Happy 100th birthday to Con Thode, New Zealand’s first and only submarine commander in World War Two and long-time sailing master for the Spirit of Adventure Trust.
NZ’s only sub commander celebrates 100
New Zealand’s only submarine commander celebrated his 100th birthday today, with hundreds of people from his local sailing community.
Con Thode and 260 friends and family had his birthday bash at the Royal Yacht Squadron to celebrate the milestone in style.
“I’m very proud to have Con as my great grandfather because he drives, he sails and he’s 100,” said great grandson Joshua Lincoln.
The Queen also paid her respects by sending in the famous letter for Thode to read out to the party.
Thode was prompted to join the Navy after a German fleet bombed the Liverpool restaurant he was eating in. He then went on to become New Zealand’s first and only submarine commander in World War Two.
Thode has spent many years at the helm of the Spirit Of Adventure introducing young sailors to the water, a lifestyle he loves.
“Something under the sail with a good breeze going along fairly rapidly is just the greatest thrill of mine.”
Hello Connel.
First of all, my congratulations on a hearty cenntenial achievement.
I am contacting you on the off-chance that you may be Laurie Thode’s brother ?Laurie was killed on service in theMiddle East in 1943. My parents, Lip and Tos Sandler were very close friends with Laurie. I have found a small amount of correspondence, and a photo, from Laurie to my parents dated between 1941–43. Although my parents talked most fondly of Laurie, I would like to pass this written connection to a member of the Thode family. If I am on the right track, can you please advise me who to send these writings to ?
Many thanks,
Warwick Sandler