war effort, their contribution ensured the defeat of Hitler as much as those who served in the army, navy and the air force," said Finlayson.
Considered the fourth service, the Merchant Navy, made up of civilian ships and sailors, carried soldiers and vital supplies to Europe during World War II.
Seven New Zealand ships and more than 130 sailors were known to have been lost at sea.
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