Army News Issue 388 - the New Zealand Army

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ISSUE 388
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10 June 2008
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COL Keating
COL Van Den Broek
NZDF Recipients
To be a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM):
Colonel Timothy Keating - Colonels’ List, New Zealand Army
Commander Peter Sullivan - Royal New Zealand Navy
To be an Additional Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM):
Colonel Paul Van Den Broek - Colonels’ List, New Zealand Army
To receive the Distinguished Service Decoration (DSD):
Squadron Leader Gregory Burroughs - Royal New Zealand Air Force
Lieutenant Colonel Helen Cooper - Royal New Zealand Army Logistic Regiment
(The Duke of York’s Own)
Captain Michael De Boer - Royal New Zealand Engineers
Squadron Leader Timothy Evans - Royal New Zealand Air Force
Squadron Leader Timothy Hopkins - Royal New Zealand Air Force
Warrant Officer Robert Martelletti - Royal New Zealand Air Force
Warrant Officer Weapon Technician Wayne Morris - Royal New Zealand Navy
Major Christopher Mortiboy - Royal New Zealand Corps of Signals
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THE QUEEN’S BIRTHDAY HONOURS 2008
LT COL Cooper
MAJ Mortiboy
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Courage, Commitment, Comradeship and Integrity
CAPT De Boer
To be a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM):
Colonel Timothy Keating
Colonel Keating held the appointment of Assistant Chief of the General Staff, Office of Strategy Management from February 2006
to December 2007 and in this role, served as the Chief of Army’s principal strategy coordinator, responsible for central strategic
planning and decision making and for the Army’s performance monitoring and reporting organisation. He was also directed to
further develop the Army Transformation Process. The development of this process was a particularly challenging assignment,
which required a good understanding of the contextual aspects of contemporary and future operational environments and an
alignment of outputs to the future environment in which the New Zealand Army will operate. The Army Transformation Process
will involve new capabilities being brought into service, changes to training and the conduct of exercises and ultimately the
approaches to conflict. This transformation will however provide the government with much improved land force options and an
enhanced responsiveness to be able to act in the national interest. Much of this achievement can be directly attributed to his
work and the leadership he demonstrated across the New Zealand Army, the wider New Zealand Defence Force and the Ministry
of Defence.
To be an Additional Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM):
Colonel Paul Van Den Broek
Colonel Van den Broek then in the rank of Lieutenant Colonel was seconded during 2005 and 2006 to the multi-national
Combined Planning Group in the United States Central Command, as a strategic planner. The quality of the work he produced,
clearly demonstrated that he was the best strategic thinker within the twenty-four nation combined planning group. Several of
the high quality reviews he produced were forwarded directly to the Pentagon and the US Secretary of Defence. From April to
October 2007 he served in Timor Leste as the Deputy Commander of the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) and the Senior
National Officer for the deployed New Zealand contingent. In his Deputy Commander role, he was pivotal in ensuring effective
interaction at the operational level between the ISF, United Nations Police and Timor Leste’s own security forces. His proactive
approach and well developed interpersonal skills were instrumental in coordinating efforts between these agencies. This action
included constantly reinforcing in all forums the ISF role and mandate to ensure a clear delineation of responsibility in regards
to the appropriate forces to be used to secure the environment. His tireless efforts to build trust between the local Timorese
community and the security forces, and his work on a variety of United Nations’ humanitarian and security working groups, has
served to greatly enhance the reputations of the ISF and the Australian and New Zealand Defence Forces in the eyes of both the
Timorese and international communities.
To receive the Distinguished Service Decoration (DSD):
Lieutenant Colonel Helen Cooper
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armynews
Established 10 August 1959
The Army News is published for the Regular and Territorial Force and
civilian staff of the New Zealand Army.
Editor: Judith Martin
phone 04-496-0227 or DTelN 349-7227
fax 04-496-0290
email judith.martin@nzdf.mil.nz
Correspondents:
Linton:
Faye Lougher
Gary Parkes Waiouru:
Pete Smithies Hawke's Bay:Caroline Williams 0274 862 428
027 212 9109
0273 595 341
021 509 699
Website: www.army.mil.nz
Printing: APN Print, Hastings.
design: Duncan Allan, DPRU
Editorial contributions and letters are welcomed. They may be sent direct to the Army News and do not need
to be forwarded through normal command channels. Submit them to The Editor, Army News, DPRU, HQ NZDf,
Private Bag 39994, Wellington, or by email with a hard copy signed with the writer’s name, rank and unit.
Hard-copy submissions should be typed, double-spaced and printed on one side of the paper only.
Nothing in the Army News should be taken as overriding any NZDF regulation. Readers should refer to the
relevant service publication before acting on any information given in this newspaper. ISSN 1170-4411
COVER IMAGE: Private Jarley Hayden, of the GYRO 4 haka party, welcomes the
incoming contingent in Timor Leste, Photo: Corporal Chris Moore, Australian Army.
This publication is produced by:
Lieutenant Colonel Cooper was posted to the newly established office of Army Transformation in January 2006 and given
responsibility to develop significant parts of the Army Transformation Programme (ATP) including the development and oversight
of seven transformation projects and co-ownership of the Army Transformation Structures Project. For much of the subsequent
period, she was the sole full-time Army officer managing the ATP. She maintained responsibility for outcomes well above her rank
or experience level, including coordinating and guiding the efforts of officers, often much senior to her, who were seconded in at
various times as part of the ATP team. Despite the complicated nature of the work, the considerable workload and the handicap
of not having consistent staff support, she continued to perform to a high standard, always focused on the outcome of producing
an optimal Army structure. Her role also changed from one of support and analysis to a principal member of the ATP, advising
Army senior leadership on the future structure of Army. Her efforts also included the development of a key assessment model
(the Cooper model) which underpinned the eventual Force structure considerations.
Major Christopher Mortiboy
Major Mortiboy was appointed in April 2006 to the post of Engineering Project Officer for the Army Command and Control
Battle Laboratory, part of the Army’s Experimentation and Innovation Programme. The aim of the project, in collaboration with
industry, was to identify the most appropriate application of Information Age Capability to facilitate the networking of combat
information across the battlefield of the future. He approached this project with passion and determination, quickly assessing
the many challenges and then establishing excellent productive and mutually beneficial collaborative relationships with industry
partners. In doing so, he succeeded in translating an ambitious vision into a practical, functional plan that will ensure that Army
accurately articulates its capability requirements to industry, incrementally solves issues that arise, and learns vital lessons as it
seeks to meet future capability challenges in a complex fighting and engineering environment. He has done much to ensure that
Army made this quantum leap forward, by becoming familiar with the challenges and requirements of the digitised battlefield
environment.
Captain Michael De Boer
Captain De Boer served as the Plans Officer, on secondment to the Australian Army’s Timor Leste Battle Group Two from June
to October 2007. He was responsible for the planning of numerous operations in an environment characterised by constant
change, limited information and a volatile strategic and political atmosphere. His professional competence saw him placed in
command of a Company sized organisation of Australian Forces, comprising infantry, engineers and numerous specialists, for a
six week period, and charged with containing growing violence and disorder in the notorious Viqueque district of Timor Leste.
This operation was of such importance to the strategic climate that it was afforded the status of the Battle Group’s main effort.
In addition to succeeding in all of his tactical objectives of containing the regional violence, he creatively employed all of his
command’s capabilities to effect a change in the local population’s attitude, which then allowed operations conducted by the
International Stabilisation Force to commence.
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issue 388 10 June 2008
OH 08-0349-63
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“Accept the challenges
– be what you can be”
MAJGEN Gardiner presents the Top Soldier prize to Pte
Dylan Casey. The prize is awarded to the soldier who
has displayed the highest overall results across the
categories, including fitness, field craft, weaponry and
military knowledge
The Red Diamond, worn on the left shoulder of dress uniform, traces its origin to
22 Battalion, 2nd NZ Expeditionary Force, who adopted the patch of 9 NZ Infantry
Brigade deployed as part of the British Commonwealth Occupation of Japan, known
as J Force. In 1947 2 NZEF’S Brigade in Japan was reorganised and 22 Battalion
was re-designated 2 Battalion of the New Zealand Regiment. The battalion was
disbanded in 1948 and reformed in July 1959 when the CO claimed descent for the
new battalion from the re-designated and disbanded, 22 Battalion. In 1963 the 1st
Battalion Depot was formed and the Red Diamond became awarded to personnel
who had completed Infantry Corps training. Later, when the two Battalions of the
NZ Regiment became 1RNZIR and 1st Bn Depot, the patch was worn as a dress
distinction by personnel who were posted to the Unit. From 1964 it was awarded
to soldiers of the 1st Battalion and the 2nd/1st Battalion of the Royal New Zealand
Infantry Regiment who had successfully completed Infantry Corps training. In 2007
the patch was approved to be recognised as a qualification rather than a Corps
distinction and it is awarded to, and worn by, all personnel who have successfully
completed combat corps training regardless of unit or posting.
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the General inspects the ranks
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Why a Red Diamond?
ABOVE: the Queen’s Colour is paraded; BELOW: MAJGEN Gardiner visited
most units within camp, to talk to soldiers. In the vehicle bay he met up with,
from left, Pte Dan Vrahasotakis, LCPL Aaron Clarke, and LCPL Robert Spring;
BOTTOM: PTE Sommer Gisborne receives her netball pocket for distinguished
playing ability, from CA
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Forty-five young infantry soldiers were presented with their Red Diamonds at Linton
Camp recently in recognition of the completion of their cavalry training and integration
into their Cavalry Company – Whiskey Company, I RNZIR.
The Red Diamond is a qualification badge worn by members of the New Zealand
Army who have completed combat corps training.
Chief of Army, MAJGEN Lou Gardiner reviewed the parade, and presented the Red
Diamonds as well as course prizes, and medals to other personnel from 1 RNZIR.
He told the soldiers and their families who had gathered for the parade that
the occasion was the culmination of 12 weeks of intense cavalry training. The Red
Diamonds were a symbol of their integration into the company.
“Today is a very important and proud day for these young soldiers. It marks their
graduation into a combat corps, and their acceptance to serve as infantrymen. The
Battalion is proud to accept you into its ranks.”
Addressing the families, MAJGEN Gardiner told them they should be “rightfully
proud of their sons and daughter who had opted to serve. Thank you for your support
– we owe you a lot. We are in a challenging career, and we cannot do what we have to
do without your support as families.”
He told the soldiers to also be proud of what they had achieved.
“I urge you to continue to accept the challenges and strive for excellence in
everything you do. Be what you can be.”
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a warrior leads the parade
MAJGEN Gardiner presents the Most Improved Soldier
Award to PTE Wayne Lallu. The award is for the soldier
who has displayed a marked improvement throughout
the course and has finished with an overall excellent
result
Letters to the Editor
Betty May a friend to many
Betty May Browne, the Levin woman who befriended 16 Field
Regiment for 43 years, had a genuine affection for all NZDF
people.
Betty May died in April after a long illness, and had a semimilitary funeral at Linton Military Camp.(See Army News 387)
While Betty May especially adopted an Army unit, she also
had a soft spot for the RNZAF, especially the now disbanded 14
Squadron.
I was chaplain to RNZAF Base Ohakea from 1990 to 93 and
during that time a 14 Sqn pilot came over to my office and asked
me what to do with a plaque that had arrived in the mail from
Betty May. It was a simple little plaque but inscribed on it were
the words: “In memory of Herbie Stevens. From Betty May.”
“Aha”, I thought with the wisdom of my years, “I bet she is still
grieving a dead fiancee.” Not so.
The pilot and I visited the good lady in Levin and enjoyed
a most interesting time with her, for through her lovable
eccentricity shone a genuine affection for all NZDF people and
a practical concern for the morale and welfare of many of them.
She explained the inscription on the plaque. Herbie Stevens
was her elder brother’s best friend who, at the war’s beginning,
had trained as an Air Gunner in the Air Force and was on his final
leave before going overseas.
Betty May said she was quite distraught at the time so kissed
him goodbye and said she hoped he would come safely home.
She went on to say that Herbie gave her a direct look and said:
“I will not be coming home.” Indeed, he did not. I had Herbie
Stevens’ file with me and it related how he died in the crash of a
fully laden Wellington Bomber as it took off on a raid from a base
in Egypt.
Her little plaque now hangs on the wall of the Ohakea chapel as
a tribute to the courage of all the young people who trained and
then went overseas into action and who knew full well they were
unlikely ever to see their home, families or friends ever again.
Betty May is fondly remembered by many, including myself. I
count myself fortunate to have met her.
Group Captain John Neal, Principal Defence Chaplain.
An environmentally sound Army
I would like to see you run an article on the steps the Army is taking to provide for
a sustainable future in camps and bases. I’d like to know what the Army is doing re
its carbon footprint, and how it is educating soldiers on sustainability.
Toni Larkin
Research is underway for an article in the very near future on the NZDF and
sustainability – Ed.
What about our Solomon boys and girls?
I have recently read your fine publication; please keep up the good work. I noticed
however there appears to be very little information about what the New Zealand
soldiers are doing in the Solomon Islands. My grandson, who is in the Territorial
Forces, has served there recently. By all accounts they are working hard there and
achieving a lot, and it would be nice to see something in Army News.
M. Hutchison
We will endeavour to provide a Solomons update in our next issue – Ed.
Have your say. Keep it brief and send it to judith.martin@nzdf.mil.nz
04NEWS
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Tropic Twilight
serving new zealand loyally and honourably
FIGHTING FIT
Major David Voss ED (clasp), Auckland based
Specialist Renal Physician, Territorial Force
Medical Officer, and NZ National Leader for the
5-nation technical panel on Human Performance
discusses some of the agents commonly used in
performance enhancement.
Performance Enhancement
(or stimulants)
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LCpl Leah Adams is in charge of looking after supplies in the general store.
MAJ Paul Kendall and CAPT Shaun Fitzell check the autoclave.
Cook Island residents will have their health needs attended to over the next
fortnight by a 40 strong contingent of mainly Army health professionals during
Exercise Tropic Twilight 08.
The team includes both Regular Force and Territorial Force nurses and medics,
a TF dental team, as well as several Civilian Volunteer Health Service personnel. It
expects to carry out about 50 operations, tend to the dental health of about 300
college pupils, check the environmental conditions at Rarotonga Hospital, and
conduct First Aid training as well as Advanced Cardiac Life Support courses.
The commanding officer of the contingent is 2 HSB’s Executive Officer, Major
Paul Kendall.
Nursing officer Captain Shaun Fitzell, second –in-charge of the contingent, says
the Cook Island government scanned its outer islands as well as the main island of
Rarotonga to find suitable patients for the team to treat. Those patients are being
brought to the main hospital in Rarotonga where their surgery is being done using
equipment sponsored by NZ AID.
“The operations are for a variety of reasons, such as hernias, cysts, thyroid
conditions, and ear, nose and throat ailments. They are mostly cases that can’t, for
various reasons, be dealt with by existing Cook Islands health professionals.”
Captain Fitzell says the teeth of all 630 students at a local college have been
scanned, and any dental work that is needed will be carried out by the contingent’s
dentist, trainee dentist,dental hygienist, and two dental assistants.
The environmental health team will complete a detailed assessment of the
Rarotonga Hospital, including the hospital’s water sources, food-related areas, and
vector control.
Contingent members will conduct two first aid refresher courses for local police
and nurses, as well as four advanced cardiac life support courses for local doctors,
surgeons, nurses and paramedics.
Captain Fitzell says the team has taken its own surgical equipment with it,
including drugs, bandages, gloves, gowns and instruments. “We only found out
shortly before we left exactly what sort of operations we would be performing, but
that is good training for when we have to respond to emergency deployments.”
The contingent will return to New Zealand on June 22.
Advertising is drenched in agents claiming to enhance
physical and mental (cognitive) performance. From readily
available agents such as caffeine, through to amphetamines
and sildenafil (aka Viagra®) the individual is bombarded
daily with information. Some of the marketing claims are
unfounded, unsubstantiated or simply lack evidence. Many
people are using these agents without balanced advice. How
can the average NZDF employee sort out the wheat from the
chaff?
Performance agents (e.g. caffeine and amphetamine) need
to be separated from dietary supplements (e.g. Multivitamins,
minerals supplements and Centrum®) and food, fluid and
electrolyte replacements (e.g. Powerade®, and Mizone®).
This article addresses only the performance enhancing
agents. Illicit agents (inappropriately called party drugs) such
as “E” and “P” are similarly not discussed here.
Many performance enhancing agents are available in
combination. In some cases the active ingredient(s) are in
a quantity that is ineffective (not to a level to achieve the
desired or claimed effect), or sold in a format to make the
agent more easily consumed (e.g. ready-to-drink) – often
with substantial price mark-up. “Performance drinks” such
as “5-hour energy”, “V” or “Red Bull” probably only have one
effective performance enhancing agent – caffeine. The sugars
contained in these agents will provide some energy (so would
a barley sugar or teaspoon of sugar). The guarana and taurine
probably have no additional performance enhancement
properties alone. Taurine has been shown to improve heart
pump function at doses up to 8000mg. An individual will need
to drink over 3 litres of V® to get this amount of taurine.
Most minerals and vitamins are in adequate supply in
a balanced diet of freshly harvested (in-season), freshly
prepared and eaten foods. This may not always be feasible
in the “rat pack” based diet consumed by deployed military
personnel. Taking supplements of vitamins and minerals from
the chemist shop may be beneficial if relying on ratpacks for
prolonged periods. Wet rations (hot boxes) in the field are
provided wherever practicable in long duration deployments
for this specific reason. Supplementing the diet with vitamins
and minerals will not enhance an individual’s physical
performance.
The internet is a frequent source of information on these
agents. With such readily available information, the reader
may be lead (or misled) to the conclusion the information is
valid or from a reputable source; and use the agent. There
are few good quality studies on performance enhancement
agents. Users fail to report their true frequency of use or
quantity. There are people with knowledge on performance
enhancing agents, particularly in regards to their effectiveness
and safety. I strongly
encourage the reader to seek valid information prior to
trialling performance enhancing agents; and before spending
their hard-earned money, or risking their health.
Your local NZDF Medical Officer is likely to be the most
readily available authoritative person within NZDF with the
required balanced information. The MO will be able to apply
the information relevant to you. The MO will allow for your
health and performance demanded by your appointment
within NZDF. If the MO does not have the information, he/
she is able to get the information from sources within NZDF,
including the author of this article. Such information may
need to be worked into a training programme with your PTI.
Caffeine is an extensively studied, wide used, relatively
safe and readily available human performance enhancer.
It improves both physical performance (e.g. shortens run
times - I can see the espresso machine at the RFL start line),
concentration and alertness. Tiredness can be reduced
and periods of concentration be maintained with the use of
caffeine. How much caffeine is needed depends whether or not
the individual is a regular user of caffeine. We have observed
that up to 800mg of caffeine over eight hours (about 8 to 10
cups of coffee) can maintain alertness and physical endurance
in the sleep deprived state. Such a benefit can be realised
in the military setting where night watch on vessels, OP
duties, and time lag with sorties (especially long flight times
transgressing time zones) require the sustained vigilance.
A further benefit of caffeine is its onset of action within
minutes (faster onset when chewed as a gum compared with
drinking a cup of coffee), and alertness effect wears off within
a few hours; thus sleep at the end of the duty is not affected.
Many other (legal or otherwise) cognitive performance agents,
e.g. modafinal, amphetamine and ephedrine (aka Ma-Huang)
have prolonged effects or more adverse side-effects compared
to caffeine.
Performance enhancing agents are no substitute for good
planning, effective command, wise leadership, appropriate
training and rest. Sustained operations or the demands of
deployed defence force personnel may be assisted with
judicious use of performance enhancing agents.
Key Points
Many performance enhancing agents constituents have no benefit.
Performance enhancers are no replacement for training, planning and
leadership.
Some performance enhancement agents are illegal.
Some agents have varying levels of purity or effect. Check the manufacturer’s
claims and compare active ingredients amount – the more expensive item may
have no more active ingredient(s).
Some products are marketed with levels in a dose below that which is effective.
Take care in buying over the internet – especially from overseas; as the product
you are buying may require special clearance by NZ Customs. Your hard earned
money could be lost if Customs seize the product.
Seek advice from your medical officer before using.
issue 388 10 June 2008
news05
TG Gyro Four troops return
home from Timor Leste….
A tour of duty in Timor-Leste which saw the attempted assassination of Timor-Leste’s Prime Minister and the death of rebel
leader Alfredo Reinado ended for 142 New Zealand Defence Force personnel when they returned home on May 19.
Army Company Commander Major Chad Preece said the Kiwi contingent had worked really hard and were looking forward to
returning to their loved ones, especially after missing special family occasions like Christmas.
“It’s been a busy six months in a constantly changing situation, and I’m proud to have been part of a team that has stepped
up to challenges presented by developments in the security and political climate in Timor-Leste during that time. Everyone is
looking forward to getting home.”
The company drawn mainly from 2/1 RNZIR based in Burnham are the fourth rotation to serve in Timor-Leste since troops were
again committed in May 2006, and they were welcomed by Commander Joint Forces New Zealand Major General Rhys Jones,
family and friends.
and TG Gyro 5 arrives…
By Second Lieutenant Bernie Lawton
Sunday the 11th of May TG GYRO 5 arrived safely into Dili. A quick drive to Kiwi Lines gaining hearts and minds along the way
and it was time to pull out the pukanas. The heat was extreme and the adrenalin rush was kicking in. Warriors from TG GYRO 4
commenced the powhiri with the wero and laid down a taki. The OC TG GYRO 5, Major Jason Dyhrberg, took up the challenge.
Hundreds of onlookers had gathered as TG GYRO 5 advanced.
TG GYRO 4 cried,
“He aha te mahi o nga hoia” What is the job of the soldiers?
Major Dyhrberg acknowledged their haka and taking the lead TG GYRO 5 advanced once again to commence their haka. The
haka was especially written by Sergeant Shannon Tahu. The feeling amongst the soldiers was, “How we start is how we are going
to finish, hard”.
The ground shook and the onlookers trembled as the family of TG GYRO 5 let out a war cry,
“Mo matau kua reri nga pu hei haruru te whenua” Our weapons are ready to rumble the earth.
“Kura takahi puni” We are ready
“Adeus kolega’s” Farewell my friends
PTE George Tumata of TG GYRO 4 leads the wero. Photo: Australian Army
IT’S A JOB OUT OF THE ORDINARY . . .
S
’
OM
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OPEN
NOW
NEW ZEALAND FIELD
INTELLIGENCE
TRI-SERVICE COURSE
PRE ENTRY TESTING:
21 Jul – 3 Aug 08 (3 day blocks)
COURSE DATES:
18 Aug – 26 Sep 08
CONTACT E
mail: 1 (NZ) MI COY or Ph 3477336
More info. at:
awi-teams/ATG/LOTC/SMIS
HAVE YOU GOT WHAT IT TAKES?
Courage, Commitment, Comradeship and Integrity
OH 08-0320-05
Joint Kiwi a success
By Jane Mortlock
Both the New Zealand and Australian Defence Forces are hailing Exercise Joint Kiwi
08 a success, following a week at sea on a round trip from Lyttelton to Napier.
New Zealand and Australia experience a close and longstanding defence
relationship, with similar regional interests in security and stability in the Pacific.
The New Zealand-led exercise was aimed at improving interoperability between both
nations.
The exercise was straightforward – the Government of Motatapu Islands (GOMI)
was experiencing destabilising influences through Free Island Party (FIP) insurgency
action throughout the island chain. GOMI requested assistance from Australia and
New Zealand in order to stabilise the situation by capturing the FIP leadership, who
were meeting on off- shore Hawke Island, thereby neutralising the insurgency by
removing the leadership.
A Combined Joint Task Force (CTF) was raised consisting of the Australian LPA
(Landing Platform Amphibious) war ship HMAS MANOORA, an amphibious command
element from HMNZS CANTERBURY and a New Zealand Land Forces Combat Team
component provided by Queen Alexandra’s Mounted Rifles and Bravo Company, 2/1
RNZIR. They sailed from Lyttelton to Napier on HMAS MANOORA, bringing with them
12 LAV, 6 LOV, 1 M1089 recovery truck and eight Unimogs.
As part of the exercise the New Zealand and Australian Defence Forces conducted
amphibious beach landings and withdrawals, designed to increase joint preparation
between the two countries, for emergency relief and wider operational employment.
As a notable first this exercise was the first time NZLAV had been landed amphibiously
since its introduction into service in New Zealand in 2004. All vehicles were
successfully landed ‘on the beach’ on 15 May.
Once ashore the QAMR Combat Team rapidly deployed into the area of the proposed
meeting, established observation onto the target building using a combination of
manned observation posts, Remote Ground Sensors
(RGS) and, on the morning of the cordon, an unmanned
aerial vehicle (UAV) from 16 Fd Regt. The Combat
Team then established a cordon in order to seal off
the area which resulted in the successful capture of
the 3 key FIP leaders (role players provided by 7 WHB
Bn Gp). A Sea King helicopter from HMAS Manoora
was dispatched to the area to uplift the detainees and
return them to the ship and eventual hand over to the
GOMI. A rapid withdrawal was then conducted back to
‘Red Beach 1’ at Napier with the key point security of a
vital bridge being provided by 7 Bn. The Combat team
was re-embarked before last light on 17 May.
“This was a great opportunity for the New
Zealand Army and Navy to gain further experience in
amphibious operations leveraging off the Australians’
considerable skills,” said Major Mike Duncan, Squadron Commander of QAMR
“Our forces are currently deployed together operationally in Solomon Islands and
Timor-Leste. Exercise Joint Kiwi is just one of a number of exercises that Australia and
New Zealand conduct together to increase our capabilities and better prepare us for
combined operations. The experience has also been the platform for building a strong
relationship between QAMR and HMNZS CANTERBURY, a relationship that both units
look forward to strengthening in the future.”
Despite the odd bout of seasickness, Exercise Joint Kiwi was a great success. “We
were able to achieve what we set out to, and so much more. The New Zealand-led
exercise was aimed at improving interoperability between not only the NZ Army
and Navy by also both nations, and giving our soldiers a very realistic amphibious
experience travelling by war ship. Working closely with the HMAS MANOORA ship’s
company gave us a better understanding of day to day life on board a war ship, and
for us, that was invaluable.”
ROMANI & JOINT KIWI:
QAMR is put through its paces
Queen Alexandras’s Mounted Rifles Company
conducted one of their main exercises recently,
as Second Lieutenant Jarrod Saunders, QAMR,
reports on Exercises Romani and Joint Kiwi:
Exercise Romani
At dawn on April 28, the men and woman of Queen
Alexandra’s Mounted Rifles were busy conducting final
preparations of their vehicles and personal equipment before
departing the Command Joint Task Force (CJTF) Headquarters
(Burnham Camp) to capture the Free Island Party (FIP) terrorists
trying to destabilise the Government of Motatapu Island.
The first phase of the exercise saw all three troops dispersed
over the middle of the South Island conducting reconnaissance
on a number of routes through the Lees Valley to Hawarden,
Kaikoura, and up to St Arnaud though the Molesworth, St
James and Rainbow stations to establish if the routes were
capable of taking a truck and trailer. It was also to establish
whether some of the areas would be suitable for the placement
of refugee camps to house the influx of people escaping the
fighting in the north. This saw the New Zealand Light Armoured
Vehicle (NZLAV) Cavalry Troops covering quite a few kilometres
as they advanced up the
island. The first time the
troops saw each other
was on the night of the
29th at a squadron
hide to the west of
St Arnaud to regroup
and receive orders
for the redeployment
to the Mawhera and
Hochstetter forests on
the West Coast.
After a night of rest the
troops drove to the West
Photo: The Press
Coast and moved in to
individual troop Area of
Operations (AO) to try and capture the FIP cadre operating in the
forests, as the enemy prepared to try to disrupt the up coming
Provincial leaders meeting at Seaview Estate in Hokitika. The
troops immediately started to build a picture of activity in the
area by putting out electronic surveillance equipment and
conducting observation posts (OP) in areas of interest.
The squadron received good intelligence that a meeting
between the Cadre Staff was going to happen in the Mawhera
Forest at a little secluded place called No Town Two and three
Troop moved from their AOs and redeployed into 1 Troop’s AO
to conduct a cordon to capture the terrorists. The cordon was
set and 2 Troop swooped to capture the enemy at the meeting
with 1 Troop close by in an OP giving constant updates. The
terrorists were captured and handed over to the authorities
and this meant that the FIP’s plans to interfere with the
Provincial Leaders’ meeting in Hokitika had been delivered a
serious blow.
The squadron moved from the forest to the Greymouth
Army office where a brief pause in operations gave the public
a chance to talk to the crews and look over the vehicles. The
squadron then deployed to Seaview Estate, which included
security for the Provincial leaders as they met to discuss the
future of Motatapu Island. The remaining FIP insurgents tried
various methods to disrupt the meeting, including the use of
snipers, improvised explosive devices (IED), and the smuggling
of weapons into the meeting location. The squadron was
successful in making sure that the leaders were kept safe and
able to discuss the future of the island.
Exercise Joint Kiwi
After the success on the West Coast the squadron was then
tasked to move to Lyttleton to board the HMAS Manoora
and redeploy to Hawk Island to capture the senior FIP leaders
meeting in Ongaonga (the central Hawkes Bay, provided by
7 Wellington Hawke’s Bay Battalion Group). The squadron
married up with B Company from 2/1 Battalion at the West
Melton Range. The move to and loading of the vehicles
onboard the HMAS Manoora was done with relative ease
and that night the task force sailed towards Hawk Island to
conduct an amphibious landing at Red Beach 1 (Perfume Point,
Napier). The plan to conduct some rehearsals of the landing
was hampered by sea conditions; however this did not deter
the crew of the ship from getting the vehicles ashore on time.
In the early hours of the morning of 15 May the first NZLAV
drove off the Landing Craft and up the mats onto the beach.
The troops then moved off to their hides and waited for H Hour
from the OC.
It was over as quickly as it had begun. All the troops played
their part in the plan and the leaders were captured. The
enemy had no chance to escape as the NZLAV’s sped towards
the target. The infantry in the back of the NZLAV cleared
the target building and apprehended the leaders with the
operation under the observation of 1 Troop OP’s and the 16
Field Regiment Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). The leaders
were apprehended in a matter of minutes and flown back to
the HMAS Manoora onboard the Sea King helicopter.
The cordon was withdrawn and the troops moved back to
the boat and set off for home as the last rays of light faded from
the sky. The operation was a huge success as it meant that the
mayhem that the FIP had imposed on the Motatapu Island
chain over the last few years had been brought to a close.
QAMR would like to thank B Company 2/1 RNZIR, the MTC,
3 Signals Squadron, 3 Logistic Battalion, 3 Field Troop and the
16 Field Regiment for their provision of manpower to make the
exercise such a success.
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16 Field Regiment fire a 37 round salute to the Vietnam fallen.
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honours
Vietnam vets
Flag holders lower the their flags to signify 37 troops who were killed in action in
vietnam.
serving new zealand loyally and honourably
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THIS PAGE: ABOVE: Family members gather outside Parliament holding photographs of their loved ones lost in Vietnam
RIGHT FROM TOP: CA, MAJGEN Lou Gardiner addresses veterans and their supporters in Civic Square, Wellington; Vietnam veteran Lt Rangi
Rata leads the parade; veterans march in Wellington.
There were tears and laughter, and old friendships were rekindled as
well as new ones made when thousands of Vietnam veterans and their
families gathered in Wellington for Tribute 08 over Queen’s Birthday
Weekend.
The veterans were welcomed to the city by Mayor Kerry Prendergast
at a ceremony held in Civic Square which ended with a Beat Retreat
performed by the NZ Army.
An Honour Parade saw veterans, families, Army bands and the
Central Band of the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) marching from
Civic Square to Parliament.
After being greeted by the Prime Minister, family members carried
photos of the 37 personnel who lost their lives in Vietnam into
the Legislative Council Chamber as part of a whakanoa (healing)
ceremony.
On Sunday morning a waka wairua containing the spirits of those
who lost their lives in Vietnam was taken from Legislative Council
Chamber to the National War Memorial in Buckle Street where they
were honoured with a wreath laying ceremony.
The veterans and their families then marched to the Basin Reserve
for a commemoration and celebration including speeches and a 37-gun
salute for each of those killed in Vietnam. His Excellency the Governor
General of New Zealand the Honorable Anand Satyanand received a
Royal Salute from the tri-Service Guard of Honour.
Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant General Jerry Mateparae was
cheered several times and given a standing ovation after he addressed
the veterans.
“I would simply ask for your forgiveness for our shortcomings in the
past, and I apologise for the impact these shortcomings have had on
you and on your families. You served loyally, you served with honour
and I pledge my determination to correct the failings of the past.
I know it is long overdue, but to our New Zealand Vietnam veterans -
welcome home,” he said.
“Our defence involvement in the Vietnam War spanned eight years.
This was the longest commitment of our combat forces to a single
conflict in New Zealand’s military history. Our involvement in the War
has had an impact on our nation, those who served there, and their
families, that continues to this day. The controversy connected with
the Vietnam war was corrosive; it was damning; and for many of the
men and women of the New Zealand Defence Force who served there
it became noxious.
“Since the War, others who served have died prematurely, and many
Vietnam veterans and their families continue to suffer the after-effects
of that service. And that is why we are here this weekend. Tribute
08 is an official and visible show of recognition for the considerable
contribution and sacrifice of the men and women of New Zealand
Defence Force who served in Vietnam. But today it is the turn of the
New Zealand Defence Force to acknowledge your service. I say that you
served loyally, you served with honour, and I pledge my determination
to correct the failings of the past.”
“Today, the Defence Force emphasizes the principle that ‘we’, those
currently serving in our armed forces and veterans alike, are a family
bound together by the ethic of service to our country, a common set
of values, and a professional military culture that reflects our national
heritage and character – a heritage and character you helped create.
“It is clear that many Vietnam veterans believe that the NZDF
has not lived up to these ideals. I want to start to make amends by
personally welcoming all of our Vietnam veterans back into the New
Zealand Defence Force family. I would understand any hesitation on
your part to accept such an embrace. There can be little doubt that you
were let down after you returned from the war, and across subsequent
decades.
“Unreservedly I say that the Defence Force did not do enough to
assist you, our returning veterans – especially those of you who left
the Army, Navy or Air Force soon after returning to New Zealand. Having
been placed in harms way, you arrived back to unwarranted derision.
From the security of comradeship and service, you went out into an
ungrateful and unwelcoming world. Most people cannot start to
imagine how you must have felt.
“The New Zealand Defence Force could, and should have done more
to stand by you, to provide you and your families with refuge from the
storm of negative public opinion you had to weather. NZDF should not
have allowed public concerns about the war to shape how returning
veterans were treated.
“I have also heard you when you have talked about the other
issues that have caused you and your loved ones deep hurt and pain.
I acknowledge here your concern about the maintenance of your
personal and medical records. I believe your expectations around the
integrity and completeness of your files were both fair and reasonable.
NZDF let you down. Fortunately, your entitlements are protected under
the ‘reverse onus of proof’ provisions of the War Pensions Act.
“The issue of your exposure to the defoliant Agent Orange has been
a long and open wound. It is difficult to understand how the critical
information about chemical spraying in the areas where you operated
lay dormant until the Health Select Committee Inquiry in 2003. As a
Defence Force we were too slow in readjusting our position in the face
of growing scientific evidence, as well as statistical and anecdotal
information.
“It was probably inescapable that veterans would interpret this inertia
as a deliberate rebuff – though certainly the Defence Force’s simple
inability to grapple with such a complex issue deserves a good portion
of the blame. I believe that various provisions of the Memorandum
of Understanding, and in particular the Expert Medical Panel which is
about to be established, will help us address this more effectively, both
tribute0809
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During the ceremony 1RNZIR was presented with its Regimental
Colour with the Theatre Honour – Vietnam 1967 - 71, updated to
acknowledge all infantry companies that served in Vietnam.
The ceremony was necessary because the dates of the original
Theatre Honour for South Vietnam did not include the operational
service of all rifle companies that served in Vietnam.
Until now all of the tour by Victor 1, part of the tours of Victor 2 and
Victor 5, and all of the tour of Victor 6 have not been acknowledged
in the Theatre Honour.
Earlier this year, Queen Elizabeth gave Royal Assent for the
Theatre Honour to be amended to cover the period from May
1967 to December 1971 so as to include all of the service of these
companies.
The embroidery on the Regimental Colour has since been
amended accordingly.
NZDF personnel recognised
for service in Vietnam
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THIS PAGE: ABOVE: LTCOL Evan Williams, whose father, the late Col (Rtd) LG Williams served in Vietnam, meets up with two of his father’s friends, veterans
Mike Farland and Brian Cudby
BELOW: Two veterans rest awhile following the civic ceremony.
FAR RIGHT: The NZ Army Band; Vietnam veteran Peter Harris, who came over from Western Australia with Kathy Clark to take part in Tribute 08
Twenty six New Zealand Defence Force personnel who served
in Vietnam were recognised for their service at a ceremony at
Defence House in Wellington on Monday, May 19.
The 26 were presented with the New Zealand General Service
Medal (NZGSM) 1992 (Warlike) with clasp ‘Vietnam’ by the Chief
of Army Major General Lou Gardiner and the Chief of Air Force
Air-Vice Marshal Graham Lintott.
The 26 are a mixture of current New Zealand Army and Royal
New Zealand Air Force personnel, and former servicemen and
foreign affairs staff who are now civilian employees within the
New Zealand Defence Force.
for Vietnam veterans, and for veterans of future deployments as well.
“I also want to note the hurt you have told me about the NZDF attitude
that was evident around Parade ’98. From my point of view this was
certainly a lost opportunity to rebuild the bonds between the Defence
Force and veterans. Here at Tribute08 I am sure you have noticed that
the serving veterans gathered among us today are in uniform. You will
note that they wear the uniform with pride, just as you did.
“This is a pride founded on your earlier service and the service of all
veterans past and present. Unlike the decades immediately following
the Vietnam War, the NZDF of today has reclaimed its rightful place,
standing proudly amongst the New Zealanders we serve, publicly
wearing our uniforms wherever we go.
“Vietnam veterans have made a valuable contribution to the nation
building of New Zealand in many ways. In particular you can be proud
of the legacy you provided for the generations of Service men and
women who followed you. Your knowledge and fighting skills helped
forge the next generation, and lifted considerably the abilities of the
New Zealand Defence Force.”
LTGEN Mateparae paid tribute to what today’s soldiers had learned
from the veterans.
“What has been missing from the balance is acknowledgement that
what you left behind has ensured that the New Zealand Defence Force is
a valued partner around the world, helping to build and keep the peace.
Today we have nearly 700 personnel actively serving in three major
theatres around the globe. We are in countries such as Timor Leste,
the Sinai, Afghanistan and the Solomon Islands. The contribution of
our Defence Force people is helping maintain stable working and living
conditions for thousands of people. You helped build the foundation of
today’s New Zealand Defence Force capability. We thank you for that.
“On a more personal note, I was a young soldier in the Army during
the years immediately following the end of the Vietnam War. My first
platoon commander was a Vietnam veteran: then WO2 Baldy Merito. In
fact, every commander I have had up until my appointment as the CDF
has been a Vietnam veteran. So from a personal perspective I have
every respect for our Vietnam veterans.
“Many veterans I have spoken to consider that they were inadequately
equipped for the task they were given in Vietnam. Your record shows
you were at least as good as the best troops New Zealand has ever
deployed. You also made good advantage of New Zealand’s earlier
experience in the jungles of Malaya and Borneo.
“But while our military doctrine and training were proper, some of
our kit was not. In spite of this, and in keeping with tradition and with
true Kiwi ingenuity, you exploited the military supermarkets of our
Allies in-country!
“At home, the protest and public debate that arose as a result of the
unprecedented scale of media coverage of the war and a general belief
that our involvement in the Vietnam War was wrong, helped fuel the
anti-war sentiment and mass street protests. There were no homecoming parades; you were told not to wear your uniform in public; and
compared to other returning veterans there was inadequate support for
rehabilitation.
“In sharp contrast to other veterans of earlier conflicts, our returning
Vietnam veterans in effect became casualties in our own country.
Perhaps most painfully of all, some sections of the New Zealand public
made it clear that they did not approve of those who had served in
Vietnam. But the decision to be involved in the war in Vietnam was not
made by those who fought there, but by the Government of the day.
“You had volunteered to serve in the New Zealand Armed Forces and
you went to do your duty to the best of your abilities when and where
required. You served alongside Australian troops in the best of ANZAC
traditions in an even more integrated way than other ANZACs before
you. This has forged a very special ANZAC bond between New Zealand
and Australian Vietnam veterans. You also developed a similar rapport
with those whom you served from the United States.
“The Memorandum of Understanding signed with Vietnam veterans
in 2006 goes some way towards addressing the wrongs of the past and
provides a solid foundation for putting things right.
“The Crown’s public statement in Parliament apologising for the
harm done to Vietnam veterans and thanking you for your immense
contribution to New Zealand is another tangible piece of the
reconciliation process. The Memorandum of Understanding package,
although I acknowledge too late for some, will serve the current and
following generations of the Vietnam veteran community. It will also
serve other New Zealand veterans both current and future.
“I would like to make special mention of the tenacious few Vietnam
veterans who at various stages over decades have kept the issues
alive. You must be applauded for your determination and perseverance
against the odds to get the wrongs of the past put right. Your efforts
culminated in a Parliamentary Select Committee which confirmed what
you had been saying for so long – that New Zealand personnel were
exposed to a toxic environment in Vietnam.
“The NZDF will ensure that no other group of New Zealand veterans is
treated the way you were. And one important way we can honour you,
is to act upon the lessons you have helped us learn. In conclusion, on
behalf of the New Zealand Defence Force, I would simply ask for your
forgiveness for our shortcomings in the past, and I apologise for the
impact these shortcomings have had on you and on your families.
Thank you for your service.
Thank you for your sacrifices.
Thank you for your contribution to New Zealand.
I know it is long overdue, but to our New Zealand Vietnam veterans welcome home, nau mai haere mai pike mai kake mai.”
Photos: LAC Rachael Main
10our people
Courage, Commitment, Comradeship and Integrity
Army health
professionals
celebrate 100
years of service
ROYAL NEW ZEALAND
ARMY MEDICAL CORPS
Semper Agens, Semper Quietus
The Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps is celebrating its
centenary over six days from July 8.
The Linton-based celebrations will include a two day
medical conference, a centennial medical challenge, a poster
competition, cocktail party, centennial parade, and a Century
of Service Ball. They will conclude with a church service in
Palmerston North.
The New Zealand Army Medical Services date back to colonial
times (pre 1900) and although the NZ Medical Corps was
constituted at the outbreak of World War I, and dates from 1908,
a Colonial Medical Corps existed from the time a small body of
volunteer surgeons were attached to the militia and volunteer
formations in 1855.
In 1839 a select committee of the House of Commons in
England recommended that the New Zealand settlers be enrolled
in a militia. So settlers prior to departing England were invited
to sign an agreement that they would consent to be trained in a
militia on arrival in the colony.
Three militia regiments were formed in Auckland, Taranaki
and Wellington. Surgeons were appointed to these formations
and these men could be rightly taken to be the founders of the
Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps. This force of 1500 was
reinforced by an Imperial Force from England of approximately
9000 men. With the Imperial Force was surgeon Sir James
Mouatt, VC, CB, the Principal Medical Officer. He organised the
colonial Medical Service and in 1861 it consisted of 12 surgeons
and assistant surgeons. Medical supplies were provided from
Imperial sources.
The Imperial Force and Colonial regiments were involved in
the Maori Land wars during the latter half of the 19th century.
Upon the withdrawal in 1867of the Imperial Force back to
England the colonial forces now approximately 17000 remained
under the governance of Sir George Grey. The New Zealand
Medical Service was now in the hands of Dr Grace, an officer of
the Imperial Army who had retired and settled in Wellington. The
service was made up of 3 surgeons and 18 assistant surgeons.
Several medical officers had gained distinction in the New
Zealand wars; Temple and Manley were awarded the VC, Dr
J. Gibb, was recommended for the NZ Cross and Assistant
Surgeon Walker (of the Armed Constabulary) gained the NZ
Cross in 1869.
During a period of relative peace the Colonial Forces
waxed and waned in strength and by the middle of 1872
only certain districts had militia still serving. Shortly after
July 1872 they were released from service and the Militia
as an embodied force ceased to exist.
In 1882 a board of officers sat to consider the
re-organisations
of
the
Defence Forces. Amongst the
recommendations made was
the appointment of a volunteer
Surgeon-General
and
the
formation of ‘ambulances’ but
it took a further 5 years before
the appointment was made.
However there was no progress
in the development of the
Medical Services with no
medical equipment available
and medical officers having to
provide at their own expense,
drugs and dressings for camps
and exercises. This state of
affairs continued till 1898.
On 23 June 1898 four field
ambulances were formed and
a volunteer bearer company
attached to each district and
for the first time equipment
was supplied to the surgeons.
A Principal Medical Officer was
appointed to each of the military
districts,
Auckland,
Wellington,
Christchurch and Otago.
The outbreak of the South African War (1900 - 1902) saw a
number of men volunteering for service and New Zealand had
no difficulty in recruiting the 10 contingents of Mounted Rifles,
in all 6505 officers and men were embarked. This included 20
medical officers, all volunteers who served under the umbrella
of the Royal Army Medical Corps (RAMC) in South Africa.
Col Eugene O’Neill, a medical officer at Dunedin Hospital
recalled the day “I have a clear recollection of the strictness
of the medical examination, particular attention being paid to
eliminating all under 5’6” in height and of course all had to be
able to ride. We trained at Newtown Park in Wellington for a
couple of months on foot and horseback and at some stage the
medical officers were each given a medical orderly who we had
to train ourselves.
Before going overseas we were supplied with a medical and
surgical pannier, some stretchers and surgical haversacks.
We had a medical companion chest amongst whose contents
perhaps the most valued was a small black tin with 14 numbered
bottles containing various tablets and pills”.
Pill colocynth co was a large black pill kept in bottle no. 9.
Anecdotal stories tell that when the pills ran out of no. 9 their
loss was met by dispensing three no. 3’s or if need be a no. 5
and a no. 4!
The summary of deaths of NZ troops in this conflict reflected
the general sickness wastage:
Killed in action or died of wounds
68
Accidentally killed
25
Died from disease
139
Total NZ deaths
232
The duties of a medical officer in South Africa largely
conformed to the pattern now familiar to past and current
medical officers, namely sick parades, camp inspections and
the never ending battle to inculcate and supervise the principles
of elementary hygiene and of course the emergency care of sick
and wounded.
New Zealand had no medical formations and relied on
the RAMC units to provide further treatment. Patients were
evacuated to their Field Ambulances by ox-cart transport or by
horse drawn ambulances. The New Zealand Field Ambulances
that were later formed were based on the RAMC however due
to their experiences in South Africa, the New Zealand Medical
Officers ensured the NZ Field Ambulance were better equipped
and more mobile when they embarked for World War I.
The volunteer force doubled its strength during the South
Africa war and was re-organised from companies to battalions.
Upon return to New Zealand, new regulations were formed and
medical officers were transferred to the medical branch and
appointed to the medical list where they were able to parade
regularly during the year and twice yearly for Easter Camp.
In 1905 Colonel Skerman was appointed Surgeon General.
Regulations were amended - the chief amendment being the
formation of a New Zealand Medical Corps. At this time there
were two distinct corps: the medical officers attached to Bearer
Companies and the New Zealand ‘Defence Medical Staff’ on the
‘General List’. Provision was now made for the formation of a
Corps of Officers to be called the ‘New Zealand Medical Corps’.
Commissions were granted and appointments and promotions
made by the Surgeon General. The rank structure for the new
corps was the same as the army officer ranks of Lieutenant
Colonel, Major and Captain except it was pre-fixed with ‘Surgeon’
thus denoting the medical officer profession.
A New Zealand Medical Corps Nursing Reserve was authorised,
affiliated to the Royal Army Nursing Reserve (Britain). The ranks
were: Matron in Chief, matrons, sisters and staff nurses. A Miss
Janet Gillies was appointed as the first Matron in Chief.
Thus the corps was born and the date 7th May 1908 was
officially recognised as the Corps day (birthday).
To register for the RNZAMC Centennial 8-13 July 2008 contact
nicole.peretini@nzdf.mil.nz or go to www.army.mil.nz
Our People11
news11
issue 388 10 June 2008
By Bas Bolyn
From Iraq and Afghanistan to shores closer to home, Warrant Officer Class
Two Crowe has seen action around the world as a medic in the NZ Army
over the last 23 years and he now applies this experience to training at Joint
Services Health School at Burnham Army Camp in Christchurch.
“We are relearning, adapting and updating training in many diverse
aspects of military medicine all the time. Evidence based medical research
from the current conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan shows both similarities
and differences in injury patterns from earlier conflicts such as the Vietnam
War,” says WO2 Crowe.
“Injuries from mines are now more likely to involve vehicle strikes than
‘step on’ incidents, advances in body armour have meant less acute chest
injuries (e.g. the classic gunshot sucking chest wound) but more severe limb
and head injuries which previously wouldn’t have been survivable. Now
the medic deployed into an area of conflict such as Afghanistan is likely to
encounter IED’s (improvised explosive device) of varying size which produce
their own distinct injury patterns and often involve multiple casualties.”
The changing face of conflict, known in the Army as the “3 Block War,”
means that all soldiers increasingly require an element of medical training.
The 3 Block concept describes the situation where a NZDF troop on patrol
may face anything from providing humanitarian assistance on one street, to
peacekeeping on the next, escalating to a combat engagement in the third,
all possibly on the same day.
Acknowledging this need, NZ Army basic training will be enhanced from
13 to 26 weeks in early-2009 to a format which will encompass recruit-wide
medical training.
These skills will also be the foundation for recruits looking to further
specialise as medics like WO2 Crowe.
WO2 Crowe says the changing nature of global security as well as
the weapons being used coupled with
advancements in drugs, science and
medicine means medical training needs to
be equally fluid and constantly developing
to keep pace, albeit based on a foundation
of demonstrated evidence and research.
“We previously thought that training in
applying IVs and introducing morphine was
important in the initial phases of treatment.
Now we know that practicing stopping
haemorrhaging and focusing on getting the
basics right such as keeping the patient
warm and their airways secure are more vital
skills. It sounds simple, but in a high risk/
high stress environment, it takes a lot of
practice to do well.
“In places such as Afghanistan and the
Solomon Islands we are also dealing with
multiple diseases such as malaria and TB on a frequent basis. Preventing
our forces from being infected or reducing the risks is part of the job.
Communicable exotic diseases rare or non-existent in NZ are commonplace
complications when dealing with injured or ill civilians as well. In Timor-Leste
for example, our medics found dealing with acute childbirth emergencies
brought on by febrile illnesses like malaria in remote locations was a regular
situation they were encountering, and this required adaptation of our
training,” WO2 Crowe says.
“Our medics train for the operating environment they will encounter when
they deploy as well as at what they may face in the field in New Zealand,”
WO2 Crowe says,
“These environments often differ to say, St. John Ambulance or other
civilian national agencies, in that we often need to act and operate in a high
threat situation.”
“A lot of what our work is Primary Health Care, General Practice-type
stuff. We’re first on the scene in trauma and sometimes the only available
health care provider for people in remote locations. We have to deal with all
types of conditions: Knee injuries, open wounds, diarrhoea, rashes, the flu,
conditions both mundane and serious. 80-90% of what we do is supporting
the troops as the first point of contact in the field.”
Developing a relationship with a makeup school a few years ago has also
augmented training.
“We identified the need to increase the realism for training and what that
also meant was to make the field training environment more dynamic. One
of the team touched base with a professional industry training provider in
Auckland that also did horror and casualty-type makeup as part of their
courses. This has helped our moulage work develop significantly.”
Tim has personally focused on enhancing his casualty moulage techniques
since 2002 and he is considered among the best in the field.
“The realism helps our students ask: How do I deal with this now? Realistic
trauma training teaches students to get through initial stress responses and
tunnel vision present on arrival at a scene and makes the students think and
act faster and more effectively.”
WO2 Crowe says the training is paying dividends and the feedback from
students is consistent. They appreciate the chance to be challenged in an
environment that is as real as we can make it.
“They want to make a difference in an area where difference can be made.
They recognise they can make a huge impact to people’s lives.”
Message from Chief of Army,
MAJGEN Lou Gardiner
To all ranks of the Royal New Zealand Army Medical
Corps, both past and present, on behalf of the wider New
Zealand Army, I would like to congratulate you on this
occasion the 100th anniversary of the official founding of
your Corps.
Although your official birthday dates from the year
1908, it is worth noting that your Corps was already in
existence and providing support to the New Zealand Army
before then, both at home and overseas.
Since your official establishment in 1908, you have
continued to provide distinguished support to the Army:
at home during peacetime, natural disasters and civil
emergencies; and overseas in such theatres as Egypt,
Gallipoli, France, Flanders, Palestine, Greece, Crete,
North Africa, Italy, the South Pacific, Korea, Malaya,
Vietnam, Iraq, Somalia, Bosnia, Bougainville, East Timor,
Indonesia and Afghanistan. You have provided support
in times of peace and in times of war, in times of peace
support operations, disaster relief and humanitarian aid.
We are indeed fortunate in the New Zealand Army to
have the support of a Medical Corps which is so renowned
for its high standard of professionalism. We are also
fortunate to have the support of a Corps which continues
to bring into service so many prominent New Zealanders
from all walks of medical life. In fact, your Corps is adorned
with the names of many eminent men and women of the
New Zealand medical profession. This has meant much
to us as we have worked to maintain the high level of
combat readiness and morale of the New Zealand Army.
As history has aptly demonstrated, soldiers who are well
supported medically tend to have a greater willingness
to fight and put themselves in harms way - something we
ask our personnel to do on a daily basis.
For your record of distinguished and meritorious
service, we express to you our most heartfelt thanks and
congratulations. In the difficult days that lie ahead I am
confident that the RNZAMC will not be found wanting in
maintaining the proud tradition of service which it has so
worthily established over the past 100 years.
LEFT: Brig McMahon congratulates LCpl David Christmas on
the award of his Operational Service Medal and GSM Timor
Leste. RIGHT: Lt Col Kaihau, WO1 Hucker and Brig McMahon
inspecting the ranks
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We’re first on the
scene in trauma
and sometimes
the only available
health care
provider for
people in remote
locations
As a prelude to the RNZAMC celebrations, Brig Brian
McMahon, the Colonel Commandant RNZAMC was recently
invited to present operational service medals to members
of 2 HSB (NZ). Seven members of the unit were awarded
medals for service in Timor Leste, Solomon Islands and
Afghanistan. “We were absolutely delighted to have Brig
McMahon review the parade and issue medals,” said the
Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Oiroa Kaihau. Sgt
Reuben Blakely, HESC, was also awarded the Brig Le Page
Cup for academic excellence in the Diploma of Military
Medicine.
A Centennial Medic Challenge is to be held during the
Centennial Celebrations at Linton Military Camp on 10
July 2008.
The challenge will commence in the Bahrain Room
of 2nd Health Support Battalion with a quiz and will
conclude at the Linton Camp, Parsons Range with a
quick reaction range shoot.
The challenge is a series of cumulative individual
stands in or around the Linton Camp Confidence
course. It will combine corps knowledge, medical skills,
physical agility and shooting skills. It is open to all
soldiers regular and reserve.
The skills stations and scenarios are assessed and
points weighed based on the individual’s training
level, thus enabling new and experienced soldiers to
participate equably. The tests involve a written test, a
short battle run, and confidence course with medical
scenarios at various stations, including a resuscitation
stand. The challenge will conclude with a range shoot.
Participants will be required to come with a medical
bag (NZCES2165), kitted out to their preference as well
as any ‘extra’ kit they choose to carry. Remembering
this is a test of endurance as well as medical skills.
Camouflage uniform (DPM or dress No. 3) with webbing
to be worn.
Prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd as well as a trophy for
the overall winner is to be presented at the RNZAMC
Centennial Cocktail Party.
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During the past 100 years the Corps has provided
assistance in peace support operations, disaster relief and
humanitarian aid as well as armed conflict. Recently this has
been in areas as diverse as Somalia, Bosnia, Bougainville,
Afghanistan and Timor-Leste. Here a Corps member, Warrant
Officer Class Two Tim Crowe, says the changing dynamic of
conflict is seeing a corresponding shift in medical training in
the New Zealand Defence Force.
Young, skilled
and
excited
Army apprentices
PTE Timothy Corney
showcase their
trades
WN 08-0015-74
serving new zealand loyally and honourably
WN 08-0015-70
12our people
They’re young, relatively new to the Army, and developing as
many skills as they can in their chosen careers. And soon they
may have the chance to not only showcase their skills to the
rest of their industry, but possibly win an all-expenses paid trip
to Canada.
The contestants in the recent Wellington Regional WorldSkills
competition recall what it’s like when the pressure is on…
WN 08-0015-73
PTE Dylan Gulliver
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“The atmosphere in the workshop was busy and hectic from the word go. Most of
us were rushing ( some faster then others) to find wiring faults, dismantle gearboxes,
measuring cylinders and crank journals. I love the feeling of being busy and having a
deadline to work to. But along with that not compromising my work ethic when I am in a
hurry is another big factor. You may think that it is easy to dismantle a gearbox, but there
are a lot of small parts inside that take some caressing to get into position. You also
have to make sure that you place all parts back into the gearbox so it operates. When
working in a workshop environment you also have to make sure you keep all your tools
in one spot and that you use the correct tool for the job. It was hard to keep this up for
hours when you had the judges watching.
You have a good time and learn heaps at this competition, especially how other
apprentices are trained in the industry. I have gained a lot out of this experience and
look forward to going to nationals and hope to travel to Canada for the Worlds.”
PTE Kirsty Lister
PTE Amy Williams
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PTE Timothy Corney, apprentice automotive engineer
“There were eight Army and a group of civilians competing. On the first day of travel
we went to check out the venue. It was pretty relaxed but a little worrying that we didn’t
bring any equipment and had to rely on WelTec to provide it all, and there was a lot.
Three NZDF stewards and two civilian competitors were split into two groups. The
activities were: decant red wine, flower arrangement, table setting, laying and changing
a table cloth, silver service of soup and main course, speciality coffees,crepe suzette on
the guerdon, service of red and white wine, six napkin folds, blind wine identification (3
white, 3 red), spirit identification, two classic cocktails and a non alcoholic cocktail. The
event started at 0800hrs and finished at about 1630hrs with a lunch break in between.
The atmosphere was pretty relaxed. I think the best thing you can do is relax, go with it
and have fun. Yes it is scary wondering what those judges are writing down on that clip
board, that seem to be chewing through paper watching every little thing you do. But
it is all about experience and learning new things. One thing I noticed was the different
terminology that we use compared to WelTec and some different ways of doing things. I
learnt a lot and had an awesome time and yes, winning was great.”
PTE Kirsty Lister, apprentice steward
“We had six stands with an hour allowed per stand. We were partnered off with
a civilian competitor, which gave a bit of a real competition feel to the atmosphere,
wanting to beat the other person with not only speed but with skill, workshop tidiness,
safety, correct tool selection. These were all things the judges were looking for and
marking us on. Our skills were tested in a variety of stands like gearbox dismantling and
rebuild, finding and rectifying electrical faults in a vehicle. We had to check and service
brakes, locate and test sensors on a vehicle, inspect steering and suspension along
with set up the Dunlop wheel alignment machine and inspect and dismantle a engine
block. All the stands tested our knowledge on what we had learned the year before in
C.E.A.T.S course. We all found it very challenging and had to work smartly and in a safe
manner to get the task done in time. It was good to meet new people in the trade and
especially compare my knowledge with that of civilian apprentices and how they were
taught. I found the competition a very good experience and a good way to keep what I
had learnt refreshed and even extend my knowledge that bit more. Overall I found it a
enjoyable weekend and recommend others to give it ago and maybe win their chance at
the nationals and maybe even the big overseas trip!”
PTE Dylan Gulliver, apprentice automotive engineer
“I took part in the regional competition with 5 other NZDF chefs from Linton.
The atmosphere in the kitchen was busy and hectic right from the beginning.
Chefs were rushing from left to right, filleting fish, chopping fresh herbs, whisking
frantically at bowls. I love that feeling of busyness and having to meet a deadline at
the same time as producing a good quality dish which not only tastes good but looks
great as well. You may think that producing the yummiest and best looking dish will
win you instant gold; it won’t. Chef competitions are more then just cooking. It’s how
well you utilise your time, food wastage, keeping your area clean (clean as you go),
keeping yourself clean and right down to keeping your plates at the right temperature.
It’s hard out and you have to keep your mind on all those factors at the same time as
PTE Ryan Beetham
worrying about the judges watching every move you make
for four hours.
You have a good time and learn heaps, especially how civilian chefs work and
are trained. You gain a lot of experience on how competitions work. Hopefully these
experiences will contribute to me winning the nationals and hopefully going to Canada.
Fingers crossed! “
PTE Amy Williams, apprentice chef
“I competed with five other Army vehicle mechanics. The competition was split
into six individual stands. Each stand had a five minute brief, an hour to get the task
complete and ten minutes to pack up and refurbish the task. During the morning I
completed my first three tasks - engine management, brakes and electrical. With engine
management up first it was a steep leaning curve being handed a task and not really
knowing what needed to be done. Once I worked out what the task required I got stuck
in and learned a lot. Second up was the brakes stand. Armed with the knowledge of
how the competition was to work I tackled the brakes stand and completed it without
missing too much out. The last stand of the morning was electrical. I’m not sure if it was
because I was getting hungry or that I had confused myself but the electrical stand did
not go as well as it could have. This seemed to be a common theme throughout the day
with the majority of competitors.
After having a wonderful cut lunch I got stuck into my forth stand -gearboxes. This
stand went well as I managed to complete the required tasks within time, without too
many problems. Next up was suspension which would have been one of my better
stands as I didn’t drop too many points and finished well within time. Last up was the
engine reconditioning stand. This stand was one of the hardest stands but also my
favourite to compete in.
At the end of the day I was very pleased with how the competition went. The judges
were all very experienced which made the whole day run very smoothly and also allowed
the competitors to learn valuable information and skills.”
PTE Ryan Beetham, automotive engineer
The NZDF also hopes to be
able to field representatives
for the National Competition
in electrical wiring, plumbing,
carpentry and welding.
If anyone knows of any young
trades people within NZDF who
would like to compete and are
under 22 yrs as at 31 Dec 08
convince them to give it a go and
contact LT Rick Anderson, the
NZDF World Skills Coordinator.
They may win a trip to Canada
to compete in the International
World Skills Competition.
Contact details:
Lt Rick Anderson
NZDF Regional WorldSkills
Coordinator
C/- Trade Training School
TRENTHAM MILITARY CAMP
DTelN 347-7526
OUR PEOPLE13
Cpl Saunders PMC, Pte Goodley , Cpl Teepa DPMC, LCpl Maaka, Kristy Fecser, Spr
Klaasen, Sarah Day, Edward Waho, LCpl Withers, Jaiden Rowan, Chris Carrey-Smith,
Anna Hocyard, Kathryn Harris, Cpl Duncan, Jess Aupouri.
LTCOL Mac Grace was presented with the customary 25 year bayonet by Chief of Army,
MAJGEN Lou Gardiner when he left the Army recently. The mounted bayonet is awarded to
RNZIR officers on completion of 25 years’ service.
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Canteen benefits
from Waiouru
function
The Waiouru Garrison Club recently
presented a cheque for $2701 to CANTEEN,
a charity that supports teenagers living
with cancer.
The money was raised when the Club
hosted an all ranks charity function last
year.
It held a number of lucky wheel raffles
culminating with an auction for items
donated by the Waiouru AGI and Lion
breweries. Organisers say a great night
was had by all who attended.
On Sunday 18th May 2008 the Club
presented the cheque to CANTEEN’s
Chris Carey-Smith, the Member Liaison
Coordinator for the Manawatu. Chris said
CANTEEN was very impressed with the
donation, and he indicated the money
would be put towards helping fund future
activities for the children.
Cpl Saunders, PMC of the Waiouru
Garrison Club said although the event was
hard work to organise, conduct, and host,
it was well worth it. He thanked everyone
who attended the function for their
generosity, and challenged other Messes
and Clubs within Army to undertake
the same sort of activity for charitable
organisations within their regions.
WN 08-0015-77
issue 388 10 June 2008
Malcolm Darby and Dale
By Jane Mortlock
Malcolm Darby had tears in his eyes when he realised the
morning tea being put on was for him. Despite retiring after 40
years working in the boiler house at Burnham Military Camp,
he really was taken aback that they had gone to all the effort!
In 1968 Malcolm began work as a fitter for the Ministry of
Works at Burnham. He spent a lot of his time maintaining the
old Gallipoli boiler house and shovelling coal into the hoppers
of the many satellite boilers around the camp before a new
WN 08-0015-75
Shona wins in admin quest
Shona Dowden
Army General Staff in Wellington now has one
of the country’s top administrators in its ranks.
Shona Dowden was placed second equal
in the recent Association of Administration
Professionals of New Zealand awards for the
Administration Professional of the Year.
An administrator with the Army for the past
five years, Shona won second place after
answering a series of questions, writing a
description of her role, and being interviewed
by a panel of judges, who asked her, among
other things, to describe her career aspirations
and passions.
She says she is “very happy” to have been
placed, and feels it reflects that “I really enjoy
the work I do.”
Shona mainly administers the Army’s
overseas individual training for soldiers and
officers.
What makes a good administrator? “I think
you have to be well organised, get on with
people, and be versatile.”
Major Justin De La Haye accompanies Mrs Laura Bush, wife of President George Bush, during
a visit to the NZ PRT in Bamyan, Afghanistan in June.
MC 08-0186-27
boiler house was built.
Throughout his 40 years Malcolm has
seen many changes at Burnham, including
many companies working alongside the
camp come and go. He has only good
things to say about Fulton Hogan who he
currently works for, and his workmates,
who he will truly miss now that he has
retired.
“It is people like you, Malcolm,
who make this place tick along,” said
Commander 3 LFG Lt Col Phil McKee at
Malcolm’s farewell. “Your knowledge and
expertise will be sorely missed, but we are
grateful for having had you for as long as
we have.”
Malcolm’s colleagues said that they
would miss his dry sense of humour, his ‘Arkwright’ impressions
and his hunting and fishing stories, often ending with advice
on how to keep warm when sleeping in the bush – a good swig
of straight rum before bed.
Malcolm’s wife Dale is looking forward to having her
husband at home more, although she is resigned to the fact
there may now be a whole lot more fishing and hunting trips
with mates and old colleagues from work.
Rear Admiral David Ledson Chief of Navy presented medals to members of HMNZS Philomel
and HMNZS Canterbury. Here SGT Fitzell receives the NZGSM (Timor Leste)
WN 08-0015-58
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Farewell Malcolm
Linton AN correspondent Faye Lougher received her Graduate Diploma in Journalism Studies
from Massey University recently. Faye stiudied for the diploma extramurally.
our people15
EOD Squadron
issue 388 10 June 2008
Courage, Commitment, Comradeship and Integrity
It sounded like it could be one of the best Guy Fawkes
displays in the country – 100 tonnes of fireworks going up
in smoke in the middle of the North Island.
But there were no elements of display in this burn-off.
It was all just part of the job for members of the 1st New
Zealand Explosive Ordnance Disposal Squadron- the
bomb squad.
The fireworks, which were all past their use-by date
and unable to be sold or used, were taken to an isolated
area of Waiouru where they were placed on pallets in a pit,
doused with diesel and set alight.
Military ordnance, which is old or unusable, is
disposed of similarly. Pits are carefully dug in an isolated
area, and the ordnance placed in layers, between which
is positioned the initiating explosives. With operators
standing about 1000 metres away, the pit is blown up
remotely.
Safety is paramount when EOD personnel undertake
any disposal task.
“There is a procedure to follow, and a very methodical
way of completing the task,” says Chief Ammunition
Technical Officer, LTCOL Wayne Boustridge.
The EOD Squadron is relatively new - it celebrated its
first birthday a couple of years ago – although in New
Zealand the Army has traditionally been one of the official
organisations that deals with the disposal of explosives.
The squadron is manned by tri-Service personnel and
is responsible for explosive ordnance disposal, which
includes improvised explosive devices containing a
chemical,biological or radiological, or straight explosive
payload - in other words, bombs. It also disposes of
unserviceable commercial explosives and ammunitions.
Following the events of September 11, 2001, the New
Zealand government recognised the need to be able to
respond to a wide range of potential terrorist attacks,
hence the establishment of the EOD Squadron. The New
Zealand Army has taken the lead in introducing and
developing the new capability.
While the biggest risks for the squadron are associated
with improvised explosive devices, the disposal of military
ordnance must also be undertaken very precisely.
“We are often called to dispose of, for example,
ammunition or a grenade brought back from a war and
discovered in someone’s shed, or on any number of
current or former live firing ranges and New Zealand War
battle sites.Military ordnance is designed to kill, and it
may have become unstable through age. Operators are
trained to recognise the item and effectively and safely
dispose of it,” says LTCOL Wayne Boustridge.
But bomb disposal is much more complex.
An improvised bomb can look like anything, and can
be made in many ways, and you don’t know immediately
what could trigger it. It could be made by kids who have
read about it on the Internet and are into experimenting,
or by someone with much more sinister motives, such as
in the Trades Hall bombing in Wellington in the 1980s.
It often doesn’t matter if a bomb is simple or
sophisticated – both can be effective.
When an incident occurs, such as something suspicious
is left in a public building, other emergency services - the
police, fire brigade and ambulance - are involved. Cordons
must be established and buildings evacuated.
EOD operators are dealing with the unknown, and may
have to work with it remotely, using a robot. Sometimes
they must rely on the description provided by witnesses,
which can be inaccurate.
The training involved in becoming a disposal operator
is extensive.
Operators are taught about bombs, what’s inside
ordnance, and how it works. Safety is a huge issue, so
they are taught how to protect themselves and the public.
Importantly, they are taught to deal with the unknown.
That, according to instructors, is often the hardest part –
ensuring operators are prepared for anything.
Instructors have an array of equipment that can be
used, and they are taught what equipment can be used
in different scenarios. They learn to work methodically
so they don’t miss anything. Some tasks are simple, and
they can be dealt with quickly. Bomb disposal can take up
to five hours to deal with, and, because they have been
designed by someone to kill, disfigure or scare, can be
complicated and very dangerous.
Bomb disposal operators spend much of their time
upskilling, reading research, and familiarising themselves
with overseas trends.
They usually possess certain personal characteristics,
says LTCOL Boustridge. “As well as needing to have
technical skills, they have to have the right temperament.
They have to be confident, and able to cope with stress.
Psychological assessment for suitability is a critical
component of the selection process.”
WN 06-0030-71
By Judith Martin
PHOTOS: LAC Rachael Main
OH 08-0332-08
The Explosive Ordnance
Squadron’s role is to
• Provide support to civilian authorities
(EOD, commercial disposals).
• Provide Military EOD support
- humanitarian work (such as demining), peace stability (remnants of
war), military operations (battlefield
clearance, safety and education).
• Search for, and dispose or render safe,
improvided explosive devices)
• Be the centre of excellence for training,
historical and modern developments.
OH 08-0332-17
The complexities of
bomb disposal
$4 billion 10-year Long Term Development Plan for Defence.
The squadron’s headquarters and training base are in Upper Hutt and
three new operational units will be sited close to the CBDs and air and sea
ports of the main centres – Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. They
will provide much improved response times across the country and greater
overall security for New Zealand.
Mr Goff said the squadron was also necessary to guarantee a level of
protection around New Zealand’s ability to host internationally significant
events such as the Rugby World Cup.
“The EOD Squadron has conducted joint exercises with Police, Fire,
Airport Security and Customs. A fully coordinated response across all of
government is important,” he said.
“The enhanced capability builds on the New Zealand Defence Force’s
expertise and professionalism – for which it has a long history and gained
a well earned reputation, both at home and internationally – in the area of
explosive ordnance disposal. While the potential risk of chemical, biological
or radiological devices creates the most dramatic and frightening scenarios,
in fact the greatest probable risk remains in the area of orthodox explosives,”
Phil Goff said.
WN 06-0030-73
The New Zealand Defence Force’s Explosive Ordnance Disposal Squadron
premises were officially opened at Trentham Camp in May.
The new capability means greater security for New Zealand, and brings
together skilled service personnel with expertise in explosives disposal.
Defence Minister Phil Goff opened the headquarters of the new and
enhanced bomb disposal squadron. “The prospect of a terrorist attack in
New Zealand using chemical, biological or radiological devices is lower than
in many other countries. Yet given the serious consequences of such as
attack, we cannot afford to be complacent,” Mr Goff said.
“That is why the establishment of this new capability for the 1st New
Zealand Explosive Ordnance Disposal Squadron is in New Zealand’s national
interest. This significant financial investment provides a major strengthening
of our ability to respond to these types of threats.
“The new capability is operational now and the squadron will build up
in size over the next 18 months to more than 72 personnel. Old equipment
is being replaced with remote controlled robots, new detection devices
and other electronic tools as well as new decontamination equipment and
clothing.
The new facility is funded by $22 million in capital and ongoing operating
funding approved by the Government in 2005. It is part of this government’s
OH 08-0332-06
New capability means
greater security, and
more expertise
OH 08-0332-04
OH 08-0332-02
14our people
16our people
serving new zealand loyally and honourably
NZ Army joins upskilling
partnership programme
MOU Upskilling Partnership Programme, L-R Stuart Middleton - MIT, CA Maj Gen Lou Gardiner, Chris Blake CEO of DOL sign the
Memorandum of Understanding
The New Zealand Army has joined with government’s
literacy, language and numeracy Upskilling Partnership
Programme to enhance its soldiers’ development and provide
more fulfilling career paths, says Lieutenant Colonel Richard
Taylor, the Commanding Officer of the Army’s Military Studies
Institute.
Lieutenant Colonel Taylor said that many of the Army’s
new recruits reflect the characteristics of the wider workforce,
including having poor literacy and numeracy skills that may
stop them from achieving their full potential.
“For many reasons, such as individual learning issues or
poor experience of formal education, some of our recruits
come to us with poor literacy skills. The upskilling partnership
will help us to identify the literacy skills of all of our soldiers,
and target specific training to address any individual skill
shortages that are identified.
“By committing to this programme, the Army is ensuring that
its junior soldiers are given the key foundation skills that they
will require for personal development and career progression,”
Lieutenant Colonel Taylor said.
Under the Upskilling Partnership Programme, the New
Zealand Army will use Skills Check, a testing tool adapted by
the Ministry of Education for use by New Zealand employers,
to conduct diagnostic testing of all new recruits and junior
soldiers.
The results of these tests will be used by Army Education
Corps personnel to develop remedial programmes where
required, to ensure that every soldier is able to meet the
range of literacy challenges he or she will encounter. These
programmes may include formal instruction, one-on-one
tuition, and working in small groups.
These foundation skills will be built upon and developed
through more advanced programmes that will prepare soldiers
for progression into higher ranks and more challenging roles.
The Upskilling Partnership Programme is a multi agency
initiative led by the Department of Labour to assist and
encourage employers to create training programmes aimed at
improving the literacy, language and numeracy skills of people
in the workforce.
Manukau Institute of Technology is the tertiary education
partner in this programme. “As a specialist in applied and
vocational training, MIT welcomes the opportunity to deliver
this programme in the context of Army training and life,” said
Dr Stuart Middleton, Director External Relations at MIT.
“Literacy is an area where training is much more effective
when that training takes place within real life scenarios and
where real examples give a clear and sharp purpose to that
training. This fits well within the culture of education and
training in the New Zealand Army.”
Manukau Institute of Technology also provide language
training to soldiers prior to their deployment throughout the
world.
Literacy training commences at MSI
By PTE Jerry Crocombe, MSI Burnham
its soldiers’ literacy and numeracy skills, and expressed his
support for the project. “The training you are about to undertake,
During April and May 2008, members of the Royal New
Zealand Army Education Corps undertook training in developing and the additional skills you gain, will be of enormous benefit
to our soldiers now and in the future,” he said. “It will ensure
literacy frameworks. The training was provided by the Manukau
that all our soldiers have the foundations skills and confidence
Institute of Technology (MIT) School of Foundation Studies,
they require as they progress through their military training.
and was based on the unit standard “Develop Adult learners’
This will help them with their Army careers, and also when they
Literacy and Numeracy Skills Within a Training or Education
Programme.” This unit standard is part of the National leave the organisation.”
The newly-appointed Colonel Commandant RNZAEC, LTCOL
Certificate in Adult Literacy Education.
(Rtd) S.J. Fraser also paid a visit on the second day of the
The course aims to provide students with an understanding
of wider literacy issues, and how they impact on individuals, course.
the workplace and the community. It teaches how
to assess students’ literacy needs, how to help
those with difficulties in a particular area, and
how to develop literacy frameworks for the wider
workplace.
The training was run by MIT tutor Tina Rose.
It included group discussions, online internet
research, and individual study. The participants all
learned new and interesting material that will be
beneficial in their various roles as Army educators,
with a particular emphasis on working with learners
who may have issues with literacy and numeracy.
The course was well received by all participants,
due to its interactive nature and direct relevance to
their roles as Educators. It also provided a valuable
opportunity for networking within the Corp.
The Chief of the Army, MAJGEN Lou Gardiner,
formally opened the first training session on 8 April. LCPL Shalamar Solomon, of MSI, works with tutor Tina Rose on ways to improve
He stressed the importance to Army of upskilling soldiers' literacy and mumeracy skills.
Stepping up: the Army
literacy framework
Tutor Tina Rose, from Manukau Institute of Technology (left) with LT Sarah Starkey, and
PTE Jerry Crocombe.
By LTCOL Richard Taylor
The key literacy skills of reading, writing, numeracy and critical thinking are the
tools that underpin all other competencies. It is estimated, however, that 1.2 million
New Zealand adults, including soldiers, do not have sufficient literacy skills to fulfil
all their living and working requirements.
During 2007, MSI began investigating the issue of literacy in the Army, with the
objective of developing a framework to support soldiers through their careers. It
is doing this in partnership with the Upskilling Office of the Department of Labour,
and with training support from the Manukau Institute of Technology.
As the first stage in this process, during November 2007 MSI personnel evaluated
the literacy and numeracy skills of over 100 recruits at the Army Depot. This was
done using Skills Check, a computer-based literacy screening tool developed in the
United Kingdom and adapted for New Zealand conditions. Skills Check assesses
students within three grades: 1 (basic) to 3 (adequate for most working and social
needs). It takes students approximately 15 minutes to complete the test.
In future, all new recruits at The Army Depot will undertake Skills Check during
their training. Those who are identified as having some weaknesses will undergo
more detailed diagnostic testing when they arrive in their new units. The diagnostic
testing, and resulting remedial action, will be provided by regional MSI Detachments.
This will involve a mix of one-on-one teaching, working in small groups, and short
courses, subject to their parent units’ unit training and other work commitments.
MSI will separately test all current corporals and below, as opportunities permit.
The Chief of Army, MAJGEN Lou Gardiner, stated his objectives for the literacy
project during his speech to mark the formal signing of the Memorandum of
Understanding between Army and the Department of Labour.
“The literacy strategy has two major goals. This first of these is to ensure that
all corporals are at a minimum of Level Two,” he said. “The second strategic goal
is to provide for the ongoing development of our soldiers’ literacy standards, to
ensure that they are able to meet the challenges of the more complex education
and training programmes they will have to complete as they work through their
careers.
“Of course, this involves much more than simply “sending soldiers back to
school”. Rather, it will mean a holistic approach to literacy development, which
applies best practice in adult teaching and learning methodology throughout the
Army education and training system. It will also involve a greater emphasis on
workplace training,” he concluded.
Literacy Q & A.
Q. What exactly is literacy? Isn’t it just about reading and writing?
A. No. It involves the range of skills an individual needs to function effectively
in the workplace and in their day-to-day life. These include reading and writing,
speaking and listening, numeracy, and critical thinking. They are usually used
together, such as filling out a bank form or making a decision about which car to
buy.
Q. So why should the Army be concerned about it?
A. At the individual level, improving soldiers’ literacy skills will help them have
more productive and fulfilling careers, by ensuring they have the skills and learning
confidence they will require for their work and ongoing training. At a wider level,
it will support the development of other capabilities, such as leadership; and
may also assist retention by enabling better rank progression and opening up
opportunities for trade changes.
Q. How might literacy impact on other training?
A. Training will be most effective if it is delivered at the level that is appropriate
for the learner group. As a recent example, during 2007 it was noted that many
recruits and junior soldiers had problems with the terminal test for the Law Of
Armed Conflict (LOAC): Level One. MSI and LOAC instructors reviewed the teaching
material, and amended it to reflect the literacy levels of the target group. Although
the questions and scenarios are the same, minor changes in the language used
has made it easier for students to understand the questions. The module now has
a 100% pass rate.
our people17
issue 388 10 June 2008
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LTDG says
thank you to
local community
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The Commander’s Cocktail Party was held at Waiouru Camp in May. It is an annual event held for local
landowners , business owners, Government departments and Local Body Representatives, to show LTDG’s
appreciation for their valued support throughout the year. It also provides an opportunity to maintain
relationships and establish closer communications. Photos: Kat Oliver
CLOCKWISE FROM TOP RIGHT:LTDG Commander COL Roger McElwain
welcomes visitors to the camp: CA, MAJGEN Lou Gardiner, Gayna Setters
and Betty Mulvay; Maj Blandina Diamond, Capt Banuk, Maryrose Ragagalo,
Lt Col Kerry Ragagalo MBE; Maryann Roberts, Sgt Te Rangi Maniapoto, WO1
Tama Hiroti; Flora Rose, WO2 Dean Kimber, Franco Rose; Friends from their
primary school years, LCC Brigadier Dave Gawn and Mrs Anne McElwain;
WO1 Ian MacKenzie, Lachlan Harding, Maj Terry O’Neil; Capt Jane Derbyshire
and Sandra Cattermole; David Lumley, Vanessa Lumley, WO1 Pat Cooney
(RSM), 2Lt Dean Mayhew, Sandra Cattermole; and WO2 Dave Chamber,
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DCA, Brig Phil Gibbons, Stevie Vine, Lachlan Harding.
18survival drills
Courage, Commitment, Comradeship and Integrity
Know your load
Military drivers are required to operate vehicles that carry a variety
of stores and equipment. Knowing exactly what your load is, and in
particular, the weight of the load, is important for a number of reasons.
There are legal requirements with respect to the compatibility of
items i.e. there are certain items which must be segregated or carried
separate to others. Then there are the axle and vehicle weight limits
that must be adhered to. We need to consider load type and weight
when we are considering the distribution of the load on our vehicle,
and the amount of restraint required. Lastly, but importantly, drivers
must have an understanding of load type and weight in order to adjust
their driving technique accordingly.
Loads affect vehicle handling, especially during acceleration,
braking and cornering. The forces placed on a vehicle vary depending
on load weight, distribution and height. Laden vehicles require greater
distances in which to slow down or come to a stop. Likewise, vehicles
with heavy loads require more distance when moving from rest and
accelerating. Drivers therefore must know their load and take this into
account when driving. Read the road ahead to identify potential hazards
and anticipate the worst case happening. Reacting early will lessen the
chance of you having to make sudden stops or movements. Consider
the weight of your vehicle when selecting gaps at intersections and
prior to passing manoeuvres. Obey the mandatory speed limits and
Use the checklist below to assess your
driving performance. Do you:
YesNo
Ensure your vehicle is legal and in good working order?
Maintain two hands on the steering wheel?
Obey the speed limits?
Obey all traffic signs and signals?
Avoid sudden lane changes?
Overtake correctly?
Avoid harsh braking and acceleration?
Use indicators correctly to communicate intentions?
Select sufficient gap when joining or crossing the flow of
traffic?
Read the road ahead and anticipate situations that can
develop?
Regularly check all the mirrors?
Maintain safe following distances?
Adjust your speed to the conditions?
Avoid driving when tired?
Plan alternative transport when you know you will be
drinking alcohol?
Always wear a safety belt when driving and as a passenger?
Take extra care for cyclists and pedestrians?
Avoid using cell phones or being distracted whilst driving?
Show courtesy to other road users e.g. let them into a gap?
Stay calm even if other motorists annoy you?
take note of advisory signs. This is especially important when cornering
and negotiating descents.
Much of our road network now has signage which advises drivers
of the safe speeds to negotiate bends and corners. It is a good rule of
thumb for drivers of heavy vehicles to adopt speeds of 10 kph less than
the posted advisory speed. Remember to complete any gear changing
and braking prior to entering the bend. Steep descents and gradients
require the heavy vehicle driver to adjust their speed at the top of the
hill. This enables the driver to maintain a safe speed throughout the
descent as the vehicle gathers momentum.
The safe driving techniques described above are applicable to all
drivers, and in particular those that operate heavy vehicles. Knowing
your load and the weight of your vehicle allows you to take this into
account when making driving decisions. You need to anticipate and be
prepared for the hazards that you will encounter during your journey in
order to avoid sudden or violent vehicle movement. An easy way to give
yourself more time is to drive at an appropriate speed for the conditions
and the vehicle and its load. Drive to the road and load.
THINK…
DECIDE…
ACT
Every 3kms the average
driver makes 400
observations and forty
decisions.
Are you a
good driver ?
You can be by simply
changing any of the attitudes
or behaviours you ticked
above as ‘No’. When driving
you constantly have to make
decisions based on the
conditions you are faced with.
Along with your knowledge and
skill, attitude plays a big part in
the choices you make- whether
to obey the rules, play it safe or
drive responsibly in any given
situation.
NEWS
SURVIVAL DRILLS 05
issue 388 10 June 2008
news19
KNOW
YOUR LOAD
Load type and weight affects
vehicle handling especially
during braking and cornering.
Know the load you are carrying and consider the load in
your driving decisions.
20our people
One point of contact for veterans’ services
serving new zealand loyally and honourably
Changes are being made to improve services to veterans with Veterans Affairs New Zealand
becoming the single agency responsible for all aspects of War Disablement Pensions.
From 1 July 2008 veterans will gain a single point of contact for all enquires about
entitlements and services – making access to assistance simpler and more efficient.
Cabinet has agreed to a proposal that will see the provision of services to veterans improved and made more
efficient, Veterans' Affairs Minister, Rick Barker has announced.
"Currently the responsibility for War Disablement Pensions is split between Veterans Affairs New Zealand (VANZ)
and the Ministry of Social Development. From 1 July 2008 the policy relating to, and delivery of, War Disablement
Pensions will be transferred to VANZ. This is good news for the veterans community," Mr Barker said.
"This decision makes VANZ the sole agency responsible for the delivery of War Disablement Pensions and
recognises the lifetime responsibility of the Chief of Defence Force to veterans. VANZ will continue to sit within the
New Zealand Defence Force and will lose its semi-autonomous status.
"The men and women who are put in harm's way defending our country rightly occupy a special place in New
Zealand society. This is why this government is committed to ensuring the services delivered to them are of the
highest standard and that our duty of care to them is maintained.
"Two reviews of the current arrangements found that there were inefficiencies in the delivery of War Disablement
Pensions, and whilst staff in both organisations work professionally to give as good a service as possible, the whole
system needed to be re-engineered so that one agency had responsibility for policy and practice and facilitating the
provision of services and support to veterans who are in receipt of War Disablement Pensions.
"The changes will mean that veterans will be able to deal directly with one organisation for all enquires about
entitlements and services. This is a significant change which will improve outcomes and support for our veterans.
Put simply they will have a single 0800 number to contact rather than two. Improved efficiency and clearer lines of
responsibility will also enable improvements to be made in the time taken to process War Disablement Pensions.
"All veterans are different in terms of the level and kind of support they require and providing them with one point
of contact when accessing service is an important step. VANZ will now also be able to broaden its role in brokering
services for veterans and case manage their claims for any state assistance."
Throughout the review of VANZ, veterans' groups such as the Royal New Zealand Returned and Services’ Association
have been fully consulted.
"I would like to thank all the staff involved and the veterans themselves for their patience and understanding while
this process has been going on. Ensuring that we came to the right conclusions and did our best by the veterans'
community has always been the paramount concern. I believe we now have a system to put in place that will make
access to assistance for veterans simpler and more efficient," Mr Barker said.
Veterans with questions or concerns about the process will be able to contact War Pension Services or their
Veterans' Affairs New Zealand case manager in the usual way.
Questions and Answers:
What is changing?
From 1 July, 2008, responsibility for the administration of War Disablement and Surviving Spouse
pensions will rest with Veterans Affairs New Zealand (VANZ). In addition, VANZ will cease to be a
semi-autonomous body, and become an operational unit of New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF).
Is anything changing to the way the Veterans Pension is administered?
No. The administration of Veterans Pensions is staying with the Ministry of Social Development
and a new number for contacting this group will be announced prior to 1 July 2008. In the meantime,
veterans can still contact the War Pension Services or Veterans' Affairs New Zealand in regards to
these services.
Why have these changes come about?
The change is being driven by the goal of improving the services and support delivered to
veterans. The two agency model of delivering services to veterans was inefficient. This change will
make one agency responsible for the delivery of all services.
How will things improve for veterans?
From 1 July 2008 veterans will gain a single point of contact for all enquires about entitlements
and services – making access to assistance simpler and more efficient. Improved efficiency and
clearer lines of responsibility will also enable improvements to be made in the time taken to process
War Disablement Pensions.
Will anything else be changing?
Yes, when announcing these changes Veterans Affairs Minister Rick Barker signalled that
Veterans Affairs New Zealand will be broadening its role in brokering services for veterans and case
managing their claims for any state assistance.
Have these changes come out of the blue?
No. The Government signalled its intent to improve services for veterans when it ordered a review
into the delivery of War Disablement Pensions. Throughout the review veterans' groups such as the
Royal New Zealand Returned and Services’ Association were fully consulted.
Why is VANZ becoming an operational unit of NZDF?
VANZ currently sits within the New Zealand Defence Force, the change here is that it will lose its
semi-autonomous status. This will improve the lines of accountability and better recognises the
lifetime responsibility of the Chief of Defence Force to veterans.
If veterans have any questions, who can they contact?
Veterans with questions or concerns about the process can contact War Pension Services or their
Veterans' Affairs New Zealand Case Manager in the usual way.
promotions
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Regt No
Newly promoted Sergeant Brent Menzies, an armourer at Trentham
Camp, says the variety of the work he does is the best part of his
job.
An instructor at Trade Training School, he joined the Army eight
years ago. In 2004 he deployed to Iraq attached to the New Zealand
Army engineer group which served there for six months doing
humanitarian and reconstruction work alongside a British Defence
Force engineering unit.
SGT Menzies, 26, says teaching armourers how to, among other
things, inspect and repair weapons is a big change for him, but the
job is a great challenge.
“What I like most is the variety – I can be in the field, in the
workshop, instructing. No day is ever the same.”
our Prople21
WN 08-0081-01
issue 388 10 June 2008
Anzac biscuit idea
wins Operation Kiwi
Op Kiwi competition winners - L-R Andrew Lyall, Weta Workshop’s Richard Taylor, Flynn
Schikker and Brady Inwood at the prizegiving
An Anzac biscuit with healing powers designed by Andrew Lyall, age 11, of
Cambridge has won the New Zealand Defence Force’s Operation KIWI competition.
Andrew’s winning entry was chosen from over 600 entries in Operation KIWI,
a design competition for Year 6 to 10 students which aimed to raise awareness
of Anzac Day and get children thinking about the role of Kiwi Defence personnel
currently serving overseas.
Entrants were asked to design either a memento of New Zealand for NZDF
personnel serving overseas to remind them of home, or a piece of equipment that
would make life easier for NZDF personnel currently serving overseas.
The competition was judged by Weta Workshop Director Richard Taylor who
said, “Judging the competition was extremely difficult as the ideas were incredibly
innovative and so diverse. I had such a wonderful time looking at these fabulous
entries. I chose Andrew’s innovative Anzac biscuit because I knew it would bring
a smile to military personnel overseas and surely this is the best thing that can be
sent from home.”
Andrew’s prize includes a day at the Naval base in Devonport, a large collectible
from Weta Workshop as well a $200 for his school, Cambridge Middle School.
Second prize was awarded to Flynn Schikker, 9, of Ashburton for his design
of a kiwi robot, third prize to Brady Inwood, 13, of Motueka for his design which
incorporates a map of New Zealand into camouflage material..
The diversity of our NZDF world
What’s a diversity strategy, and what does it have to do with
you as an officer, soldier or civilian?
Diversity means all the ways people differ including visible
differences such as gender, age, physical appearance and underlying
differences such as thought styles, religion, and sexual orientation.
Diversity is about valuing and respecting these differences as an
organisational priority and harnessing the strength that diversity brings
to the organisation.
“Valuing diversity is an integral part of competent leadership. It
is about valuing and respecting differences of all individuals in the
NZDF and using these differences to help build a better workforce.
Understanding and valuing diversity will also enhance the NZDF’s
reputation and differentiate the NZDF in deployment situations as
ambassadors of New Zealand,” says NZDF’s Principal HR adviser
(Capability & Equity), Christine Johnson.
Globalisation is creating more demands for deployment in different
cultural, social and regional settings so we need a workforce with
diverse styles, outlooks and approaches in order to build strong
external alliances and to be operationally effective, she says.
The journey towards equity and diversity
•
1977 Integration of women into the Services began. The
focus was on sexual harassment prevention and unacceptable
behaviour being seen as the major obstacles to integration and
was not a holistic approach
•
1998 the Burton Report - Audit of Gender Integration of
women in the NZDF showed many instances of good practice
and initiatives of enduring significance but there were areas
for improvement. All recommendations were accepted and
actioned
•
2000 CDF removed all policy barriers for women in combat
roles
•
2005 the Hanson Burns review of progress in integration of
women in the NZDF. Identified significant and substantial
progress towards gender integration. Benefits of integration
were widespread resulting in a better deal for all personnel
including other minority groups.
A key recommendation from the Hanson Burns review was for the
NZDF to develop an overarching equity strategy to set the direction
and priorities for equity, including gender equity, across the whole
organisation. The strategy needed to have a clear and demonstrable
link to NZDF’s overall strategic goals.
In 2006 representatives from Single Services and Headquarters
contributed in developing the Equity Strategy. Many of these people
were members of the Defence Equity Management Group which
consists of Equity Co-ordinators from Navy, Army, Air, Joint Forces
and HQNZDF as well as the Capability/Equity Cell, DHRPC.
Diversity Strategy
CDF signed off the ‘The New Zealand Defence Force
Diversity Strategy – ‘Valuing Diversity: Leadership in Action’
in July 2007.
The Strategy signals a clear move to a more sophisticated
understanding of equity in the organisation. The emphasis
of this ‘move forward’ is to focus on diversity as a vehicle for
further change.
The objective of the strategy is to optimise performance
through strengthening NZDF’s inclusive culture. It recognises
that the strength of our culture is partly derived from the
differences that each individual brings to the organisational team.
The diversity strategy for the NZDF is defined overall as:
The further embedding and normalising of diversity throughout the
daily business of the NZDF at all levels for both military and civilian staff
subordinated only by operational requirements.
A strengthening of the link between leadership and its influence
on diversity values. NZDF requires competent leadership at all levels
that embodies different perspectives and approaches that draw upon
different backgrounds and truly values a variety of opinion and insight.
The move to the next level is evolutionary rather than revolutionary,
says Christine. “The NZDF needs to build on and consolidate the
sound progress in equity already made and focus on appreciating and
integrating difference into the fabric of the NZDF.”
This will be done by implementing initiatives under the following four
goals:
Goal One: Leadership Committed to Valuing Diversity
Inclusiveness is an integral part of competent leadership. NZDF
leaders need to be accountable and have an important role to drive
diversity behaviour and model diversity principles
Goal Two: Positioning the NZDF for a Stronger Future
In a tight labour market, the NZDF must ensure that it is tapping into
all of the potential recruitment markets
Goal Three: An Inclusive and Safe Working Environment
The goal is about maintaining and further developing what we have
already, our education programmes, and our Anti-harassment Network
Goal Four: Effective Monitoring of Diversity Initiatives
Valuing diversity is an integral part
of competent leadership. It is about
valuing and respecting differences
of all individuals in the NZDF
Strategy Implementation - What has been done already?
A Communication Strategy has included briefings to Service
Leadership Forums in late 2007, briefings to the Personnel Branch
Forum, the Air Women’s Leaders Forum, Warrant Officers Forums, and
dissemination of hardcopies to Service Equity Co-ordinators for wider
distribution within each Service.
The Employment and Management of Pregnant Women in the NZDF
DFO 17/2007 has been signed off together with guidelines on pregnancy
management and equity modules have been developed for Service
promotion training and for civilians.
A huge achievement was the selection of the NZDF as the Public
Sector winner of the EEO Trust Work & Life Diversity Award 2007 which
featured the Diversity Strategy. This special award was to mark the 10th
anniversary of the awards.
A link to the Diversity Strategy on the intranet is: http://dcsbhost2/pers/Equity/equity-divers-strat.htm
22oUR pEOPLE
Courage, Commitment, Comradeship and Integrity
WN 08-0015-90
City of Christchurch Cadet Unit
Supports 28th Maori Battalion
(NZ) Association
Being a member of the
RNZMP is not your
average nine-to-five
job. It takes a special
type of person to do
the work we do
WN 08-0015-90
The Nga hau e Wha National Marae welcoming party, preparing for the Powhiri, and the Catafalque Guard preparing to march on.
The cadets forming the Catafalque Guard are, from left to right; CDT Turner, CDT Dowdell, SGT Stone and Guard Commander Sgt
Stevens.
The parade marches on, with veterans being supported by NZ Army personnel and cadets from City of Christchurch Cadet Unit.
By MAJ Wayne Henderson, NZCF
WN 08-0015-92
The City of Christchurch cadet unit turned out in support of the 28th Maori Battalion (NZ) Association (Otautahi Branch) recently
at a service which begun with a march on to the Nga hau e Wha National Marae in Pages Road, Christchurch. The service is
conducted on each Sunday before Anzac Day, to commemorate the Battalion assembling before departing for World War 2.
The service included former servicemen, serving NZ Army personal, cadets, whanau and friends.
There were four cadets from City of Christchurch Cadet Unit supporting the service as the catafalque guard, parading with 1942
Enfield pt.303 Drill Purpose rifles, in keeping with the occasion.
Two 28 Battalion members, Privates Henry Norton and Eric Henry, also participated in the service, as did Italy Star Association
members Bob Le Vaillant, Tom Sherlock, Frank Harvey, Peter Scott and Jack Cummins.
Cezarne Rodgers, the Cadet Unit Commander of Ashburton
Cadet Unit, has been promoted to Major, the most senior rank
in NZ Cadet Forces (NZCF). Major Rodgers has been a member
of NZCF for 20 years and is thought to be the first female in NZ
Cadet Corps to start out as a cadet at the bottom level, progress
through every rank and reach the top. A Unit spokesman said she
had also made a significant contribution to NZCF, at local, regional
and national levels, having staffed numerous training courses,
including officer training, cadet training and outdoor leadership
training. “Major Rodgers is a very experienced and effective
officer and has wholeheartedly earned her promotion to Major.”
Her new rank was affixed at a recent Ashburton Cadet Unit parade
by NZCF Area Coordinator (Southern), W/O Buzz Harvey and Major
Rodgers’ mother, Mrs Judy Rodgers.
Do you want
interesting experiences?
to work unsupervised?
to make a difference?
to make decisions?
Make a change for the better - Join the
ROYAL NEW ZEALAND MILITARY POLICE
For recruiting information call:
0800 50 11 22
or your local MP Unit
issue 388 10 June 2008
1
3
2
#084
BY MIKE DUNCAN
BY MIKE DUNCAN
6
5
4
h
Aquarius
Gemini
It is time for a change of pace.
Perhaps you could move from
idle into first gear. Actually, even
reverse would denote at least
some kind of activity.
It’s probably meant to make that
sound. Put some CRC on it and
see what happens.
Pisces
Nope. Nothing. Blank. Not a bad
blank, just a clueless blank.
A life-changing experience is
heading your way. Fast. I advise
hiding behind a big rock till you
are able to ascertain whether it
is one of those good life changing
experiences, or the kind you only
really want to see on the news.
Leo
Sagittarius
Trust your own judgement. It’s only
ever failed you 30 or 40 times in
the past.
A big project you have always
wanted to be involved with may
be coming together sooner than
you think. It’s time to put on your
Commitment Trousers. Or skirt.
Whichever you feel comfier in.
Jan 21 to Feb 19
9
8
7
12
11
10
Feb 20 to Mar 20
16
19
18
17
20
When your superiors don’t seem
able to grasp the gravity of a dodgy
situation, feel free to hit them with
the inflatable softball bat you
have hidden behind your back. It
could well shock them into reality,
and it will impress them that you
have been able to carry around
an inflatable softball bat without
anyone noticing.
15
14
13
22
21
Aries
Mar 21 to April 20
23
ACROSS:
1 All units assigned to a base
for defence and operation of
facilities (8,5)
7 One of the martial arts
8 Restrain
10 Raps
11 Insurgents
13 Party formed by Adolf Hitler
14 Salary (abbr)
15 Country at odds with the
West over its pursuit of
nuclear capability
16 Standard-sized cartridge with
an extra powerful charge
18 Deprive of something
20 Waste drain
21 Wake-up call
23 Promulgated command remaining in force till amended
or cancelled (8,5)
DOWN:
2 Position one’s nation alongside another nation
3 Brush-off
4 Satellite (abbr)
5 Taking no side
6 Course
9 Depression in land surface
12 Officer below Major General
13 Desensitises
14 Japanese warrior caste
17 Rays shorter than X-rays
19 Worth
22 Vegetable
W
PREVIOUS PUZZLE
E
H
I M
R
L O
Y
B I
I
R
D
S
I
A
C
N
A
P
O
P
L
L
O
O
D
T
E
C
K
D
E
L
T
A
I
A
G
I
N
G
N
E
P
I
E
I
N
S
P
E
T
O
C
T
Y
U
F
M
A
A
G
S
C
I M P
E
S
M U S
S
S
S
R
V
E
I
L
T
E
I
O
E
C
L
E
T
I N
M
I E
A
I
E
L
S
T
D
E
S
T
R
U
C
T
I
Well, it did say to check it out on a
bit of skin that you wouldn’t be too
embarrassed about if it turned as
purple as a baboon’s bum. It was
in rather small print at the bottom
of the tissue piece of paper that
came with it and you used to clean
your ears with. Still, it does look
kind of funny. To everyone else
Cancer
June 22 to July 23
Virgo
Aug 24 to Sept 23
Stick close to the people you
love and trust. No, not that close.
That’s better.
Libra
Sept 24 to Oct 23
Capricorn
Dec 21 to Jan 20
A change is as good as a holiday.
So give your jubblies a trip to the
Riviera with a new set of undies.
Be prepared to accept the
consequences of your actions.
Or at least maybe tone down the
whining sound you make when
the Finger of Consequence starts
pointing your way when it all goes
horribly wrong.
April 21 to May 21
Your passionate nature could
put you in an awkward position.
Especially if you get your foot
caught in the kitchen drawer. And
anyway, not where there’s food
around. Yuck.
O
N
Oct 24 to Nov 22
Nov 23 to Dec 20
July 24 to Aug 23
Taurus
h
Scorpio
May 22 to June 21
h
CROSSWORD
CROSSWORD
entertainment23
seeing stars
h
BOOK REVIEWS
h
h
h
Waikato Trooper: History of the Waikato Mounted Rifles
By Richard Stowers
Reviewed by LTCOL Terry Kinloch
Hamilton graphic designer and historian Richard Stowers has
published a number of books covering aspects of New Zealand’s
military history, including “Bloody Gallipoli: the New Zealanders’
Story” in 2005. This year he has added “Waikato Trooper: History of
the Waikato Mounted Rifles” to the list. In “Waikato Trooper”, Stowers
relates the military history of the mounted troops hailing from New
Zealand’s Waikato region, from their service as volunteer cavalry in
the New Zealand Wars of the 1860s and 1870s, as mounted riflemen
in the South African War and the First World War, as armoured vehicle
crewmen (amongst other roles) in the Second World War, up to their
present-day service as members of the Territorial Force’s Waikato
Mounted Rifles Squadron.
The sections of the book from the Second World War to the present
day include a number of interviews with veterans and serving members
of Waikato mounted units, and these are excellent. Also included
are a number of profiles of men who served in earlier conflicts. One
such profile is of Trooper Alf ‘Cocky’ Swayne. Cocky enlisted in the
1st NZEF in 1914, and went to Gallipoli in May of the following year.
He was wounded at Chunuk Bair in August 1915, and was evacuated
home to New Zealand to recover. He rejoined the NZEF as soon as he
was fit, serving on the Western Front with the 1st Battalion, Canterbury
Infantry Regiment. He was wounded for the second time at Messines
in June 1917, and evacuated to England. He returned once again to the
Western Front, this time with a commission, only
to be wounded again in March 1918. After another
period of convalescence in England, Cocky went
back to the front, only to receive a fourth wound
in August 1918. Enough was enough, and he was
declared unfit for further service and repatriated.
Cocky Swayne was discharged from the NZEF
in June 1919, but that was not the end of his
military service. He served as a Temporary
Captain in the Cambridge Home Guard during
the Second World War. Cocky continued to
serve his comrades in subsequent decades,
marshalling the Cambridge veterans at
ANZAC Day commemorations until shortly
before his death in 1975. Cocky Swayne’s inspirational story is
one of many presented in this book.
The book is large-format, and this shows off the excellent
photographs admirably. Along with the interviews and profiles, I think
the photographs (many of which have not been published before)
are the highlight of this book. They are, by and large, of high quality.
The book as a whole is well-produced, with clear text and excellent
photographic reproduction. As he did in ‘Bloody Gallipoli”, Stowers
lists the names and regimental details (and, sometimes, photographs)
of WMR men who served and died in the various
campaigns and conflicts on the relevant pages of
the text.
On the title page of “Waikato Trooper” is a
photograph of a hat badge that was worn by Trooper
Charles Rope at the Battle of Rafa in January 1917. A
bullet hit Rope in the head after passing through the
badge. He died soon afterwards, and the damaged
badge was sent home to his family. The photograph
of the broken badge is a poignant reminder of the
potential cost of military service by New Zealand’s
citizen soldiers. Between 1860 and 2008, the mounted
soldiers of the Waikato have played a full part in New
Zealand’s military effort, and this book is a magnificent
tribute to those men and women. I unreservedly
recommend this excellent book to the soldiers of the New Zealand
Army, and to the wider New Zealand audience.
Copies of the book may be purchased directly from Richard Stowers,
by writing to him at 62b Matangi Road, R.D.4., Hamilton 3284, or by
emailing him at rstowers@xtra.co.nz For a large-format book of this
quality, it is very well priced at $40 (plus $8 for postage and handling).
Richard Stowers also maintains a website that will be of interest, at
www.kiwisoldier.com.
24SPORT
serving new zealand loyally and honourably
WN 08-0015-19
WN 08-0015-20
Who’s fastest at Linton?
OVERALL RESULTS
1st = 2SIGS & 2WKSPS 3rd = SME, 10TPT & 2HSB
6th = 5MOV, LAC & HQ2LFG
9th = OCS & HQBTY
11th 2FD SQN
12th 25ESS
13th LOG COY, 1RNZIR
80 pts
70 pts
60 pts
50 pts
40 pts
30 pts
20 pts
OPEN MEN Principal Nursing Officer Major Lee Turner finishes
his lap
2 LFG Commander Col Keating, at left, and the CO 2HSB(NZ) Lt Col Kaihau being handed
the baton from Maj Brooks OC 2HST
By Faye Lougher
Competitors in the Command Trophy Sports Inter Sub Unit 10 x
1 Mile Relay at Linton on April 30 had an added incentive to post
good times, with heavy rain featuring in the forecast that day.
Event organiser Corporal Lisa Harrison said as soon as the relay
ended and everyone was preparing to leave it started pouring with
rain.
The 10 x 1 Mile Relay is a traditional military event which placed
teams in a head-to-head competition to find the fastest platoon
in camp. Each team consists of a maximum of 10 runners from
the same unit, preferably from the same platoon. To promote
maximum participation, in addition to the open men’s grade
there was a mixed grade (females and males over 40 years with
males under 40 making up the numbers) and a 350 open grade
(either single gender or mixed, with the 10 runners having a total
combined age of 350 years or more).
Points towards the Command Trophy were awarded equally
in all grades, but although sub units could enter more than one
grade, they could only collect Command Trophy points in one
grade.
Cpl Harrison said this ensured there was a bit of strategy
involved rather than just being the fastest team.
“The units could have teams entered in the open men’s and
350 open grades and come first in the 350, but if they’d said they
wanted points from the open men’s grade counted, they would
get no points for that win.”
Three hours was allowed for the event but the first competitors
took less than 55 minutes to complete the course. Even the team
that came last was only 12 minutes behind them.
“People had been training up for it and they were running a
mile in six minutes so we expected them to finish in an hour. It
was very competitive. 2 Workshop Company was leading at one
point then 5 Movements overtook them and then SME was in the
lead for a while.”
Cpl Harrison said more than 200 competitors took part and a
further 100 people supported them along the route.
“It was very popular, we had a quite a few teams entered. Four
had to pull out because of the school holidays or because people
were on block leave but we still had a good turn out,” she said.
“Once people got started they really enjoyed themselves.”
Team Name
Unit
Time
Place
Pts
Mighty Workshop Team 1
2Wksp Coy
0:54:13
1
80
One
SME
0:54:40
2
70
Mighty Fighting Five
5Mov
0:55:07
3
60
Run Kippie Run
OCS
0:56:53
4
50
Trifector
2Fd Sqn
0:57:15
5
40
25 ESS
25ESS
0:57:22
6
30
Hornets
Log Coy 1RNZIR
0:58:40
7
20
Team Super Swift Sigs
2Sigs
0:59:29
8
10
Team Taniwha
21 Sup Coy
0:59:40
9
0
Mighty Workshop Team 2
MIXED TEAMS 2Wksp Coy
0:59:58
10
0
Team Name
Unit
Time
Place
Pts
Team Sig Super Strutters
2Sigs
1:02:00
1
80
Tpt Rockz
10 Tpt Coy
1:05:27
2
70
Barts Bunch
350 TEAMS
LAC
1:06:59
3
60
Team Name
Unit
Time
Place
Pts
Old School Workshops
2Wksp
0:59:31
1
80
Chicken Runners
2HSB
0:59:36
2
70
Tims Tearaways
HQ2LFG
1:01:33
3
60
HQ Bty
16Fd
1:04:10
4
50
Teams with blank boxes in the points were not their units designated team
and therefore are not eligible for the points. 2Wksps played their cards right with
their designated team winning their category, and then another team placed well,
minimising the points available for the teams in that category.
WN 08-0015-93
WN 08-0015-96
WN 08-0015-95
Two days in Waiouru at the end of March might not suit everybody. It was perfect,
however, for the 600 motorcycle riders who attended what has now become the annual
Two Day Trail Ride.
Termed ‘Ride the Wonders of Waiouru’, this two-day event is being hailed by those who
attended as the best trail ride in the North Island and possibly even in New Zealand.
The event organiser, WOI Mike Ross, called the event “A stunning success. This is
only the second year the event has been run, and we now have 600 riders attending the
two-day event.”
With positive comments about the ride, and command approval to run another event,
it is possible the number of riders supporting the event could increase, benefiting the
Waiouru community.
The trail ride, staffed by military and civilian riding enthusiasts, is a fund-raiser for the
Linton Multisports to fund adventure and sporting challenges in which Army personnel
wish to participate.
“We have the potential to assist more soldiers in sporting activities nationally and
internationally, events like the Mt Everest Marathon, the International Six Day Enduro, Iron
Man, Cat Eye 24hr Mountain Bike race, and numerous marathons and cycle events, as the
support for this event grows. The challenge for Linton Multi sports will be to manage the
growth and quality of this event so as to expand interest and support,” says WO Ross.
Thanks need to go to the Commander and Staff of LTDG Waiouru, all Waiouru units
and residents,he says, for making the land available and putting up with the noise of
motorbikes and the dramatic increase in the Waiouru population over the weekend.
“Without the understanding and support of Waiouru, this event would never have been
possible.”
“This event has the potential to raise the profile of the Army and be one key component
of the Army’s recruiting campaign as it attracts riders who are ideal candidates to join
the Army and spread the word. It also attracts owners of successful businesses who
are in a position to encourage their employees to join the Territorial Force,” says David
Greenslade, one of the civilian event helpers.
The consistent comment from riders as they departed on Sunday afternoon was “a
fantastic two days, you Army people have done yourselves proud and we will be back next
year and intend to bring our friends.”
A stunning success indeed. Well done Linton Multi Sports Club and supporters for
raising not only much needed funds, but also the Army profile, and thank you Waiouru for
supporting the event.
WN 08-0015-94
Wondrous Waiouru on Two Wheels
SPORT25
issue 388 10 June 2008
Linton Team “Take on the Lake”
6 Hauraki Battalion Confront
Rotorua Marathon
Also running in the Rotorua Marathon were four
representatives from A Coy, 6 Hauraki Battalion They
included PTE Lee Morgan, PTE Greg West, LCPLTony Roche
and LT John Molloy, who traveled from as far as Auckland,
Opotoki and Taupo to attend the event.
First in was Lt Molloy with a gun time of 3hr 59mins,
followed by PTE Greg West (4hr 34mins), PTE Lee Morgan
(4hr 46mins) and LCPL Tony Roche who finished despite a
knee injury with 5hr 20mins. It was a special moment and
occasion for the final three Hauraki finishers as this was
their first ever marathon. Congratulations and well done
to the boys who have made A Coy, 6 Hauraki Bn proud.
All eyes on the 45th Rotorua Marathon in 2009 where 6
Hauraki will be taking on this challenge again.
By CPL Johnny Pritchard
In January of this year I flew over to Australia to spend a
week with the Cronulla Sharks first grade rugby league team.
The purpose of the trip was to watch how the pro’s went about
their business on a day to day programme and gather as much
information from them as I could. I left early in the morning
and arrived in high sprits although slightly jaded from the early
morning flight. First stop was their training ground and there I
was Circled By Sharks.
The first person I met was their coach, Riki Stewart who just
happens to coach the Australian super team. Sorry to offend
any Kiwi League fans but you have to give them credit for the
way they destroyed us last year in the test at Wellington. Riki
was very cool, held nothing back, and was very pleased to have
WN 08-0015-99
WN 08-0016-03
Circled By Sharks
me there. I spent time watching all their teams train from the
top team to the under 16’s. We had two boys with us who were
trailling for them in the under 16 and 18 grades. I’m happy to
report that both lads were snapped up and have been offered
contracts with the Sharks.
During the time I was there I learnt so much, such as new
drills, great cardio work outs that are challenging but have good
progressions, tactical skills, weight room work outs specific
to each individual and their chosen position, agility training,
a bit of yoga, boxing and wrestling just to round it all off. So
all those lads keen and looking at stepping up for Army Rugby
League Duties in 08 look forward to some good and interesting
training ideas from one of the top NRL clubs in history.
WN 08-0016-02
WN 08-0016-01
WN 08-0015-98
It was the early morning of Saturday May the 3rd. A small group of New Zealand army soldiers
and officers stood round in the soft darkness of dawn, watching the encroaching morning rays
slowly reveal the lake before them.
The mood was eager, for some this day would be the result of a long period of preparation,
for others the result of a challenge set from somewhere within, but as daylight increasingly
highlighted the course they were to follow, the feeling of nervous anticipation increased. The
distance was obvious and striking.
For many this would be their first marathon, and they did not know quite what to expect.
The Rotorua marathon has been held annually for the last forty four years. Its 42 kilometres
spans a beautifully scenic course around Lake Rotorua. Voted one of the country’s top marathons,
Rotorua has become one of New Zealand’s most run long distance races.
For this army team however, it all began early February this year when members of the Second
Health Support Battalion (NZ) began organising a unit group to travel up to Rotorua to compete
in the marathon. The idea was quickly taken up by PTI Cpl Boardman, who, having run several
marathons , extended the offer to a camp-wide event while kindly offering a comprehensive
training programme to anyone interested. Lt Brownie of 2HSB Q-Store, was also crucial to the
event in that he organised the training and race stores, rations, transport and accommodation for
the runners and made the race an army event as much as possible.
From here on the long arduous process of training began. It is often said the hardest part of any
event is the preparation, and this was very much true in this case. Many long hours were spent
alone on the road. Slowly conditioning the body for the demands of a marathon. This was made
even more impressive by the fact that many of the runners had little athletic background and
minimal if any running experience. An example of this is that is of 2HSB medic, Olivia Newman.
Being under the minimal age to run the race, and having no previous running experience, Olivia
applied for discretionary entry into the marathon. Once accepted she began a rigorous training
programme, consisting of frequent runs beginning at 7-15km and extending up to 30km in the
weeks leading up to the race. Olivia finished the race with a very respectable time.
The race itself began at 0900, Saturday morning. After a night of final preparation the team
found themselves bunched together with 1800 other competitors at the start line in central
Rotorua. A cold wind blew through the crowd, making it cool to stand around. The crowd rippled
with the chatter, laughter, and nervous anticipation. Soon the clock overlooking the crowd began
its final 10 second count down; all became fixated, the excitement building with every second.
Then the Lion Foundation cannon fired a single shot and the race began. A giant stream of bodies
poured through the central streets of Rotorua. Twisting this way then that, there was no sense of
distance or time, just the runners to your front and to your sides. The pavements were lined with
cheering spectators, photographers and advertisements.
At about the 6km mark the column began to thin. We were now leaving the outskirts of Rotorua
and entering the gentle rolling hills of the northern lake. It was here that the initial adrenal
excitement left, the spectators where gone, the rest of the team scattered.
This period of relaxed meditative running was the most enjoyable and scenically beautiful
period of the race. As the course rounded the lake and began along its eastern facing, the once
surrounding fields now receded to dense native bush.
The half way point came into view, 1hr 20… a promising time. A reward of electrolyte solution
awaited. It tasted good. Another 5 km through the bush, by this point I could feel my body
beginning to fatigue. Not to worry… Only another 17km left to go.
The bush now gave way to farmland. It was approaching midday and the heat was
disheartening.
At the 30km point the route intersected the main highway. It marked the start of the final 12km
of the race… 12km of undulating, almost dead straight road along the western shore of the lake
to the finish point. Here a large group of spectators waited. I eagerly downed several cups of
water and a banana. My body craved more but I wasn’t exactly the best of mates with my body
at this point so I kept on running. At the 31km mark the cramp hit. Both legs locked up almost
simultaneously, causing my knees to come close to hitting the ground. After a quick stretch I
continued on, but the cramp returned within a hundred meters. There really was no choice but to
run on.
By the time I reached the 40km mark I was distraught that there was another 2km left to go.
Coming all that way, it still seemed like so far to go. Stumbling forward, trying to ignore the pain,
wishing I was finished. Just had to keep on running. And then there it was… Stumbled under the
finishing line and I was done… finished. It was smiling faces all round. Shaking hands with others
that had all ready completed the race, smashing back the water, knocking back a banana… then
somebody handed me a free T-Shirt… The day could not have been any better.
The Rotorua Marathon is a challenging event. Looking at the relief and sense of achievement
on the faces of those runners just completing the race is a clear indication of the challenging and
rewarding aspects of the race. Although it is a difficult distance to run it is very much achievable.
WN 08-0015-97
By Pte Joseph Konlechner
CPL Pritchard (right) with Cronulla Sharks coach Rikki Stewart
26sport
Courage, Commitment, Comradeship and Integrity
The team is now well into it's pre-deployment
training. The average training day consists of early
morning battle PT, followed by several matches –
most of which include “run downs” from one mound
to another, and finishes with weapon cleaning. There
is also considerable discussion regarding the best
position to shoot in, now that the wearing of body armour
is a compulsory requirement for all matches at CENTSAM.
Training will continue until late Jun when the team
deploys to CENTSAM to compete in the early July
competition. Updates on the team’s performance will be
relayed through LCC as they become available.
A big thankyou to all those who have helped make
training possible, including; TAD Q-Store, Transfield
Regional Sizing Store, Transfield Range Control, HQ
LTDG staff, Waiouru WTS facility, LT J Mclean, and WO2 T
Witton.
The team: CAPT D Wildy (Team Captain), WO2 P Mumm
(Master Coach), SGT K McGregor (Admin Assist), CPL
Fitzgerald (Armourer), CAPT Davis, SSGT Hally, SSGT
Muschamp, LCPL Miller, LCPL Folu, LCPL Wade, SPR Velich,
SPR Johnson, PTE Hitch, PTE Lupi and PTE Hows.
LCPL Wade negotiates a two metre wall
LCPLs Miller and Wade on the obstacle course run
WN 08-0016-05
Competing at the Central Skill at Arms Meeting
(CENTSAM) at Bisley in the UK is an excellent way the NZ
Army can test whether it is in fact world class.
Furthermore, if the NZ Army Combat Shooting Team
(NZACST) performs well, mana may be earned. Competing
and doing well would help fulfil both aspirational facets
of the NZ Army Vision – to be a world class Army that has
mana.
Selection for the team began on 28 April and finished
on 2 May. Given current operational tempo and manning
restrictions, turn out for the trial was excellent. During
selection week, weapons were selected, training
provided, and various matches run. The last of which,
a 2.4km run in patrol order followed by a “run down”
match, pushed trialists and tested not only their shooting
ability, but their physical fitness also.
The selected team represents a good cross section
of the NZ Army. Trades represented in the team
include an infantryman, engineers, medics, and an
Intelligence Operator. The Territorial Force is also
represented. Even more encouraging is the fact that
all members of the range of corps are both proficient
shooters and physically fit.
WN 08-0016-06
By Captain Dan Wildy
WN 08-0016-04
Army combat shooting
team (nzacst) prepares
for centsam (uk)
The team practises its CQB standing snap
Photos: Kat Oliver
sport27
issue 388 10 June 2008
The NZ Army Womens rugby side mustered in Linton
Camp on the 18th May 2008, for a four-day preparation,
prior to taking on the British Army Womens side that
was in New Zealand for a centennial tour. The NZ Army
Women's side was drawn from various camps around
the country and included thirteen rookies. The coach,
WO2 JJ.Lloyd and his assistant, WO1 R.McLean worked
hard for three day to put a combination together, and
coupled with a huge amount of enthusiasm from the
team, we were confident of giving the touring British
side a run for their money.
Skippered by Sgt S.Stack and assisted by current
Black Fern, Capt A. Tiplady, the NZ Army team went
into the match wanting to maintain their unbeaten
record against the U.K side, and were determined to
showcase a brand of rugby that would attract other
female members of the NZ Army to join Army rugby.
With good support from the Linton Camp personnel
(plus other camp members), the match kicked off
with both sides fighting hard to register the first
point on the board. The touring U.K side made clear
their intent that they were here to level the score by
immediately launching a barrage of attacks on the
NZ Army try line, only to be denied the opportunity to
score by an equally determined home side. Crunching
defensive tackles were the order of the day, as the
Kiwis and the Brits guarded their line.
The deadlock was finally broken by Capt Tiplady
who calmly slotted a penalty to give the NZ Army side
a 3-0 lead. The British Army team refused to allow
the home side points advantage and replied with a
well-worked try in the corner after the ball travelled
through the entire width of the field with some
scintillating passes. The conversion failed and both
teams went to the break with the British Army side
leading by 5-3.
The second half kicked off with the same vigour
as the home side, encouraged by the now excited
crowd, raided the opposition line. The determined
attack was met by resolute defence. It wasn’t until the
30th minute of the second half when the evergreen
NZ Army hooker, SSgt D.ixie Jones found a rare
opportunity on the defensive line and pounced,
scoring in the far corner. LCpl Mata Oltaches who had
now picked up the kicking duties after Capt Tiplady
was carried off the field, failed to find the mark with
the conversion. Just as they did in the first half, the
British Army Womens team fought back and strung
various phases of play starting from their half working
patiently towards their try line. After the 5th phase the
ball was swung wide by their backline where it found
the hands of their winger who calmly danced her way
through 3 defenders before off-loading to her team
mate who was supporting on the inside. The winning
try was scored just before the stroke of full-time with
the visiting side winning by 10-8. Both teams are
now locked on a one win and one loss each and are
looking forward to a rematch in the near future.
The Management of the NZ Army Womens Rugby
wishes to acknowledge and thank the wider NZ Army
for the support shown towards this match, particularly
the Unit Commanders who released their players and
those soldiers covered for the players whilst they
were away. Special thanks also go to Comd 2 LFG,COL
Tim Keating, WO2 B.Linton, Mr Gordon Forrester, WO1
Shaun Thomas, Cpl N.Wickam and Lt Col O. Kaihau for
their invaluable assistance.
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By Major Save Seruvatu (Manager) and
SSGT Missy Paul (Assistant Manager)
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NZ Army womens rugby clash
with UK counterparts
FROM TOP LEFT: The lineup before the game; Pte Kirsty Lord has possession, and she’s away; A NEw Zealand
tackle; SSGT Dixie Jones runs into the tackle area to help team mates Pte Hekz Te Maipi, LCPL Sekola Niutau and
Cpl Rachel Rouxel.
Kiwi Amiee plays for the Brits
What’s a Kiwi doing playing for the UK team? New Zealand Army officer Captain Aimee Bywater-Lutman
who is posted to 17 Port and Maritime Regiment, Royal Logistics Corps until December 2009, took to the
field with the UK Women’s team.
Aimee, 26, who plays in the hooker position,is the daughter of Colonel (Rtd) Bob Bywater-Lutman, who
now works for the NZDF as Judge Advocate General.
Aimee’s regiment is based in Marchwood, Southampton. She assumes the post of Operations Officer in
a couple of weeks after a six months deployment in the Falkland Islands as the Port Controller of Military
Shipping calling in to Port Stanley.
By CPL Jess Blair
On May 9 personnel from the Australian War Ship HMAS Manoora came to
Burnham Camp to engage in three games of sport: volleyball, netball and soccer.
The ship was berthed in Lyttleton as a part of Exercise Joint Kiwi 08, for which they
deployed to the North Island with QAMR and Bravo Coy. This sports afternoon
was an excellent opportunity to develop international relations in a competitive
environment, and also gave our teams a run in the spirit of healthy trans-Tasman
rivalry.
The teams from the HMAS Manoora arrived at 1300h and were greeted by
3LFG’s Acting Commander Lt Col Phil McKee. Shortly after the respective teams
dispersed to their playing areas eager to get going as the refreshing South Island
weather was not quite what they were used to.
Volleyball started immediately in the gymnasium. There were three games
played, of which Burnham came out on top winning both games. The Burnham
side was scraped together at the last minute as several players failed to show, but
team manager SSgt Geoff Bright was never in any doubt that Burnham Volleyball
would pull through.
There were two games of netball played at the outdoor courts. The cool, wet
weather did little to deter our Burnham teams, coming away with a win in both the
Women’s and Mixed games. Congratulations to SSgt Nicky Ruki and her players
on a winning effort.
The soccer shaped up to be a highly contested match. Teams looked even
on the paddock with the Burnham strikers taking more quality shots at goal.
However; there was one man standing in their way and that man was the HMAS
Manoora goal keeper. He had a few advantages over our guys, one being that he
is also the goal keeper for the Australian Defence Force Soccer Team. A man of
some pedigree, he was bitter sweet to watch and he proved to be the nemesis of
the Burnham team. Some may argue that our own goalie, 2Lt Chris Holter, could
wear that title with a half time score of 1-0 to Burnham and a full time score of
3-2 to the HMAS Manoora. We thank the Aussies for a very competitive game.
Well done to referee and team manager Sgt Rana Stevens for his hard work and
enthusiasm.
Rounding off a top afternoon, the ‘Red Bull Girls’ made an appearance with
their Mini and cans of product which was much appreciated by all participants.
After the sports there was a prize giving followed a function at the Sportsmans
Bar. Thank you to all the referees and to the team managers; SSgt Geoff Bright,
SSgt Nicky Ruki, and Sgt Rana Stevens for organising the sports teams.
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They came, they played, they lost… well,
two out of three anyway
The Manoora goalkeeper clears the ball under pressure
from Major Rob Wilson (back to camera) and Captain
Neville Mosley.
www.army.mil.nz
ISSUE 388
sport
10 June 2008
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a world class army that has mana
LT Elisha May tackles an opponent during the NZ Army/ British Army Womens rugby game at Linton. (See page 31) Photo: SSGT Eddie Paku
Attention All RF, TF & NZDF Employees
North Vs South
The Inaugural
North Island Army vs
South Island Army
Rugby Tournament
- Senior Men
- Academy
- Women
All Interested Players Please Contact:
North Island
South Island
Senior Men
Senior Men
Academy
Women
Academy
W02 Chris Neil
W02 Lyall Mooney
SSGT Dixie Jones
One Chance, One Shot
Mate Vs Mate
Linton Military Camp - 9 July 2008
Regional POC’s
Waiouru
Capt P.C. Milner
367 7350
Linton
WO2 Lyall Mooney
369 7380
Mr Troy Holmes
369 7623
W02 Chris Neil
Women
Sgt Karen Walker
Trentham
WO2 Richie Player
347 7053
Burnham
WO2 Chris Neil
337 7811
TF Pers
Through their respective
RSM's