ARMYNEWS

COURTESY OF ISAF

COURAGE | COMMITMENT | COMRADESHIP | INTEGRITY

www.army.mil.nz

18 AUGUST 2009
ISSUE 401

pg 05

pg 07

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NZARMY NZ PRT personnel gather after raising funds for Telethon 09

WN 09-0101-069
NEWS
18 AUGUST 2009
ISSUE 401
CONTENTS
NEWS
SAS to Afghanistan 03
Maori Battalion website 04
launched
Students train at 05
Waiouru

PEOPLE
Army judge in Toque 06
d’Or
Brigadier Miles’ medal 07
presented

TROOPS SUPPORT TELETHON 09

LRDG veterans 09
honoured
Dili hospital revamp 16
EXERCISES
Nemesis 10 On 8 August, 46 members of the New Zealand Provincial
Frosty Boy 09 11 Reconstruction Team (NZPRT) in Bamyan, Afghanistan
participated in a relay run/walk to raise funds for the 2009

SPORT
Inter-island rugby
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
Website: www.army.mil.nz
Printing: APN Print, Wanganui.
design: DCG, NZDF
Editorial contributions and
letters are welcomed.
They may be sent direct to the Army News
OH 09-0493-002
New Zealand Telethon charity, Kids Can Stand Tall.
Relay organiser Royal New Zealand Air Force Medic
23 Sergeant Simon Blakeway, said: “The idea was to keep
someone running or walking around the perimeter track
(approximately 1km around) from 0600 until 1900. Initially
I struggled to get people interested, but as I wandered
around different units, I got more and more support. Even the
Singaporeans and a couple of Americans we have here at Kiwi
Base got involved.”
Temperatures reached close to 40 degrees in the middle
part of the day of the relay. Despite the heat, the group
achieved its goal.
Competitors kept count of the laps and some of their
achievements are :
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Top: LCPL Luke McGruer, LBDR Te Heuheu, and CPL Devan Robinson before the BIG exercise
completed by SGT Shaun Moore, RNZSigs in Wellington, and, below, leading the military-style workout.
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OH 09-0494-014
and do not need to be forwarded through SGT Simon Blakeway, RNZAF
normal command channels. Submit them to
The Editor, Army News, DCG, HQ NZDF, Private During the relay, the 46-strong team managed to run or
Bag 39994, Wellington, or by email. walk a total of 523kms and to date have raised over $1,000
Deadline instructions: Army News is for the Kids Can Stand Tall Charity.
published on the third Tuesday of each
month, except January. Please have all NZDF personnel throughout New Zealand got behind the
contributions to the editor by the seventh of Telethon 09 charity in a variety of ways, including holding
the month at the latest.
“the BIG exercise’ (a military-style work out) in Civic Square in
Nothing in the Army News should be
taken as overriding any NZDF regulation. Wellington.
Readers should refer to the relevant service Altogether the NZDF raised $10,000 for the charity
publication before acting on any information
given in this newspaper. ISSN 1170-4411
All material is copyright, and permission to
reproduce must be sought from the editor

WARFARE BOOK WINNER FIVE NATIONS WORKING TOGETHER

Mr Ian Bell of Waimana, Bay of Plenty is the lucky
TO OVERCOME SIMULATED THREAT
COURTESY OF ISAF

winner of The War Chronicles, From flintlocks to machine

guns by Joseph Cummins. Army News had one copy New Zealand troops are taking part in a week-long exercise in Malaysia, working alongside FOLLOW
of the book to give away to mark our 400th issue. four of their closest neighbours and partners to overcome a simulated threat. GOVERN
Congratulations Ian—The War Chronicles is on its way to The sixty five-strong contingent of personnel, mainly from 2/1 RNZIR, are in Malaysia for
you. two weeks this month taking part in a Command Post Exercise. Commanding Officer LTCOL
SECUR
Hugh McAslan says that Exercise Suman Warrior 09 involves up to 500 troops from the
Five Power Defence Agreement nations (FPDA), focusing on developing the interoperability
amongst the participating armies.
“Suman Warrior is an annual map based activity that is conducted between the FDPA
nations, that being New Zealand, Australia, Britain, Singapore and Malaysia. It essentially
puts the command and control functions of each nation to the test in a simulated
environment.
“Exercises like this provide significant opportunities for our soldiers to train with
other countries. It tests the planning skills used by infantry, armour, artillery, logistics,
communication, and medical staff, and allows us to test our processes and improve our
skills."
The Five Power Defence Arrangement began in 1971 and is one of the most enduring in
COVER IMAGE: the region.
Rifleman Private Ryan Gilbert
on patrol in Afghanistan. "THE SIXTY FIVE-STRONG CONTINGENT OF PERSONNEL ARE IN MALAYSIA"
Photo: ISAF
 AFGHANISTAN REVIEW DECISIONS ANNOUNCED
About 70 SAS personnel are to be deployed to Afghanistan
for up to 18 months in three rotations.
And the Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) in Bamyan
province will be gradually drawn down over the medium
term, with an increased civilian effort focused on the
province in the areas of agriculture, health and education.
Prime Minister John Key announced these decisions
last week. They stem from a review of New Zealand’s
commitment to maintain security and stability in
Afghanistan.
“New Zealand has a direct and vital interest in supporting
international efforts to eradicate terrorism, and promote
peace and stability. Recent events in Jakarta show that New
Zealanders are not immune,” said Mr Key.
“The main findings of the review include a need for an
improved whole-of-government framework for the next stage
of engagement in Afghanistan. In keeping with long-standing
practice, I will be making no comment on the operational
aspects of the SAS deployment.
“This deployment follows the decisions by the previous
Labour government to deploy the SAS to Afghanistan on
three separate occasions.
“It is proposed that the efforts in Bamyan province be
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CAPTURE OF TALIBAN LEADER
IN BAMYAN PROVINCE
A key Taliban regional leader has been captured south of
Ghandak township in Bamyan Province by the Afghan National
Police (ANP). The operation was supported by members of the
New Zealand Provincial Reconstruction Team (NZPRT).
Following an insurgent attack on a district government official,
the local police and security forces responded and a chase and
small arms engagement ensued.
On being advised of the incident, NZPRT elements deployed
to the area to assist, providing an outer security cordon. They
also called in coalition fighter aircraft for overwatch and stood
by to co-ordinate medical evacuation if needed.
FOLLOWING AN INSURGENT ATTACK ON A DISTRICT
GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL, THE LOCAL POLICE AND
SECURITY FORCES RESPONDED AND A CHASE ENSUED
By the afternoon the ANP had taken a local Taliban leader,
Mullah Borhan, into custody. Borhan is alleged to be behind
numerous insurgent attacks in the region, and there has been a
$US10,000 public reward out for his arrest for several years. He
was captured with weapons and bomb-making equipment in his
possession.
Group Captain Greg Elliott, Commander of the NZPRT, said the
action was a success on many levels.
“It’s a win for the local Bamyan security forces, provincial
Governor Sarabi, the Ministry of the Interior, the wider campaign
against insurgents and the Taliban, and for the Provincial
Operations Co-ordination Centre that was established to provide
election security.”
There were no reported casualties to Afghan national security
forces or NZPRT personnel.
aligned with the new policy of the Obama Administration,
which includes building the capacity of the Afghanistan
central government and provincial governments.
“The re-alignment of the PRT’s work will include helping
build the capacity of the Afghan National Police, to facilitate an
accelerated transfer of the lead security role in Bamyan to the
police and a phased reduction in NZDF personnel over time.
“NEW ZEALAND HAS A DIRECT AND VITAL
INTEREST IN SUPPORTING INTERNATIONAL
EFFORTS TO ERADICATE TERRORISM, AND
PROMOTE PEACE AND STABILITY."
“The realignment will include a greater emphasis on
development assistance and promoting good governance.
“The development assistance will focus on agriculture,
health and education. To this end, it is proposed that a
development adviser be attached to the PRT.
“To support the work, the Government also plans to
appoint a senior diplomatic representative in the country
instead of having diplomatic representation run from
Tehran.”
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LT Chris Shaw meeting with ANP personnel.
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Governor Habiba Sarabi gives a press conference after the
ANP capture of Mullah Borhan. NZPRT SNO Group Captain
Elliott is also pictured.
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Mullah Borhan, captured by the ANP on 2 August 2009.
ARMYNEWS03 ISSUE 401 | 18 AUGUST 2009
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SMARTER–FASTER–BETTER
By Colonel Roger McElwain, Commanding Officer, LTDG
The Defence Transformation Programme (DTP) is based
on “a single organisational approach providing simpler
and better support functions to the three Services and
Operations”. The basic DTP premises are that NZDF-wide
change will provide greater benefit, remove unnecessary
duplication and rationalise processes. In simple terms,
the DTP is about carrying out our support functions
smarter, faster and ultimately better across NZDF and the
three Services. One of the DTP work streams is Education
and Training, and Army, Navy and Air Force training
representatives have worked hard to develop a number
of options that will better deliver education and training
across NZDF and the three Services. The education and
training options in all cases include the development of
an NZDF Training Directorate, and the delivery of common
training by a single training organisation or Service but
maintaining Service delivery of training as appropriate to
environment and function. In Army’s case, land combat
training would certainly be retained within Army. However
some combat support and combat service support
functions could well be delivered by a single Service, an
NZDF training organisation or even a civilian organisation.
CDF and the Service chiefs have clearly indicated which
option is to be developed. From an Army and an LTDG
perspective there is considerable work required to develop
this option. With regard to LTDG it is about developing more
effective learning solutions and systems and delivering more
effective individual training.
The timelines for the development of the selected
option are demanding, and a dedicated project team will
be required. Individual Service area’s of excellence will
be identified and used, as will their expertise in particular
functional areas. We will maximise the benefits across
NZDF of Service- leading initiatives such as Navy’s Learning
Management System, Army’s Leadership Framework and
Air Force’s Training System. At the same time there is also a
need to realise immediate DTP benefits by the NZDF taking
responsibility for all Defence education, or the creation of an
NZDF school providing training across all three Services.
At the same time Army, and more particularly LTDG,
must continue to provide individual training to the Army.
Operational and training requirements will need to be
maintained. In some quarters this training is termed
“business as usual” but this understates the importance of
what Army and LTDG does daily as a formation.
In the year ending 30 Jun 09, LTDG units conducted 555
courses and trained 7258 officers, NCOs and soldiers.
Even today, there are currently over 400 military personnel
undertaking individual training in some form or another in
the formation. This requirement will not go away. Not only
is there a requirement to provide this training but there is
also a need to maintain training excellence and training
standards across the board. DTP Education and Training
will not change this requirement but it will mean that we
may educate and train our people in different locations, at
different training organisations or in a different way. The
operational imperative will remain the same but delivery in
terms of form, content and location may well change.
As Heraclitus, a Greek philosopher, said “nothing endures
but change”. The DTP is a change programme intended to
provide simpler and better support functions across NZDF
and, in this case, better education and training across the
organisation. These are worthwhile objectives and we
should all be looking to improve what we do each day;
in effect, making a difference, no matter how small. We
spend a lot of time talking about change and what we are
going to do, however, the reality is that not enough time is
actually spent on making the changes and ensuring that we
are doing things better. Let’s now get on with it and start
delivering better education and training across the NZDF,
Army and LTDG.
04ARMYNEWS
ISSUE 401 | 18 AUGUST 2009
A website dedicated to the 28th Maori Battalion was
unveiled at Parliament earlier this month. The website
contains audio and video accounts by battalion members, as
well as other information, including historical photographs.
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MILITARY HISTORIAN SEARCHING FOR GALLIPOLI LETTERS
In April 1915, the men of the Australian and New Zealand
Army Corps landed at Gallipoli to engage in a battle that
would shape the culture of both nations for years to come.
Now, military historian Glyn Harper is seeking to recover
the experience of ordinary New Zealand soldiers by editing
the first collection of letters from Gallipoli.
“Seeing the Gallipoli campaign through their eyes as the
soldiers described it in their letters home reveals a great
deal about this campaign. The letters tell us much about key
events, like the landing and the seizure of Chunuk Bair in
August 1915, and the terrible living conditions they had to
endure,” says Professor Harper.
He is a well-published military historian and is the Director
of the Centre for Defence Studies and Professor of War
Studies at Massey University, Palmerston North.
As well as working through letters already in New Zealand
archives, Professor Harper is keen to hear from people who
hold letters from soldiers who served at Gallipoli and that
are currently in family collections.
“This is an opportunity to deepen our understanding of
these crucial events by hearing from the soldiers on the
ground,” he says.
Those who contribute letters chosen to feature in the
book will receive a free copy of the publication and will be
invited to attend its eventual launch. Professor Harper will
“THIS IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO DEEPEN
OUR UNDERSTANDING OF THESE CRUCIAL
EVENTS BY HEARING FROM THE SOLDIERS
ON THE GROUND,”
also provide advice on how these letters should be properly
stored to avoid damage and on appropriate archives in which
to deposit the original copies, should such advice be wanted.
Letters from Gallipoli will be published by Auckland
University Press in April 2011 to coincide with the 95th
anniversary of the Gallipoli landings on Anzac Day.

DAYNYELLE’S Bombadier Andrew Cunningham shares the LAV

DAY AT LINTON
turret with Daynyelle as they tour Linton Camp.

Daynyelle Rogan-Ngata now knows more about the Army than

many other 12-year-olds—she recently spent a day with soldiers
and officers at Linton Camp, learning all she could about how
the Army operates.
It was a special day for Daynyelle and her cousin Sam Mafi,
11. Her day with the Army was first prize in the Anzac poster
competition, Operation Anzac Spirit, held earlier this year.
“I absolutely loved it. There was so much to see and do,”
Daynyelle told her mum Ilane after she arrived home from her
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military experience.
Daynyelle’s poster featured her great grandfather, Corporal
Parone Ngata, who was a corporal in 28 Maori Battalion’s C
Company.
After the war Mr Ngata farmed near Tolaga Bay. "He never
spoke about the war, and he was a very private person,” says
Ilane. “One of my uncles remembers him accidentally meeting
up with one of the men he had fought alongside. When they
recognised each other they laughed and cried and swore at
each other, they were so pleased to meet again after what they
had been through together.”
Daynyelle designed her poster after talking to her mother
about what the war meant to her Koro Matua, (grandfather). “We
talked about all the men in C Company, and how the families
Daynyelle knows from Tolaga Bay had lost so many sons and
brothers. Thinking about what it all meant to her extended
family put the war into perspective for her.”
 ARMYNEWS05 ISSUE 401 | 18 AUGUST 2009

STUDENTS PUT
THROUGH THEIR
PACES AT WAIOURU COURSE

Joshua Westerlund and Teisam Faimasasa of James Cook High School are congratulated by their
instructor Lisa Kennedy for being the first pair to erect their hoochie during a fieldcraft exercise.

Eighty-five secondary school students deployed to Waiouru
Army Camp earlier this month to conduct military based
training.
The students took part in a two week induction course which
was part of a six month Service Academies programme run from
schools throughout New Zealand.
The Waiouru course was part of the Service Academy
programme which will be expanded under the recent
Government Youth Opportunities announcement. This will see
extra funding and programmes for year 12 and 13 students.
"I am finding this course extremely challenging both
physically and mentally,” said Teata Isaia from James Cook High
School Academy in Auckland.
“It has pushed me to my limits to see if I have what it takes to
join the New Zealand Defence Force.”
The six month course targeted young people who think a
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career in the Military, Police, Customs or Fire Services might be
for them. Courses provide students with military values-based
training which promotes commitment, courage, comradeship
and integrity.
"This is the first time we have held Academy training in
Waiouru," said Warrant Officer Class One Robert Tait.
"We usually take Auckland academies to Whangaparaoa
camp or Motutapu Island for their induction course. Waiouru
has proved to be a good training facility with everything in one
place. It's an ideal location."
Training during the week included military drill competitions,
team building exercises, physical training and military
confidence course competitions.
Students who attended the Waiouru course came from four
Auckland colleges (Glenfield, Kelston Boys, Onehunga, James
Cook High School) and Horowhenua College.
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They “marched out” from the Waiouru induction course on
Friday 7 August.
They were selected to join Service academies through their
secondary schools and were assessed on a wide range of
relevant subjects including level one NCEA maths and English.
There are two types of academy – a six-month recruitment
model which targets Year 12 and 13 students in schools who
may want to pursue a career in the military.
The other option, Youth Life Skills, targets 14 – 17 year olds
who are at risk of leaving school and aims to get them back
into mainstream education, tertiary education or appropriate
employment. This is a one year course.
The Youth Opportunities announcement will see additional
funding for two years for unskilled 16 to 24 year olds. This group
makes up about one third of all people on the Unemployment
Benefit.

From left, students gather before the course begins; Army personnel supervise as students
emerge from the mud run; Matiria Pohatu (Glenfield College Academy) on the assault course.
06ARMYNEWS
ISSUE 401 | 18 AUGUST 2009
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Last year’s Toque d’Or winners LCPL Makere Lee and PTE
Kirsty Lister. The third team member was LCPL Steve Hogan.
CHEF PAUL JOBIN CONDUCTS A
‘MASTER-CLASS’
FOR ARMY CHEFS
The Joint Services Catering School (JSCS) hosted acclaimed New
Zealand chef and television presenter Paul Jobin recently,
as he delivered an interactive day of theoretical and practical
culinary tips aimed at enhancing the use of New Zealand beef
and lamb.
Paul is an award winning chef, culinary tutor and ambassador
for New Zealand Beef and Lamb, and is also well known
throughout New Zealand for the 'Taste NZ' recipe segments
he presents on TV, cooking and showcasing the best of home
grown New Zealand produce. His professional culinary talents
and teaching skills were put to good use throughout the day as
he discussed and demonstrated a wide range of preparation
and cooking techniques to the JSCS audience.
In addition to a theory- based multi-media presentation
on dish composition which started the workshop, Paul also
stepped into the JSCS training kitchens to prepare and serve
two main course dishes for the benefit of the students. They
were ‘Pot Roast Spiced Lamb with Feta, Spinach and Pear’, and
‘Sirloin of Beef with Kumara Dumplings; Celeriac Puree and
Coconut Foam’.
Paul’s day got off to a rocky start when his equipment
Paul Tobin works alongside PTE Sade Waikato;
and with JSCS instructor SSGT Manu Ferguson.
WARRANT OFFICER TO JUDGE NESTLÉ TOQUE D’OR
Operations Manager at the Trentham Military Camp, Warrant
Officer Class Two Phillip Russell, will join 17 of the country’s
leading chefs and culinary professionals to judge competitors in
this year’s Nestlé Toque d’Or.
It will be the first time that WO2 Russell will judge at the event
which is the country’s premier student cookery and restaurant
service competition.
Aside from judging the hospitality and culinary creations
of teams drawn from 12 tertiary institutions from around the
country, he and his fellow judges will determine the winner of
the inaugural Innovation Award.
In order to take out this new Award, teams will be marked for
their application of the sponsor’s products in the dishes they
create.
The training establishment that best demonstrates innovation
across their menu or in a particular dish will be presented with
an array of cookery and recipe books.
WO2 Russell said Nestlé Toque d’Or provides an ideal forum
for the country’s best and brightest hospitality students to pit
their skills against each other.
“It’s a high profile event that encourages our up-and-coming
talent to strive to be the very best that they can be within the
hospitality industry.
“The competition gives students official recognition of their
achievements and also opens doors, providing them with an
opportunity to kick-start their careers.”
Nestlé Toque d’Or Event Manager, Pip Duncan, said teams
competing in the event are made up of two cookery students
and one restaurant service student – all hand-picked by tutors
from each institution.
“The students are required to prepare six covers of a three-
course meal within two-and-a-half hours,” she said.
“They are scrutinised throughout the event by the judging
panel which marks team efforts against stringent criteria
and chef uniform did not make the same flight as him from
Whangarei to Taupo! Fortunately he arrived in Waiouru in time
for the ever reliable JSCS staff to provide him with knives and
equipment. He even found himself being privileged enough
to be presented with a JSCS chefs jacket to work in. JSCS Chef
Instructor, SSGT Manu Ferguson was also on hand to serve as
Paul’s ‘Commis Chef’ (Gofor…) for the day; the two proving to
be a great culinary team and occasional comedy duo! Several
students also participated in preparing the featured dishes.
Most notably was PTE Sade Waikato (TRSB) who made fresh
tortellini pasta served with the beef main course.
Paul’s passion and professionalism for all things culinary
was evident immediately, and the enthusiasm and dedication
he demonstrated was inspirational for all of the staff and
students present. This, in conjunction with his approachable
demeanour enabled easy conversation around the techniques
he demonstrated, although in most cases the JSCS staff
provided the most interaction, with the students appearing a
little shy that doesn’t sound like young Army Chefs!
Overall, the day was a great success, and JSCS are extremely
grateful to Paul for the outstanding presentations he delivered.
including preparation, hygiene, presentation, taste and
service.”
Strict time guidelines must be met and written menus are
also judged for their use of correct terminology and recipe
development.
Pip said she was especially pleased with the impressive
range of skills and experience of this year’s judging panel.
“We’re delighted that we’ve been able to secure top New
Zealand culinary professionals as judges. They bring a
wealth of experience and an impressive range of skills to the
competition.”
"ENCOURAGES OUR UP-AND-COMING TALENT TO
STRIVE TO BE THE VERY BEST THAT THEY CAN BE"
The Nestlé Toque d’Or competition will take place on 24
August at Hall 2 ASB Showground’s, Auckland.
Meanwhile, three hospitality students from the New Zealand
Defence Force Joint Services Catering School (NZDF) are
preparing to defend NZDF’s title as the current holder of the
prestigious Nestlé Toque d’Or Award.
This year, culinary students Craig Turnbull and Katherine
Wynands, along with restaurant service student Tamara
Leone will battle it out as they go head to head with 33 other
W
hospitality students from around the country.
NZDF’s Team Manager, SSGT Manu Ferguson, who coached
the team to victory last year, said he was aiming for another win.
“We’ve already selected our team but because our students
are spread out across the New Zealand Defence Force bases, we
will only meet as a team and start practising together two weeks
before the actual event,” he said.
“I believe my job is to provide a good working environment,
promote the right attitude and give the competitors guidance to
make sure the NZDF team is working cohesively as a unit.”
A HISTORY OF
NEW ZEALAND
FORCES
CHAPLAINCY
Bernard Redshaw, currently Editor of RNZ Signals
magazine, The Conche, is writing a book that takes
the existing history of the Army’s Royal New Zealand
Chaplains Department (Men of Faith and Courage
by J Bryant Haigh, published in 1983) forward, to
encompass a tri-Service chaplaincy history.
The book will start with the chaplains who served
during the Land Wars in the 1840s, and will progress
through their involvement in all three Services, in
all conflicts and peacekeeping operations to the
present day. It will also cover the CMT/National
Service days.
Whereas Men of Faith and Courage tends to
focus more on the lives and actions of the padres
themselves, and only on Army chaplains, Bernard
wants the new book to include more about soldiers’,
sailors’, airmen’s and service nurses’ experiences
of the padres who served in their respective units,
particularly those of whom they thought highly.
HE WOULD LIKE TO HEAR FROM ANYONE
WHO HAS BEEN A SERVICE PADRE, OR WHO,
AS A SOLDIER, SAILOR, AIRMAN OR SERVICE
NURSE, HAS A STORY TO TELL ABOUT
PADRES WITH WHOM THEY SERVED.
So he would like to hear from anyone (as many as
possible) who has been a Service padre, or who, as
a soldier, sailor, airman or service nurse, has a story
to tell about padres with whom they served. There
may also be descendants of servicemen or women,
who have relevant material (letters, photos, etc.),
who can help. All will be acknowledged in the book.
You can contact Bernard by phone on 03 526 6116,
by email at bernard.r@xtra.co.nz, or by writing to
him at Farrer House, Kina Beach Road, Tasman 7173.

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Brigadier Reginald Miles.
WAR DONATED
HERO'S MEDALS
Photograph courtesy National Army Museum
TO MUSEUM
The medals earned by one of New Zealand’s most decorated war heroes, Brigadier Reginald Miles,
CBE, DSO and Bar, MC have been donated to the National Army Museum in Waiouru.
Brigadier Miles earned a total of 15 decorations and medals as well as two mentions in
dispatches for service in both world wars.
A large group of Brigadier Miles’ extended family gathered at the museum on 13 August to
donate the medal set.
Brigadier Miles served with the New Zealand Field Artillery in Egypt, at Gallipoli and in France.
He was awarded the Military Cross in December 1916 for distinguished and gallant service in the
Battle of the Somme. Five months later he was promoted to major and assumed control of his
battery.
In March 1918 he was transferred to command a Howitzer battery. Although recommended for
the award of the Victoria Cross, he was awarded the Distinguished Service Order for gallantry and
devotion to duty near Ploegsteert Wood when his battery
was overrun. During the action he conducted a dangerous
reconnaissance mission during which he was wounded by "…HE TUNNELLED OUT OF THE CAMP USING
A KITCHEN KNIFE AND IRON STAIR RODS."
sniper fire. According to the London Gazette of the time,
Brigadier Miles “fought his battery until the enemy were
within 500 yards and his ammunition was exhausted.”
He was mentioned in dispatches by Field Marshal Haig seven months later for his
“distinguished and gallant service and devotion to duty.”
A career officer, Brigadier Miles was reabsorbed into the New Zealand Staff Corps after WW 1.
In January 1940 he was seconded to the 2nd New Zealand Expeditionary Force as Commander
Royal Artillery, of the Divisional Artillery of 2 (NZ) Division. In October that year he deployed to the
Middle East, and embarked with the New Zealand Division for Greece four months later.
According to his military records, in November 1941 he moved forward with the 8th Army into
Libya in the operation which led to the relief of Tobruk. He was inspecting forward batteries near
Belhamed when the position was overrun by enemy tanks and infantry. He was wounded after
going forward to be with his gunners during the offensive, and after being taken prisoner-of-war
he was incarcerated in the high-security Italian POW Camp, Campo 12.
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Peter Thorne George presents the medals to
the Chief of Army, MAJGEN Rhys Jones.
ARMYPEOPLE07
ISSUE 401 | 18 AUGUST 2009
Brigadier Miles' daughter Mrs Aimee Polyblank examines her
father's medals.Behind her are, from left, her son,Bill Dawson, her
son-inlaw Fraser McKenzie and her daughter Dorothy McKenzie.
In March 1943, with fellow New Zealand Brigadier James Hargest and several other high-
ranking Allied officers, he tunnelled out of the camp using a kitchen knife and iron stair rods.
The pair reached Switzerland. With the help of the French Resistance Movement he made his way
unaccompanied to Spain where he reported to the British authorities in Barcelona. Unwell, he
died in Spain in 1943.
During his WW II service Brigadier Milles was appointed Commander in the Military Division of
the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire for distinguished services during the campaign.
He was awarded a bar to his DSO for meritorious action during his escape from Campo 12, and
mentioned in dispatches for distinguished service in Greece. In April 1942 he was awarded the
Greek Military Cross 1st Class for his services to the Allied cause during the Greek campaign. In
addition he became entitled to the 1939-45 Star, Africa Star, War Medal 1939-45, and New Zealand
War Service Medal.
Brigadier Miles was known to be a great leader and soldier by
all those he served with, the Chief of Army, Major General Rhys
Jones told those gathered at the museum as the medals were
handed over.
“Having the medals on display will allow all New Zealanders
to recognise and celebrate the military career of a gallant senior
Army officer. We are honoured his family has decided to gift the medals to the museum.”
Brigadier Miles married Aimee Zita Donnelly in Egypt in 1916, and the couple had one son and
four daughters. His son, also named Reginald, served with the Fleet Air Arm, Royal Navy, and died
in June 1940 when HMS Glorious was sunk by enemy action off Norway. His first wife predeceased
him, and he re-married in 1940.
His grandson, Peter Thorne George said he was delighted his grandfather’s medals would be on
display to the public. “It was always my mother’s wish that the medals were on display.”
He said his grandfather spoke very little to his family about his wartime exploits. "But we all
knew he was an incredibly efficient soldier and a fantastic artilleryman. And very brave.”
Brigadier Miles’ daughter, Joan Polyblank, attended the Waiouru ceremony, along with eight
grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren, two of whom are in the RNZAF.
Brigadier Miles' great grandsons, Flight Sergeant Reg Dawson and LAC Simon Turner.
08ARMYEXERCISE

OH 09-0385-003
ISSUE 401 | 18 AUGUST 2009

"22 THIS IS ALPHA, SIGHTING

REPORT. AT 1315 HOURS, GRID
930469 1 x BTR AT FORWARD SLOPE
CONTINUING TO OBSERVE. OVER"

"DRIVER, SPEED UP – HALF TRACK

RIGHT – KEEP THE HERBS ON!"

GUNNER TRAVERSE RIGHT!
By John Archer
“Gunner Traverse Right! Driver Speed Up! Gunner SABOT BTR
ON! Driver Left. Speed Up! Dead ground to the left.” The crew
commander’s voice is urgent in my headphones. As we lurch to
a halt behind a hillock, the platoon commander comes in. “All
call signs, this is 22. Standby. Gunfire five bursts frontal. Report
when ready."
"Alpha ready." "Bravo ready." "Charlie ready." "Delta ready."
"Stand by... Wait ... Wait … Fire."
A BTR 80 we had been searching for all day was being dealt
with. Our four NZLAV crews of call sign 22 had begun their day
at Forward Operating Base Abbassia with a maintenance check
on their vehicles, and we had then moved out on a clearance
task assigned by the OC; our mission, to clear Musorian enemy
recon patrols that had infiltrated Waiouru from the north. The
enemy was mounted in BTR 80 armoured fighting vehicles and
supported by dismounted infantry.
I was photographing the student crew commanders during
their tactics phase near the end of Combat School's 9 week
NZLAV Crew Commanders Course 09/02. The twelve students
had already passed the NZLAV Driver and Gunner Courses. Now
they were testing their ability as crew commanders of individual
NZLAVs and their adaptability to work within a platoon/troop
environment.
Looking out of the hatch beside me on the rear deck of 22
Bravo was SSGT Tim Sorensen monitoring and correcting our
student crew commander. All the students were supervised and
“THE COURSE ENDED WITH FOUR WEEKS
OF ARMOURED VEHICLE TACTICS INVOLVING
INDIVIDUAL LIVE FIRING AND MANOEUVRE, AS
WELL AS TACTICALLY CONTROLLING THE NZLAV
WITHIN A PLATOON OF FOUR VEHICLES, WHILE
FOLLOWING CAVALRY TECHNIQUES…”
taught by experienced NZLAV tactics instructors with experience
at the platoon and company headquarters level. Through
every phase of the course the instructors had offered advice,
providing the guidance and skills necessary for the students to
successfully complete the course.
Each student’s training as a commander had begun with
a week of communications training, followed by four weeks
ARMYEXERCISE09 ISSUE 401 | 18 AUGUST 2009
learning the commander’s role in servicing the NZLAV,
maintaining vehicle control and issuing fire control orders.
This included enhancing the skills of the driver and gunner by
coaching and fault checking them.
The course ended with four weeks of armoured vehicle
tactics involving individual live firing and manoeuvre, as well as
tactically controlling the NZLAV within a platoon of four vehicles,
while following cavalry techniques and procedures.
The course ended with a function to announce the award for
Top Student. The award was presented by the guests of honour,
the National Secretary of the Divisional Cavalry Association, Bob
Scott, and former Divisional Cavalry member, Max Galbraith.
Both of them had crewed Div Cav's Staghound armoured cars
in World War Two. Now both in their eighties, they presented
the top student, LCPL Glen Rodger RNZALR, with the trophy their
association had donated in memory of Div Cav's outstanding
Padre, Chaplain Harry Taylor, DSO.
The Chief Instructor Major Bill Keelan concluded the
formalities by emphasising to the students that they were now
stepping up to new responsibilities as commanders. “You must
train your new crews appropriately,” he said, “And lead them by
example.”
10ARMYEXERCISE
ISSUE 401 | 18 AUGUST 2009
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TAKING ON YOUR NEMESIS
By OCDT Jack Seabrook
Jameson Shed in Waiouru Camp was a quiet place in late June
as bedraggled officer cadets from the Officer Cadet School
(OCS) came in from the cold after four endless days trudging
around the notorious Waiouru Training Area.
Considered the hardest peak to climb on the New Zealand
Commissioning Course (NZCC), officers-to-be undertook Exercise
Nemesis with maximum effort in an attempt to score well on
this year’s competition. Reformed from the escape and evasion
exercises of previous years, OIC CAPT Jono Meldrum and SSGT
Ed Dore-Wright set up a huge and hard-going adventure race
for this year’s cadets, with limits on food and sleep that put the
cadets even further outside their comfort zone than usual.
Though the three caches scattered on opposite sides of the
training area were most appealing to the quickly-ravenous
cadets, the OCS sections covered between 80 and 120km over
the four days, pushing through snow and rain and carrying on to
new activities despite the cold and the night.
WN 09-0004-38
A well deserved coffee break for 4 Section
after completing their stretcher carry.
With restrictions on the hours of sleep, plenty of cadets found
themselves searching for rock-filled ammo boxes, taking a dive
in the freezing Lake Moawhanga or building shaky-looking
rafts to fill in the time between pack-marching and jumping in a
bivvie bag.
Throughout the exercise, the cadets worked in sections to
plan and execute different tasks around Waiouru in order to
gain enough points to win the Nemesis Cup for 2009. These
activities ranged from putting up wiring in the snow-struck Zone
1 to locating jerry cans scattered in a 300m radius from a simple
grid reference south of the Argo Valley.
Though some cadet “war-stories” make light of the boundary-
pushing experience, this year’s exercise saw its annual
fair share of casualty evacuations and a “temporarily-lost”
section (who turned out to be mostly just lacking the ability to
communicate with the exercise controllers). The cadets who
weren’t thankful to medics during the exercise, were grateful to
get blistered feet on the mend as they handed in the infamous
Determined officer cadets begin a two Km stretcher carry in order to rescue
a “downed Airforce pilot” deep in the heart of the Waiouru Training Area.
4 Section slog out a snowbound stretcher
carry, as part of Exercise Nemesis.
pack-filling boxes they had lugged around.
Despite long trudges, the military adventure-race style proved
to be extremely popular, giving all the cadets a chance to lead
under high-stress situations that simulate some conditions
they may encounter in the future, while also offering a less
conventional exercise format.
The entire exercise was a rewarding success that saw all
officer cadets pushed to a point where only their true selves
could show and where personal strength was absolutely
necessary for the completion of tasks. All the cadets agree
they’ll never be cold again.
"ACTIVITIES RANGED FROM PUTTING UP WIRING
IN THE SNOW-STRUCK ZONE 1 TO LOCATING JERRY
CANS SCATTERED IN A 300M RADIUS FROM A SIMPLE
GRID REFERENCE SOUTH OF THE ARGO VALLEY"
 ARMYEXERCISE11
EXERCISE
ISSUE 401 | 18 AUGUST 2009
By Officer Cadet Samantha Scott
Exercise Frosty Boy is an annual experience for the first year
students on the Officer Cadet School Kippenberger Scheme.
The exercise gives the class better knowledge of the

FROSTY BOY 09
Army Leadership Framework and allows it to gain a better
understanding of self-leadership. The AATC staff do this
through pushing the class out of their individual comfort zones.
By training and living in the winter alpine environment officer
cadets develop the tools and self leadership to deal effectively
with adversity. The exercise runs for a week near Christchurch
and involves skiing and ski touring.
Frosty Boy kicked off on the 5 July, with the class driving from
Linton down to Christchurch. After a morning of lessons and
an afternoon of sorting out gear the class was ready to hit the
slopes. Most of them had very little, if any, experience on skis
so the morning began with some essential lessons. Everybody
picked up the skills quickly and by the afternoon the class was
cruising down from the top the mountain. The next day was
also about getting used to skiing but this time with packs on.
Balance became quite a testing issue.

"BY TRAINING AND LIVING IN THE WINTER

ALPINE ENVIRONMENT OFFICER CADETS DEVELOP
THE TOOLS AND SELF LEADERSHIP TO DEAL
EFFECTIVELY WITH ADVERSITY. THE EXERCISE RUNS
FOR A WEEK NEAR CHRISTCHURCH AND INVOLVES
SKIING AND SKI TOURING."
The next phase of the exercise was learning how to tour
so that the class would be prepared for the three days of ski
touring. Touring was a whole new learning experience for
everybody; it involved placing skins (almost like carpet) on to
the bottom of the skis. This allows you to walk up hills with your
skis on; a very unnatural feeling. The class soon managed to
walk up hills then ski down them. Everybody was pushed out of
their comfort zone, and there were some messy falls.
Once a decent level of skill was established packs were
crammed with supplies for three days and the class headed to
the back country of Mount Cheeseman. The first day was spent
finding a location for the camp site and setting up the site.
The mountain was covered in fresh snow and some epic skiing
took place. That night the class made sure they were rugged
up as they experienced their first night sleeping in the snow.

S
The second day involved touring all day. The class walked to
the summit of Mount Cheeseman and then skied down some
testing slopes. It was an exhausting day and everybody was
placed out of their comfort zone; good self-leadership was
essential to cope with the day. The last day was spent packing
up the gear and heading back to the commercial slopes of
Mount Cheeseman. Throughout the whole exercise the weather
was perfect and the mountain was consistently covered in a
fresh layer of snow. The last part of the exercise was spent
driving back to Burnham and debriefing the exercise.
Exercise Frosty Boy was full of breathtaking scenery, perfect
weather and was an extraordinary learning experience for all
involved. Thanks to the team at AATC for a great week and also
thanks to Captain Jono Meldrum and Sergeant Rawhiti Turia for
Touring up the hill to the top of the slopes. their help and support.
WN 09-0004-31

WN 09-0004-28
WN 09-0004-30

Officer cadets at the summit of Cheeseman. Sun rise at the camp site, out in the back country
12ARMYEXERCISE
ISSUE 401 | 18 AUGUST 2009

F
WB 09-0142-063

DO

MARLBOROUGH WORKPLACE
CHALLENGE A WINNER
The 2nd Canterbury, Nelson, Marlborough, West Coast Battalion
Group, in conjunction with the Public Health Unit Wairau
Hospital and the Joint Physical Training School Woodbourne,
planned and conducted a Workplace Challenge afternoon
recently. All invited workplaces from within the Marlborough
region, their personnel, supporters and potential recruits were
invited to attend.
The aim of the challenge was to foster intercommunication,
camaraderie, team work, staff development and competition
between workplace organisations and corporations in the
Marlborough region through team activity challenges, using
physical and mental agility. It also provided an opportunity for
this unit to conduct passive recruiting outside of the normal
recruiting strategies.
The event enabled the military to showcase its workplace
skills with the overall conduct of the workplace challenge
physical activities, and also provided an opportunity for
civilians who were interested in joining the Forces to gain
an insight into some of the day to day routines of Service
personnel.
Ten organisations were approached within the Marlborough
region, with interest from as far as Nelson. One team withdrew
on the day, however in good military fashion and with a bit of
direction, ten teams from the nine were fielded.
WB 09-0142-070

The activities involved a slippery log, crazy con-course,

murder ball, rice paddy, observation stand and a UNIMOG pull. Contestants crawl, haul, roll and run
their way through the challenge course.

TEAM PLACING:
Safe Air 1st

Child Youth and Families 2nd

Taylor Engineering 3rd

Cuddons Ltd 4th

WB 09-0142-047

Team TRS 5th

WB 09-0142-045

Sports Marlborough 6th

Marlborough Express 7th

Team Rouge 8th

Marlborough Chamber of Commerce 9th

Mixed Health and Wellbeing 10th

The Bull Ring was a tie between first and second place, so the
UNIMOG pull was used as a count back to decide the winner. It
was a great day and all activities were hotly contested, with the
winning Safe Air team deserving first place.
FIGHTING FIT ARMYPEOPLE13 ISSUE 401 | 18 AUGUST 2009

DON’T GIVE IN TO THE WINTER BLUES

By LTCOL Darryl Tong RNZAMC
Sir Edmund Hilary didn’t. Group Captain Douglas “Tin-legs”
Bader didn’t. Lance Armstrong doesn’t and the father of a four-
year-old boy with a horribly burnt windpipe in Afghanistan just
simply won’t. Won’t what? Give up their commitment that’s
what.
Now that winter is well and truly here, many people tend
to go into hibernation mode and literally shut down both
mentally and physically. Understandably it is very difficult to
get motivated for a run when it is blowing a gale outside and
sleeting, and maybe walking to work is not an option due to

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freezing temperatures and rain. But now is the time to really dig
deep and keep those commitments we made earlier in the year
or that have become part of our lifestyles.
One of the highlights of my last week was receiving a copy of
Runner’s World magazine (the other highlights include watching
my eldest daughter at a chamber music recital, waking up with
all four limbs intact and not having to breathe through a hole
in my neck) and interestingly it was dotted with tips on how to
keep training during winter, especially keeping motivated and
injury free.
Without plagiarising the magazine the essence of keeping up
with winter training, be it running, swimming, rugby etc, is to get
WB 09-0004-32
going in the first place. Getting out there to do stuff is the first
step. The second step is to keep things realistic—you are not
going to do a personal best time when it is one degree outside
and the tracks are covered in frost. Thirdly, have fun. Sometimes
we take for granted the things we have and do in New Zealand.
We don’t have to worry about fresh water, minefields, crossfire
and finding a meal. So why not have fun and be thankful for the
things we have and for being able to do what we do.
Keeping motivated not only applies to sports but other
aspects of life as well. How is that diet coming along? A hot pie
now and again is fine but a pie everyday for a month is probably
not the best for you. Are you keeping tabs on the drinking? It’s
cold and miserable outside; why not stay indoors with your
mates over a few brews? Again, everything in moderation. Are
you still able to meet family expectations? Winter blues can
range from feeling a bit down due to being stuck indoors, to full
blown depression due to seasonal variations. Are you keeping
on track with your own spiritual, mental and physical goals?
By setting the example for others to follow good leadership
can be developed and sends a powerful message to those who
may be looking to you as a mentor or a senior colleague. So it is
not just about one person although the initial step has to come
from within.
Some common sense ideas for keeping on track during
winter:
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when you cough, sneeze into the crook of your elbow and
remember to wash your hands or use hand sanitisers
especially before meals.
Keep warm, stay motivated and set yourself realistic goals
that are achievable and in doing so, keep things positive and
focussed.
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Cadet Under Officer Kylie Neal is presented with her

commendation by Wing Commander Guy Bendall.

CADET KYLIE PRESENTED

LTCOL Rob Hoult with daughter Jordan.

DAD AND DAUGHTER SHARE

LEADERSHIP KNOWLEDGE
It was a family affair with an Army flavour when an
Air Training Cadet received a leadership award in
Christchurch recently
The Southern Area Office held a Junior Leaders Course
for NZCF cadets in July.
As part of the course, a trophy is awarded to the cadet
who displays the most leadership potential, a significant
award as leadership is the principal focus of the course
and is presented by the Reviewing Officer of the end-of-
course parade. The winner of the trophy from the recent
July holidays course was Cadet Corporal Jordan Hoult,
of No 17 (City of Christchurch) Air Training Corps (ATC)
Squadron. Unbeknown to Cadet Corporal Hoult, the
Reviewing Officer for her course was the Director of the NZ
Army Leadership Project—and her dad— LTCOL Rob Hoult.
Also a former ATC cadet, LTCOL Hoult was unaware his
daughter was to receive the trophy until it was announced
on the parade ground.
WITH COMMENDATION
Cadet Under Officer Kylie Neal of the City of Lower Hutt
Cadet Unit (CLHCU) received a New Zealand Cadet Forces
Commendation presented by the Commandant Cadet Forces,
Wing Commander Guy Bendall recently.
Kylie is an administration assistant with Naval Staff in HQ,
NZDF.
The Commandant inspected a parade of 25 cadets before
presenting the commendation. This was followed by a
number of promotions. One promotion was made to Cadet
Sergeant Reggie Reid who received the Top Cadet Award on
his Senior Cadet Leadership Course recently.
A commissioning parchment was awarded to Second
Lieutenant Ian Walker, NZCF. Ian is a senior Corrections
officer and second in command of the unit.

"HE SPOKE TO THE CADETS ON THE VALUE OF
LEADERSHIP AND HOW THEIR TRAINING WOULD
SERVE THEM THROUGHOUT THEIR LIVES".
He spoke to the cadets on the value of leadership and
how the training they have received would serve them
throughout their lives. Leadership obviously runs in
the Hoult family, with LTCOL Hoult developing the new
Leadership framework for the Army, whilst daughter
Jordan climbs on the first rung of the leadership ladder.
Also present at the awards were LTCDR Brian Stokes
RNZN ( Assistant Commandant NZCF) LTCDR Glenn BURT
RNZN (Central Area Commander for NZCF),WOI John Barclay
( Warrant Officer of the New Zealand Defence Force) David
Ogden – Mayor of Hutt City, Major Bill Carruthers NZCF – HQ
Cadet Forces Wellington. Also present were members of the
Unit Support Committee, parents and friends
Kylie presented the unit with a drill cane which will feature
as an annual award for drill. Her last parade was 29 July
when she turned 20 years old and can no longer parade as a
cadet
wn 09-0004-26
wn 09-0004-25
DESERT KIWIS
GIVE ALL IN COLUMBIAN
DEATH MARCH
Help NZDF
reduce travel costs
Domestic travel is necessary for many NZDF roles; Now
more than ever, however it is important to review all
alternatives before booking.
To reduce unnecessary travel costs identify meetings
where a video or telephone conference may be appropriate,
or consider using a locally based representative to attend a
meeting on your behalf.
If travel is deemed necessary, help us to secure the ‘best
fare of the day’ by:
• First checking SATS flights to see if they fit with your
schedule
• Using eTravel, NZDF’s online booking tool
• Requesting non flexible fares and providing broad time
parameters of at least two hours
• Avoiding flight requests for the traditionally busy travel
days of Monday and Friday and peak times of 0700 -
0930 and 1600 - 1900
• Booking travel at least two weeks in advance
• Not requesting that you travel on a specific airline
• Travelling with hand baggage only (applies to Pacific
Blue and Jetstar)
• Avoiding ticket changes
NZDF is facing challenging times. By following the above
guidelines we can all help those travel budgets stretch a
little further.
Visit the NZDF intranet site for more information on
NZDF’s travel policy, to view stand-alone DFO 16/2007, to
check SATS flights, and for more info on our travel provider.
“it is important to
review all alternatives
before booking”
wn 09-0004-24
wn 09-0004-27
From top left, Team Ron Jeremy supported by fellow Kiwis; CPL Hollins and LWRT Roberston
happy in their stride; Thelma and Louise;PTE Hepi and LCPL Johnson enjoy a water stop.
By Warrant Officer Sharon Carrick, RNZAF
Eight brave and very determined Kiwis took part in the annual
Columbian Death March—Marcha Maxima Exigencia— on
Thursday 9 Jul 2009, in MFO North Camp, Sinai, Egypt,
The Death March is held to celebrate Columbia’s National
Day. The event itself is a “march” by a team of two dressed
in full uniform, webbing (with four magazines), military pack
complete with weighted sandbag, and a Columbian rifle. Age
and gender decides the weight of the sandbag which ranged
between 14 - 20 kgs.
Distance “marched” was 21 kms for the males and 14 kms for
the females. There weren’t too many rules except no running,
no getting too far ahead of your team mate (five metres
maximum) and only drink from the authorized water stations.
So, at 0530 we were up ready to go with feet strapped,
snacks stowed, iPods pumping and a good old Kiwi attitude on
board – “no stopping till the end”!!
The Force Commander greeted us all full of enthusiasm with
a speech that left us in no doubt that “pain was something in
your head” and “you must keep going to the end” – little did I
know how much that speech would actually help me make it to
the end.
The Kiwi teams were:
“Thelma and Louise” – WO1 Christine Willan (Army) and
W/O Sharon Carrick (Air Force)
“Desert Fairies” – CPL Carmen Hollins (Air Force) and LWTR
Capra Robertson (Navy)
“Team Ron Jeremy” - WO2 John Flintoft (Army) and SSGT
Shane Boyce (Army)
“K-Town Killers” - LCPL Jarrod Johnston (Army) and PTE
Mckye Hepi (Army)
The girls were away first and I must say after 10 metres I
wondered how the heck I was going to finish! My trusty partner
(WO1 Willan) took off with a hiss and a roar accompanied by
me puffing and panting to keep up. The “mature” guys (Team
Ron Jeremy) departed five minutes later, followed a further five
minutes later by the young guns (K-Town Killers) – all having
the daunting task of completing three laps of the course.
Supported by the other Kiwi contingent members on their
bikes, updates on how we were all going were being passed
from team to team. At the half way mark, the two Kiwi female
teams were placed 1st and 4th. Team Ron Jeremy were setting
a cracking pace with the K-Town Killers jostling with the Fijian
teams for a top three placing.
Following the 25 metre fireman’s lift (I forget to mention we
also had to do this) the female Australian team took the lead
but they were followed closely by “Thelma and Louise”. Not all
the will power in the world would make my legs go any faster
and although my brain wanted to catch them and over take
them, my body had other thoughts. WO1 Willan had her work
cut out to get me to the finish line – her patience and words of
encouragement were much appreciated and I am sure without
them (and the whole bag of gummy bears I scoffed), I would
Enthusiastic students
get a taste of Army life
have faltered.
Willing myself to keep going and not let the contingent or
myself down, our team rounded the last corner and the finish
line was finally in sight. It was amazing to see so many people
waiting for us to come in – with the New Zealand flag waving
high, we proudly walked (okay, I may have been crawling) over
the finish line to cheers, clapping and a big, big glass of water!
Better still, we had come second.
It wasn’t long before the second of the female teams turned
into that last corner – the Desert Fairies. They had maintained
their cheerful attitude which had got them round the course
– they still had their stylish sweatbands on and were merrily
singing as they crossed the line. Lots of back patting and hand
shaking followed as well as litres of water consumed by the
fairy duo.
“it takes determination and sheer grit to
complete and several times I wanted to give
up, but the Force Commander’s words kept
ringing in my ears and I kept going ...”
As we waited for the Kiwi male teams to complete their last
lap the temperature continued to rise. Reaching nearly 40
degrees, Team Ron Jeremy appeared on the horizon and began
the last stretch to the finish line. A large crowd of onlookers
had gathered but none were louder than the 22 Kiwis there
supporting THEIR boys! With a Kiwi flag waving high, they had
finally made it. Both were looking slightly worse for wear but
elated they could take their packs off and drink as much water
as they wanted. A 4th place finish in their category made their
efforts worth it.
With one Kiwi Team still to come in (K-Town Killers) the New
Zealand contingent headed out onto the course to support
them in. Encouraged (or maybe yelled at) by his partner PTE
Hepi, LCPL Johnston gave it his all. As he struggled with the
intense heat and dehydration, his step quickened and his head
lifted as the finish line appeared in sight. Shaded by the NZ
flag held high above their heads, the lads crossed the line to
secure 4th place in their category – a mammoth effort in the
heat of the day.
I can honestly say that the Death March is the hardest and
most challenging thing I have done – it takes determination
and sheer grit to complete and several times I wanted to give
up, but the Force Commander’s words kept ringing in my
ears and I kept going. The blisters, the sore back, and the
sunburned lips were worth it.
I was immensely proud of not just the eight contingent
members who competed in this event but also the 16 other
New Zealand contingent members who supported us every
step of the way. If they weren’t cycling beside us, they were
cheering us on, fetching us water or providing some much
needed shade. Their commitment to us tells me that this NZ
Contingent is definitely Three Services, One Force.
CPL Justine O’Dwyer, of 2 Health Services Team, points out a matter of fine detail to Kimberley Hemingway
(Wainuiomata High School) as she applies a bandage to PTE Davis Slatter’s “slashed wrist” at the 2HSB stand.
Taking it all in are Ben McCathie (St Bernard’s College, Lower Hutt, standing) and Justin Moss (Rongotai College).
A syndicate of Central Region secondary school pupils hears what the Army is all about
from a gunner’s point of view during a visit to 2FD during last month’s ACE programme.
Various air delivery systems are explained to an ACE syndicate group by LCPL Dwain Morrissey,
of 5MOV. From left are Chris Heatch ((CORR)) (Kapiti College), Michael Paul (Wellington College),
Quinton Tenbroeke-Smith (Onslow College) and Justin Moss (Rongotai College).
By Gary Parkes
The range of career options presented by the Army made a great
impression on a large group of assorted secondary school pupils
at Trentham and Linton Camps last month.
They were the 90 successful applicants for a place on the
annual ACE (Army Careers Experience) programme run by Army
Careers.
A member of the ACE team, marketing and operations co-
ordinator Chantal Fisher, said the students were about a 50:50 mix
of Year 12 and Year 13 pupils from schools in the area bounded
by New Plymouth–Gisborne–Wellington. The week of activities,
based primarily at Trentham, was designed to give them first-hand
insight into what the Army had to offer and what it took to be a
soldier, she said.
“all participants completed the Army pre-
entry fitness test. Each left Trentham with
individual written reports and a certificate.”
Teamwork military-style was emphasised, with the three
syndicates engaging in a range of tests as well as visiting trades
units at Trentham and a day meeting combat and support units at
Linton.
Wellington-based Army Careers Recruiter, Staff Sergeant Julian
Watts, said the syndicates enthusiastically threw themselves
into the main activity, Extreme Challenge, and all participants
completed the Army pre-entry fitness test. Each left Trentham with
individual written reports and a certificate.
“There was a lot of enthusiasm from them throughout the week.
Some already had a fairly good idea of what they wanted to do;
others were looking at options within the Army or Defence Force
generally.
“ACE gives them a chance to firm up their ambitions and
gives us a good opportunity to assess their physical and mental
attributes.”
SSGT Watts said about 70% of ACE students in recent years had
followed up with applications for service.
Clearly delighted his message got through, Alister George, of
Palmerston North Boys High School, quickly learns how to use
a field radio telephone. Talking him through the exercise is
SIG Ngatokoa Tikitau, of 2SIGS.
What should I do if
I get hurt at work?
• If you suffer a minor injury, use your camp or base Health and Safety
processes, and make sure that you register the incident.
• If you experience something more serious and you need to see a doctor
or other health professional, advise them that you work for NZDF.
Why can’t I go to ACC directly?
NZDF is an Accredited Employer under the Accident Compensation
Corporation (ACC) Partnership Programme. This means that NZDF
manages all work-related injuries on behalf of ACC including: registering
work-related injury claims, making decisions on cover and entitlements,
paying treatment providers, co-ordinating rehabilitation, and managing
dispute procedures.
Where can I get further information?
Further information is on the HQNZDF Personnel Branch Intranet site
under ‘ACC Home’, including the specific procedures and the rights of
personnel with a work-related injury claim. Alternatively, you can contact
your MTC or Civilian Administration Unit.
How do I contact the AEP Unit?
Mail: AEP Unit, Defence Health Directorate, HQ NZDF, WELLINGTON
Email: hqnzdfaepunit@nzdf.mil.nz
Ph: 348 8509 Fax: 348 8511 (internal)
Ph: (04) 498 6509 Fax: (04) 498 6511 (external)
16ARMYPEOPLE
ISSUE 401 | 18 AUGUST 2009

VIETNAM VICTOR COY

VETERANS SEE CANE IN ACTION
By Gary Parkes
A quartet of Vietnam veterans joined the 1st Royal New
Zealand Infantry Regiment to welcome home CRIB 13
troops from Afghanistan at Linton Camp recently.
Of particular interest to them was that the rotation had
been built on the battalion’s Victor Company. And the
parade gave them their first opportunity of seeing in use
a drill cane presented to V COY earlier this year.
A distinctive feature of the cane, currently carried by

WN 09-0004-54
Warrant Officer Class Two Roger Moana, is that it has “V”
engraved on the end of the cartridge case.
V COY veterans’ historian, Ray Symans, explained the
cane had been presented to battalion representatives
who fortuitously happened to be in Tauranga when the V
COY veterans held their fourth biennial company reunion
shortly before Anzac Day.
“We wanted something to hand down to successive
company sergeant-majors in perpetuity to remind them of
their roots.”
Sappers help their US colleagues lay new paths at Dili hospital.
Mr Symans said Victor and Whiskey COYS were

A SURGICAL STRIKE OF CONCRETE

specifically formed during the Vietnam War to provide the
NZ Army’s infantry component on rotation from Malaya.
Victor 1 was the first to serve there and this year marked
the 40th anniversary of its deployment. “We are thankful

ON THE DILI HOSPITAL

that the company titles were retained after we pulled
out of Vietnam,” said Mr Taukamo. “It is a big part of us
retaining our links with the battalion.”
With him were fellow Palmerston North Returned and
Services Association members Sonny Hona and Mike
Pehi and Olly Taukamo, of Wanganui. Although they
served with the company in Vietnam at various times, at
one point they were together on the Victor 4 rotation in
1969-70.
The welcome home parade also featured medals
presentations and promotions, made by 2nd Land
Force Group Commander, Colonel Howard Duffy and
Commanding Officer of 1RNZIR, Lieutenant Colonel Grant
Motley.
Following formalities, the veterans were delighted to
be invited to inspect the memorabilia —much of which
was familiar —in the 1RNZIR History Room and V COY
headquarters.
By LCPL Nicholas Booth In just 2 days the path as well as a few other small jobs were
Sappers from 2 Field Squadron had what amounted to their completed, and all too soon it was back to the hard point and
own version of “Mucking In” when they helped a troop of US patrolling. But what a transformation, and the pictures speak
National Guardsmen refurbish the paths around Dili hospital. for themselves. The path should provide access for visitors and
In July the guardsmen visited Dili as part of exercise Pacific patients for decades to come. Sometimes it’s the simple things
Angel, a USAF led (MEDCAP) activity which involved about 4000 that make all the difference.
civilians being treated over a week, as well as the completiton For the guys who helped, the Americans threw a post–
of infrastructure projects. pathlaying function. Sorry to report
One of the other jobs GIVEN DILI’S WEATHER AND AT TIMES CHAOTIC no Budweiser or Big Macs were on
offer but there was plenty of pizza
the guardsmen took on
was the completion some
TRAFFIC, PROPER FOOTPATHS ARE AN EXCELLENT and coke and since there wasn’t
much needed access paths USE OF RESOURCES AND A SIMPLE WAY TO EASE THE a hot box to be seen it was just as
around Dili hospital. Dili’s BURDEN FOR FOOT TRAFFIC AND OUT PATIENTS. well received.
only hospital is an excellent For those who played a small
facility; modern, clean and well resourced, thanks largely to part in the project it was very rewarding, and a perfect chance
UN contributions and foreign and local volunteers. But since it to see how another Armys engineers operate. As it turns out the
serves a large and rapidly growing population, it’s also one of American soldiers were nothing like Hollywood portrays them.
the busiest places in Dili. They were honest and hard working and surprisingly modest.
It rains heavily for four months of the year in Timor-Leste and Sapper Russ would say they were decent guys and easy to get
anyone who has been to Dili in the wet season will attest to dirt along with. I think they were taken aback by how fast we worked
tracks quickly turning into thick clinging mud, with the paths as they kept telling us to slow down.
around the hospital being no exception. Given Dili’s weather

Following father’s footsteps, CPL John Symans (left) is
currently serving with V COY, 1RNZIR. He was among
soldiers retrospectively presented with the Timor
Leste Solidarity Medal during a company medals
parade at Linton last month. With him is his father, Ray
(Palmerston North), who served in the Army for 21½
years, mainly with Army Service Corps (later Corps of
Transport) but including four and a half years with the
infantry. He saw service in the Vietnam War with V COY
and Whiskey 2 in 1959 then with Victor 4 in 1969-70.
CPL Symans served in the Solomons in 2003 and
Timor Leste in 2006-07.
WN 09-0004-67
and at times chaotic traffic, proper footpaths are an excellent
use of resources and a simple way to ease the burden for foot
traffic and out patients.
The job was scheduled to take a week, and laying concrete
in 30+ degree heat isn’t everyone’s idea of fun. But for the
boys from 2 Field Squadron who are currently part of the Gyro
7 contingent this is their bread and butter. When the call for
volunteers came the boys were cueing up. The sappers from 1
Platoon jumped in to give the Americans a hand. Those who
missed out were genuinely disappointed.
With the help of six Kiwi sappers, a dozen or so Americans,
and a some good old-fashioned hard work the job was
completed in less than two days. In the words of Sapper
Broughton one of the Kiwi soldiers, “It felt good to be doing
some hard engineer work, and take a break from patrolling and
security tasks.”

PENSION SHORTCUT FOR VIETNAM VETS WELCOMED

WO2 Roger Moana, CSM of V COY, 1RNZIR, watches
on as company Vietnam veterans admire his cane
presented by their comrades recently. From left are
Ray Symans and Sonny Hona (Palmerston North),
Ollie Taukamo (Wanganui) and Mike Pehi (Palmerston
North). All served together on the third rotation,
Victor 4, in 1969-70.
Veterans Affairs New Zealand (VANZ) has announced that the
War Pensions Presumptive List for Vietnam veterans will now
include Parkinson’s disease and ischaemic heart disease.
The additions bring to 15 the number of conditions on the
presumptive list for Vietnam veterans.
Presumptive lists allow for the automatic acceptance
of certain disabilities for a War Disablement Pension if a
veteran served in certain theatres of conflict.
The lists are based on medical and scientific research
which indicates that if a veteran of one of these theatres
is suffering from a certain disability, it is likely that the
disability was attributable to the veteran’s service.
“VANZ has been working hard to meet the needs of
veterans and to focus on improving the delivery of services,
including accessibility to War Disablement Pensions,” said
Veterans Affairs Minister Judith Collins.
“The addition of these illnesses to the presumptive
list will ensure automatic pension eligibility for Vietnam
veterans with medical evidence confirming they have these
conditions.
“It is essential that the Government listens to veterans
and is responsive to their changing needs. I welcome this
decision which improves access for veterans to support and
services.”
PRESUMPTIVE LISTS ALLOW FOR THE AUTOMATIC
ACCEPTANCE OF CERTAIN DISABILITIES FOR A WAR
DISABLEMENT PENSION IF A VETERAN SERVED IN
CERTAIN THEATRES OF CONFLICT.

CHRISTMAS COMES EARLY
FOR SERVICE FAMILIES
By Keryn Robertson
I wasn’t sure exactly what to expect when I accepted an
invitation to attend the 3rd Land Force Group mid-winter
Christmas Dinner for the families of deployed personnel.
My husband, Sergeant Willy Atkinson, has been in Timor-
Leste on Op Gyro for the last couple of months so I thought
I might as well go along and see who I knew. As I rushed
into the Mess to avoid the freezing night air I was greeted
with the sound of excited children, pleasant music from
the Army Band and an offer of a glass of wine and a platter
of cheeses. The Mess had been decorated to reflect the
festive spirit of a mid-winter Christmas complete with a
Christmas tree, crackers, party hats, a drink pouring elf and
yes, even Santa.
I was blown away by the numbers of soldiers that
attended to serve us. The public display of support was
fantastic with the Chief of Army, Major General Rhys
Jones and the Commander of Joint Force Headquarters,
Air Vice Marshal Peter Stockwell in attendance. Major
Louise Ferry, Graeme Begg and Zoe Ruddle cut the cake.
NZAPTC
PTI SELECTION COURSE
“Another day in our
office…keen?”
Course Title: NZAPTC Selection Course 09/02
Dates: 20 – 26 Sep 09
(Nominations Open 20 Aug – Close 03 Sep 09)
See your nearest gymnasium for details
ARMYPEOPLE17
ISSUE 401 | 18 AUGUST 2009
WN 09-0004-23
Brendan Wood did an excellent job of MC and kept us
all highly amused throughout the evening. There was a
large screen on which photos of our deployed friends and
family popped up throughout the evening. I certainly did a
double take at one stage when halfway through a mouthful
of roast chicken I was staring at a rather large image of my
husband.
The evening certainly wasn’t complete without a visit from
Santa. Just watching the excitement on all the small faces
in the room was enough to put a grin on anyone’s face. To
top it off for the kids there was even a crew from "What Now"
taping the evening and entertaining them. We were all given
the opportunity to record a message for our loved ones to
view and we were fed and pampered well into the evening.
The physical display of support and benevolence from the
military personnel of 3rd Land Force Group was touching and
very much appreciated by all the families present. On behalf
of us all I thank you for your time and efforts in treating us to
a highly enjoyable evening.
THIRTY YEARS
SERVICE
by John Archer
Swinging spanners, extracting equipment from overseas
peace-keeping missions, guiding dignitaries and
managing Army doctrine: these are just some of the
wide variety of tasks WO1 Purvis RNZALR has undertaken
during more than thirty years of service in the NZ Army.
WO1 George Purvis received the clasp to his Long
Service and Good Conduct Medal from COL Roger
McElwain at Waiouru on 1 July, and later recalled how he
had come to Waiouru as a Regular Force Cadet in January
1978. He completed a vehicle mechanic apprenticeship
and served in a number of units around the country.
"SWINGING SPANNERS, EXTRACTING EQUIPMENT
FROM OVERSEAS PEACE-KEEPING MISSIONS, GUIDING
DIGNITARIES AND MANAGING ARMY DOCTRINE ..."
In 1992 he was posted to Trentham, first as an
instructor at the School of Electrical and Mechanical
Engineering and then in a number of other roles at Army
General Staff. He served in Bourgainville in 1998 as part
of the force extraction team.
As chairman of Te Roopu O Te Pataka cultural group in
Trentham, between 2001 and 2007, he took over the task
of guiding visiting dignitaries (including Prince Andrew)
when they were welcomed to New Zealand at Government
House or Military Camps.
Carol Voyce with Father Christmas. WO1 Purvis is now in the G7 Branch of LTDG, managing
Army doctrine.
18ARMYPEOPLE
ISSUE 401 | 18 AUGUST 2009

REGT NO RANK INITS SURNAME EFFECTIVE CORPS REGT NO RANK INITS

PROMOTIONS
SURNAME EFFECTIVE CORPS
K1006857 SGT HJS TURNER 1-May-09 RNZIR F994042 LCPL AW JOHNSON 26-Jun-09 RNZE
C1006160 SGT SM KAREKO 6-May-09 RNZA S1013902 CPL OJ MAIHI 26-Jun-09 NZAPTC
Y1011493 SGT CD PARKER 6-May-09 RNZA U1003922 LCPL DJ OLD 26-Jun-09 RNZE
P55742 SGT WR DOUGLAS 1-Jun-09 RNZE M1015530 LCPL T SEARLE 26-Jun-09 RNZE
L1006973 SGT AD HILLIARD 4-Jun-09 RNZALR P1015578 LCPL JA STEWART 26-Jun-09 RNZE
D1017500 LCPL MR GRIBBEN 5-Jun-09 RNZSIGS P1015578 LCPL JA STEWART 26-Jun-09 RNZE
F1019411 LCPL LM RUSSELL 5-Jun-09 RNZSIGS D990475 SSGT JS WAIARIKI 29-Jun-09 RNZALR
C1018718 LCPL SVM GISBORNE 8-Jun-09 RNZALR K1011480 CAPT J.S LECKEY 30-Jun-09 NZIC
P1002100 SGT NM NORTON 10-Jun-09 RNZIR W1007650 LCPL GW HODDINOTT 1-Jul-09 RNZIR
Y1019290 LT S.B PLATT 10-Jun-09 RNZIR U1013950 LCPL RG MATENA 1-Jul-09 RNZIR
H52355 WO1 NA SNALAM 12-Jun-09 RNZE S53330 COL P.T.A KELLY 3-Jul-09
B1009862 CAPT R.H BROWN 14-Jun-09 RNZSIGS D998295 MAJ W.J MCEWAN 6-Jul-09 RNZAMC
W55128 WO2 WJ HODGE 15-Jun-09 RNZALR K51552 MAJ D.B RENNIE 6-Jul-09 RNZALR
H1013939 CPL PJ TAUNOA 17-Jun-09 RNZALR Y1017772 LCPL SD JECENTHO 8-Jul-09 RNZIR
L999222 SSGT AC FREEMAN 18-Jun-09 RNZALR F998757 MAJ T.E MCDONALD 9-Jul-09 RNZE
G998505 CPL BE BERRY 19-Jun-09 RNZALR Y746096 COL G.B.H FAHEY 11-Jul-09
R55997 WO2 GS MILDON 19-Jun-09 NZAPTC T775117 LTCOL D.M VOSS 11-Jul-09 RNZAMC
A186599 LTCOL M.R GARDENER 24-Jun-09 RNZAMC E1014626 LT R.C.O PINKERTON 13-Jul-09 RNZE
U760950 LTCOL B GRADWELL 24-Jun-09 RNZAMC G1016146 CPL BRC SCHUMACHER 13-Jul-09 RNZALR
F1014696 CPL BN SIFA 24-Jun-09 RNZALR P1018292 LCPL NS POPATA 14-Jul-09 RNZALR
L1011918 LTCOL D.C TONG 24-Jun-09 RNZAMC W1020967 LCPL AK COYLE 15-Jul-09 RNZSIGS
P1011484 CAPT G.I MILLER 25-Jun-09 RNZA N994785 MAJ S.D EDWARDS 24-Jul-09 RNZNC
P1017050 LT T.D ABEYRATNE 26-Jun-09 RNZSIGS L769958 MAJ B.P WOOD 4-Aug-09 RNZAMC
U1013214 LT A.J.C DODDS 26-Jun-09 RNZIR Newly promoted supply technician Lance Corporal Noelene Popata has
T1015582 LCPL C GRAY 26-Jun-09 RNZE plenty to smile about: she loves her job, and she’s the mum of beautiful
T1015582 LCPL C GRAY 26-Jun-09 RNZE one-year-old, Izakchey.
LCPL Popata, RNZALR, was promoted last month. Her job involves
P1001916 LCPL AW JAHNKE 26-Jun-09 RNZE ordering and supplying much of the clothing for personnel from 2 LFG.
B1002893 LCPL RA JAMES 26-Jun-09 RNZE “I love my job because I get to meet people right across the Army
J1012307 CPL AR JAMES 26-Jun-09 NZAPTC spectrum. I enjoy the PT, and especially being able to do it during working
hours. And I really love being out in the field.”

3 LOG TAKES OUT TWIN PEAKS BATTLE TAB By Jane Mortlock

They came, they participated, and they conquered. Personnel
from 3 Logistics Battalion cleaned up the Twin Peaks Battle Tab,
held on 26 July.
The competition, organised by Four Otago Southland
Battalion Group and held annually in Dunedin, is straight
forward. Competitors have to run 26 km with their webbing,
rifle and patrol pack. Competitor Corporal Glen Nelson explains
that it is “as hard as you want to make it”.
Now in its eighth year, the Twin Peaks Battle Tab was created
to be a test of physical and mental endurance for Four Otago
Southland Battalion members.
“The race is well known and very popular, and so we decided
over the past few years we have opened it up to the other
reservist units from around the country and Regular Force units
from 3rd Land Force Group,” explains 4 O South’s RSM WO1 Ken
Ritchie. “The course traverses the slopes and hills over looking
Dunedin. The teams compete for the coveted Battle Tab Trophy,
with additional prizes for the fastest individual (Summit trophy)
and fastest female team Flagstaff trophy.
“This year the competition was held in near perfect weather
conditions. The track conditions were generally ok, but with
the usual difficult spots, specifically the descent from Swampy
Summit to Leith Valley Road with parts quickly turning into a
slippery mud slide once a few teams had been through. All
those who competed in the race were challenged by the terrain
and the distance.
“The race saw a good effort from all involved, with most
of those starting reaching the finish line. After a trip to the
physiotherapy hot pool, all teams were brought back to the
Kensington Army Hall for dinner and prize giving before making
a night of it in the Garrison Club bar.”
Three Logistics had 19 personnel competing, and all were first
timers in the competition.
The results for the top team place getters were as follows:
1st 3 Logistics Battalion, Workshops 4 hrs19 mins 09 secs
2nd 4 Otago Southland Combat Company Team 1 4 hrs 51
mins 09 secs
3rd Dream Team (3 HST) 4 hrs 58mins 21 secs
Individuals:
1st CPL Nelson (Wkshp) 3 hrs 21 mins 46 secs
2nd CAPT MacGibbon (Dist) 3 hrs 29 mins 32 secs
3rd 2LT Chambers (Dist) 3 hrs 37 mins 36 secs
NS ARMYPEOPLE19

AK 09-0485-048

AK 09-0485-014
ISSUE 401 | 18 AUGUST 2009

Mr and Mrs Ian and Peggy Judge, who Veterans Affairs Minister Judith Collins, Mr and Mrs Judge, and
researched and built the memorial boards. the Rev. Kevin Herewini during the dedication service.

LONG RANGE DESERT GROUP HONOURED IN PAPAKURA
The SAS maintains strong links, both practical and
commemorative, with Special Forces veterans in New
Zealand.
An area of the Papakura camp contains a series of
memorials to various Special Forces units. It is flanked by
landscaped gardens, with a picturesque black and white
chapel, St Marks, at one end. The area was built and
officially opened in 2005, and the LRDG is among the New
Zealand Special Forces units represented in the memorial.
In 2000 1 NZSAS Group invited the LRDG Association
to its unit facilities, then based at RNZAF Air Base in
Hobsonville. This led to a room being named the LRDG
room. An SAS officer arranged for LRDG veterans or
descendants to be presented with a National Greek
Commemorative Medal of 1941-45 from the Greek
Ambassador for service during WW II in Greece and Crete.
Each year the LRDG president and secretary are invited
to attend SAS birthday celebrations.
More than 400 New Zealanders were part of the LRDG
during WW II. The unit began life as the Long Range
Patrol detachment in 1940, later becoming the LRDG. Its
formation was the idea of a British officer, Major Ralph
Two honour boards containing details of every New Zealand
soldier who served in the Long Range Desert Group (LRDG)
were unveiled at Papakura Military Camp on 7 August, the 69th
anniversary of the unit’s formation.
The Minister of Veterans Affairs, Judith Collins, was guest
speaker at the unveiling.
The forerunner to the Special Air Service, the LRDG was one of
the first Special Forces units of WWII, and originally comprised
mainly New Zealanders.
The honour boards were created by the secretary of the LRDG
Association of New Zealand Mr Ian Judge and his wife Peggy. Mr
and Mrs Judge researched the LRDG’s history and the people
named on the Roll of Honour, and also built the boards. Mr
Judge is a LRDG veteran.
He presented them to the 1st New Zealand Special Air Service
Group at the unveiling ceremony, which was also attended by
other LDRG and WW2 Special Forces veterans, veterans’ widows
and descendants. The boards are hanging in the foyer of St
Marks Chapel, near the SAS compound in the camp.
During the service, which was conducted by the Rev. Kevin
Herewini, odes were read by serving SAS members and
veterans. Remembrance prayers were read by Rev Herewini.
Wreathes were laid, the New Zealand National Anthem sung.
Judith Collins told those gathered for the unveiling they could
take heart that the memory of the LRDG was in good hands.
“Far behind enemy lines, away from supplies and
reinforcements, the (LRDG) Kiwis proved to be incredibly
adaptable, self-reliant and resourceful. The units also
carried out many successful intelligence-gathering and strike
operations. There is little doubt their activities had a significant
impact on the Desert War.”
Ms Collins paid tribute to the assistance current SAS soldiers
and the NZSAS Association provide for their Special Forces
veterans.
“1 NZSAS Group and the association have provided
invaluable support for the LRDG in their Charter Parades
through the streets of Papakura, and purchasing mobility
scooters for two LRDG veterans and a widow to use in their
twilight years.
“Since 2001, LRDG veterans, widows and descendants have
attended the 1 NZSAS Group Anzac Day celebrations each year,
laying a wreath on their own memorial inside the grounds of
the New Zealand Special Operations Forces Memorial area. This
is a very special relationship built on respect and the desire to
honour the history of these elite units. I am sure it will only get
stronger.”
AK 09-0485-032

Bagnold, in early 1940. Between the wars he was part of a

civilian expedition into the deserts of North Africa driving
Ford vehicles. Initially 150 New Zealand volunteers were
chosen with the permission of General Bernard Freyberg,
the New Zealand Commanding General in the Middle East
theatre.
AK 09-0485-018

It was thought that New Zealanders, who came from

mostly rural backgrounds, would be more suited to the
long periods of isolation, harsh weather conditions and
danger than their British counterparts.
The unit undertook reconnaissance missions, and
attacked enemy outposts. A year after its formation it
began raiding enemy supply convoys and airfields, with
one attack destroying 30 aircraft.
According to RL Kay, the author of Long Range Desert Special Forces veterans Tom Ritchie and Pippa Doyle.
Group in the Mediterranean, after the battle of El Alamein
the LRDG guided the 2nd New Zealand Division in a series
AK 09-0485-012

of “left hooks” designed to trap Rommel’s retreating

Army. In early 1943 it reconnoitred possible routes to
outflank the Axis Mareth line, and navigated the New
Zealand division in the subsequent operation to achieve
this in March 1943.
After training in mountain warfare in Lebanon, the
LRDG was particularly active in Greece. In December 1943
the New Zealanders were withdrawn from the LRDG and
posted to the Divisional Cavalry.
The SAS, which often used the transport provided
by the LRDG, began in July 1941 when it was founded
by Briton Colonel Sir David Stirling. It was based on
the establishment of small teams of parachute-trained
soldiers who operated behind enemy lines to gain
intelligence, destroy enemy aircraft and attack enemy
supply and reinforcement routes. Veterans Affairs Minister Judith collins and Mrs Judge with Major Charmaine Tate and veteran Mrs Pippa Doyle lay a
the memorial boards. wreath of remembrance.
20ARMYSPORT

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ISSUE 401 | 18 AUGUST 2009

RIDING
HARD
SOUTHERN REGION
ARMY CYCLING
Burnham has initiated a cycling group which rides together
every fortnight. The Southern Region Cycling Co-ordinator,
MAJ Kirstine Collins, said the aim of the cycling group was to
educate people on the benefits of cycling and encourage people
to give it a go.
The group meets every second weekend and has been
progressing the distance covered with the aim of entering
a large team into the 160km Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge.
Instruction is being given on cycling techniques as well as how
to ride in a bunch. The group consists of experienced personnel,
such as LTCOL Rob Hoult who is training for the World Ironman
WN 09-0004-56

Champs in Hawaii, and complete beginners.

LCPL Haleigh Glass is a newcomer to cycling and says she
enjoys the social aspect of the bunch rides, while CPL Ariana
Finch says she likes being able to take in the scenery when
cycling.
SSGT Kathy Spence is also new to cycling and says that it
is never too late to start. She enjoys getting out and meeting
people and exercising in the fresh air while maintaining fitness.
SGT Wayne Anderson has been cycling on an off for a few years
and says he enjoys the challenge and the opportunity to ride
socially and still have a good workout. MAJ Kirstine Collins
has been cycling for some time and says one of the benefits
of cycling is that it is a low impact sport and easy on the body.
It is a good fitness activity when injuries prevent running or
participating in high impact sports.
For further information on Burnham Army Cycling Group visit
the following Army Intranet website link http://communities/
Sport/ArmyPages/Sport/Cycling/RegionalRides.aspx. For
further detail including other 2009 events and for those
interested in competing for Army in events later in the year
go to the Army Cycling NZDF Intranet Homepage at: http://
communities/Sport/ArmyPages/Sport/Cycling/Homepage.aspx
For more information on Burnham Army Cycling contact MAJ
Kirstine Collins on DTelN 337 7302 or kirstine.collins@nzdf.mil.nz
Ride Hard, Ride Safe

CALLING ALL SKIERS AND BOARDERS

NZ Army Regional Ski and Board Competition and
Inter-Services Ski and Board Championships 2009

The RNZN and NZ Army (Waiouru) Ski Clubs will be hosting

the 3rd
rd Annual (Unofficial) Army Regional and Inter-Services

Ski and Board championships at Turoa over the period 17 – 20

Sep 2009.

Any skiers or boarders who are interested in competing please contact the
Waiouru Ski Club Captain, SSGT Wooley for further details via email at:
craig.wooley@nzdf.mil.nz

NZSAS THE FIRST FIFTY YEARS
NZSAS, The First Fifty Years, by Ron Crosby. Published
by Viking, Auckland, 2009, 464pp, $65. Reviewed by Ian
McGibbon.
The award of a Victoria Cross to Corporal Willie Apiata in 2007
not only recognised a signal act of gallantry, it also threw the
spotlight firmly on one of New Zealand’s most shadowy military
units — the SAS. The SAS’s aversion to publicity of its personnel
or their activities had ensured that the public generally had
little idea of its role or composition, other than that joining
it demanded successfully completing a notoriously difficult
selection course. Now the veil was drawn back at least a little.
The SAS basked in the glory of Apiata’s award.
The series of activities undertaken by the SAS in the last
decade or so, and the emphasis since 9/11 on counter-
terrorism, indicate that the NZSAS has a secure and respected
place in New Zealand’s defence structure. Readers of this
excellent account of the SAS’s first fifty years will find, perhaps
to their surprise, that this has not always been the case. The
NZSAS has struggled at times to secure acceptance. Even
as late as 1999 its future still looked ‘decidedly shaky’ to its
commander.
In part, this sense of insecurity derived from concern that
politicians at the highest levels did not fully appreciate the
important capacity residing in the NZSAS. But ill–informed or
unsympathetic politicians were not the only threat. Senior and
other officers in the military often either did not understand
the SAS role or were jealous of the SAS’s privileged position.
Successive NZSAS commanders had to use their initiative to get
round obstacles thrown up by their obstruction, intentional or
otherwise.
The corps originated in New Zealand’s decision in 1955 to
send a specially recruited SAS unit to Malaya to join the newly
formed British Commonwealth Far East Strategic Reserve. More
than 800 men applied and the 130–man unit left New Zealand
in November 1955 under the command of Major Frank Rennie.
During its two–year stint in the reserve, it hunted communist
terrorists — or CTs, as they were known — in Malayan Emergency
operations, achieving several important eliminations. Two
members of the unit lost their lives, the first of eleven NZSAS to
do so either on operations or in training during its half-century
existence. Upon its return to New Zealand in 1957, the unit was
disbanded.
Recreated in 1959, the NZSAS led a somewhat tenuous
existence at first, as it fought to secure a viable role within the
existing army structure, and to obtain the equipment it needed.
But deployments in Thailand, Borneo and South Vietnam
kept the unit busy for much of the 1960s in operations well
described in this book. While the Thai sojourn did not involve
any hostilities, SAS troopers took part in cross-border incursions
in Borneo, and had occasional clashes with the Indonesian
Army. In South Vietnam a troop served as part of an Australian
SAS squadron from 1968 to 1971, and the operational tempo
was much higher than in Borneo. The 155 patrols carried out by
the troop were mainly reconnaissance but also often involved
ambushes. Especially in 1968 clashes with the Viet Cong were
frequent, and some patrols had narrow escapes from being
surrounded and overwhelmed. Opportunity was also taken to
spend periods with American special forces units, broadening
the experience and abilities of the New Zealanders. One SAS
sergeant was killed in Vietnam.
After Vietnam the unit experienced a quarter of a century of
uncertainty. SAS troopers continued to improve their capacity,
steadily acquiring new skills, but doubts remained about what
role they might play. During this period, counter-terrorism
emerged as a new facet of the SAS’s work. Its counter-terrorist
or ‘black’ role was highlighted during the APEC Leaders’
meeting in Auckland in 1999, with the NZSAS heavily involved in
protecting the visiting dignitaries. There is interesting material
in this book about how the capacity of the SAS to deal with
potential hostage situations was brought home to politicians
like Robert Muldoon, who was surprised to find that live
ammunition had been used in a demonstration in which he was
a central character.
Not until nearly the end of the century did the SAS come
into its own with a series of overseas deployments–in
Bougainville, Kuwait, East Timor and Afghanistan. A 19-strong
SAS detachment formed part of the Truce Monitoring Group in
Bougainville in 1997-98. The deployment to Kuwait, prompted
by a US-led build up against Saddam Hussein’s Iraq, provided
the opportunity for a 24-man squadron to practice in a desert
environment. Forty NZSAS personnel were involved in the
deployment of INTERFET in East Timor in 1999 and unit members
returned to the island in the following year. But it is Afghanistan
that has provided the NZSAS with its greatest opportunities
this century. A squadron deployed there for a year in December
2001 following the 9/11 attacks on the United States, Taliban-
controlled Afghanistan having been the training ground for the
Islamic group responsible. This book throws light on the type of
operations undertaken by the SAS, and the innovation and skill
required to operate in Afghanistan’s difficult environment. Two
ARMYPEOPLE21 ISSUE 401 | 18 AUGUST 2009
further deployments took place in 2004 and 2005, and it was
during the former that Apiata performed his gallant deed. Now
in 2009 the government has decided to send the NZSAS back
for a further stint.
Ron Crosby faced unusual problems in recounting the story
of the NZSAS. Operational security considerations had always
to be borne in mind. This is most evident in the use of first
names or initials only of SAS members mentioned in the text
in coverage of more recent operations and the blurring of
faces in some photographs. Despite these difficulties, and the
loss of records (made up for by the dedicated efforts of some
SAS men to gather unit historical material), Crosby brings out
clearly the elements that set the NZSAS apart from the rest
of the army, not least its focus on the pursuit of excellence,
commitment to high quality leadership and emphasis on
flexibility. His account benefits from the many interviews he
conducted with former and serving SAS personnel. He is better
on the activities of the unit than on the political background to
its formation or sustenance. One aspect that is conspicuously
absent from Crosby’s treatment is the role of women in the
NZSAS. This has been limited, to be sure. So far none have been
badged members of the unit, though women are not prevented
from attempting the selection course. Female soldiers have,
however, served in the unit in a variety of specialist support
roles and have even deployed overseas with it. The contribution
of some does get mentioned behind the anonymity of initials,
and will, of course, be recognised by SAS personnel if not by
ordinary readers.
In describing the SAS’s overseas deployments and its
problems between them, Crosby emphasises the qualities
that go to make up the NZSAS — adaptability, determination,
professionalism. These have as their basis very stringent
selection procedures, intensive training and inculcation
of traditions — and the recording of these traditions is an
important function of this book. SAS members reading this book
will gain a new perspective on the elite role they play as a ‘vital
strategic tool’ for the government in responding to crises both
here and abroad, and of the achievements — and tribulations
— of their predecessors. Other readers will find the glimpse
it provides inside a relatively secretive element of the armed
forces both illuminating and fascinating. This useful corps
history is strongly recommended.
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22ARMYPROFILE
ISSUE 401 | 18 AUGUST 2009
BURNHAM RUGBY LEAGUE’S
LONGEST SERVING MEMBERS
The Burnham Rugby League Club is celebrating its 25th
Anniversary during the weekend 4 – 6 September 2009 so
it is fitting that tribute be paid to the Club’s longest serving
members.
WO2 Pete Albrett and his wife Niva have spent 20 very loyal
years with the club. Pete originally came from a rugby union
background, playing for the Burnham Senior A Rugby Team in
1984. His first experience with rugby league was when he was
invited by his colleagues to watch a Burnham Rugby League
game and later invited to play. Pete admits that after his first
game, he’s never looked back enjoying the ‘freedom of the ball’.
Niva comes from a very strong rugby league family, including
playing as lock or loose forward for Otautahi, Kaiapoi and
Shirley.
When Pete and Niva joined the club in 1985, it was originally
known as the Burnham Knights Rugby League Club, later
changing its name to the Burnham Cavaliers in 1986 and is now
known as the Burnham Chevaliers Rugby League Club. Pete
and Niva remember one of the original clubrooms on the back

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of Gallipoli Mess (next to NZ Army Band Room) as well as the
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the club took the Army issue maroon physical training rugby
(PTR) jersey and added some spare blue material found by a
very resourceful club wife, who spent long hours sewing on the
jersey numbers and the famous Rugby League ‘V’.
"PETE AND NIVA HAVE PROVIDED A LEGACY FOR THE CLUB
WHICH WILL BE HARD FOR ANYONE TO MATCH. THEIR
EXEMPLARY AND LOYAL SERVICE TO THE CLUB WILL BE
ACKNOWLEDGED AT THE ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS "
Pete and Niva were first drawn to the club because it had
a great atmosphere of family and friendship. They recall that
parental participation was strong and they were never short
of help. The Burnham Rugby League Club was well known for
having the best functions and socials. Today, the Club’s family
feeling and social atmosphere is still strong, but Pete and
Niva admit that it’s been a huge family effort over the last 20
years. It is evident that they have both made huge sacrifices
in not only family time but also not being able to support their
own children’s sport as much as they would have liked to.
However, Niva is quick to acknowledge that she has had great
support from friends and her extended family who are also avid
supporters of the Club.
Pete and Niva have had their share of achievements with their
sons Harley, now aged 32, representing the Manawatu Under
15’s and Royce, now aged 28, representing Canterbury 18s
in Rugby League. All three sons have played for the Burnham
Chevaliers over the years, with their youngest Cody, 18 ,joining
the Division 1 team this year. Cody was one of the original
players (Under 7s) for the Chevaliers’ first children’s team,
affectionately nicknamed The Daisy Pickers. The boys have
always had great support from their brother Tobias and sister
Holly who can also be found on the sidelines supporting them
at every game.
Pete and Niva have fond memories of Pete’s first coach Hoki,
who was wheelchair bound. All the boys use to pitch in looking
after him all night in the clubrooms and Niva would drive him
home at the end of the night. They both remember the time Hoki
WO 2 Pete Albrett delivers a half-time team talk.
WN 09-0004-39
was hospitalised but was insisting on being at a game. So the
WN 09-0004-40
boys had his hospital bed loaded on the back of the furniture
truck which they parked on the sideline so he wouldn’t miss the
game…how’s that for dedication?
Pete has had a very successful Rugby League career with
many personal achievements including:
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tournaments.
Pete and Niva have provided a legacy for the Club which will
be hard for anyone to match. Their exemplary and loyal service
to the Club will be acknowledged at the Anniversary (see p.
23) celebrations and will be remembered by the Burnham
community for a long time.
In the face of adversity through high Army tempo, the
Burnham Rugby League Club has overcome and endured the
challenges to continually produce a competitive team every
season since its inception, even as other Burnham teams
folded. This has been a result of hard work and dedication from
Pete, Niva and their family but also by other club members
such as the Hansens who have also been with the Chevaliers
for more than 10 years, and also the Te Taus, Godsmarks, Mills,
Fyfes, Waiarikis, Hatis and Broughtons.
2000 Burnham Chevaliers team.
The Burnham Chevaliers Rugby League Club is known to
many as the ‘Home of Army Rugby League’ where friendships
WN 09-0004-42
are made and families are welcomed. The Burnham Chevaliers’
reputation is one of strength, discipline and pride, and the
Burnham teams are known for always playing a hard but clean
game. In fact, Pete remembers that one season 11 key players
deployed to East Timor and although they struggled to field a
team each week, they surprised themselves by going through to
the finals and winning!
All tribute to the players, management and supporters
who continue to volunteer their personal time to ensure the
Burnham Chevaliers Rugby League Club continues to survive.
WO1 Dave Mills, President of the Burnham Rugby League Club
would like to invite all past and present members to join us
in celebrating 25 years of proud Club history in Burnham over
the weekend 4 – 6 September. For more information please
contact: Mrs Kelly Hati, Training Wing, 2/1RNZIR or email: KELLY.
Pete Albrett with junior Chevaliers. NEEDHAM@nzdf.mil.nz.
 ARMYSPORT23
WN 09-0004-59

ISSUE 401 | 18 AUGUST 2009

SOUTHERN WIN
INTER ISLAND SENIORS MATCH 2009
The Army’s inter-island Seniors’ match, our version of State
of Origin, was played in ideal conditions on Burrows Field at
Burnham earlier this month. Interest in this game had been
building for several months within Burnham as the FSM 3 LFG
sought “utu” for the losses inflicted in 2008.
After the opening ten minutes the first penalty was given to
Southern. This was converted by Pat Yukich. Early stages of the
match were played with a heavy forward exchange. Northern,
with its raft of Army and NZDF forwards, exerted immense
pressure on its Southern foe and it was Northern who scored
the first try of the match to winger Nick Wickham, after an
attempted clearing kick was charged down. With the conversion
missed the score was 5-3.
Southern hit back three minutes before halftime with a try to
Lloyd Carter which was also converted. Southern led 10-8 at the
break.

"EARLY STAGES OF THE MATCH WERE PLAYED WITH

A HEAVY FORWARD EXCHANGE. NORTHERN, WITH
ITS RAFT OF ARMY AND NZDF FORWARDS, EXERTED
IMMENSE PRESSURE ON ITS SOUTHERN FOE AND IT
WAS NORTHERN WHO SCORED THE FIRST TRY OF THE
MATCH TO WINGER NICK WICKHAM ..."
The second half opened with the same level of commitment
as the first half, with both teams combative in the contact and
tackle area. The Northern forward pack was totally dominant at
scrum time, however the Southern pack’s tenacity and courage
at the ruck and maul ensured a a steady supply of ball was
delivered to its classy backline. Lloyd Carter proved to be an
elusive runner from broken play and Junior Afai was the rock of
the Southern backline. Aaron James and Nick Wickens were the
pick of the Northern backline. The battle of the loose forwards
was keenly contested with Player of the Day, Roger Mockford,
and No 8 Charlie Togia particularly noticeable.
It was the silky handling skills of the backs that helped
Southern get across the paint first in the second half with a try
to Pat Yukich. A second try to N Wickens closed the scoring for
the game which was eventually won by Southern 20-15.
Southern seniors P Yukich (2 xPenalty, Conv, Try) (L Carter
Try) (A Flitten Conv )
Northern seniors A Curry (Penalty, Conv,) N Wichman (2 x
Tries)
It will be all on again next year with Northern hoping to settle
the score. After the game an Army side was chosen to play
Heartland sides Mid-Canterbury and South Canterbury. Good
crowds are expected for these matches.

LCPL Sonny Woodmass reaches high. The New Zealand Army side for the southern tour is:
R Player Captain. Prop A. Curry First Five
WN 09-0004-61

T. Landon-Lane Prop V Salmond First Five

L. Murphy Prop J. Afai Midfield
M. Kerr Prop J. Bush Midfield
S. Harrison Prop/Hooker A Flitten Midfield
WN 09-0004-60

Z. Ransfield-Kake Hooker B. Marakau Wing

S. Woodmass Lock
V. Luatau Lock
T. Kerekere. Lock
J. Berghan. Flanker
S. Iloahevfaiva Flanker
C. Togia Flanker
D. Waiwai Flanker
T. Ewing-Jarvie No 8
P. Yukich Half Back
D. Morgan Half Back
N Wickham Wing
B James Fullback
A James Utility Back Vice
Captain
L Carter Fullback
S Thomas Manager
P Lloyd Coach
L Mooney Asst Coach
R James Asst Manager
D Forbes Trainer

The President of the Burnham Chevaliers Rugby League Club

would like to cordially invite
all past & present members to celebrate the

25th Anniversary
at Burnham Military Camp over the weekend 4th – 6th September 2009.
Please contact Mrs Kelly Hati or WO2 Paora Patuwai, 2/1RNZIR for more information.
24ARMYSPORT
ISSUE 401 | 18 AUGUST 2009
VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT
The Army Inter-Regional Volleyball Tournament 2009 held in
Papakura Camp, Auckland was a great success, say organisers.
In spite of the challenges faced in the planning process with
the recruitment of players from all three regions, as well as
finding a suitable playing venue, there was no doubt that the
tournament was going ahead. In the final hours, numbers were
confirmed from Southern, Northern with the majority of players
coming from Central region.
The tournament kicked off with a welcome by Commanding
Officer, 1NZSAS to the home of the 1st NZ Special Air Service
Group. This was followed by two heated days of competition at
the Manurewa Recreation Centre which saw raw talent from both
older and newer players. It was encouraging to see the level
of skill from junior players who recently joined the volleyball
fraternity; the likes of GNR Sila Ualesi (16 Field Regiment) who
was awarded the Rookie of the Tournament; GNR Felisi Finau (16
Field Regiment) who was awarded men’s Most Valued Player
(MVP) and SIG Robyn Williams (1 NZ Signals Regt) who was
awarded women’s MVP of the Tournament.
Faced with the earlier difficulty to recruit players due to
overseas deployments, unit exercises and courses, Southern
and Northern Regions had to combine to face the mighty
challenge from Central Zone. Another encouraging factor was
seeing players who have not played together before meet on the
court for the first time and face the opposition to win a game
with conviction. They showed the qualities of comradeship,
team spirit and encouragement which the players themselves
and the Army as a whole could be very proud of.
Due to Central Region being the only region which brought
two full teams (12 men and women) with Northern and Southern
Regions falling short of numbers , even with the draft system
enabling enough players to make teams on court, Central was
the only region eligible to compete for the Team trophies.
Nevertheless, the challenge was laid down by the Northern/
Southern Combined team right throughout the competition.
An unorthodox move by the organisers saw the draw being
changed to team captains drawing a team out of a hat for two
of the games in the competition. This was purely to allow
players to mix and encourage team spirit and for the Army team
selectors to identify players who stand out.
The final result saw Northern/Southern Combined Women
winning 3-0 against Central women and Central Men winning
And given that this was the first regional tournament since
Trentham in 2005, and the first volleyball tournament held in
Auckland, volleyball was the winner at the end of the day. The
tournament brought to the forefront some great talent from both
the women and men’s teams which made the selectors’ task of
selecting the Army teams very difficult. At the conclusion of the
tournament, the following players and officials were announced
to represent the Army Teams at the Inter-Services Volleyball
Tournament hosted by Army at Linton Camp.
Women’s team:
Coach – SSGT Gio Fortunato, Manager - LCPL Tai Poutu, CPL
Lina Saumani (Captain), CPL Aiga Mailata (Vice Captain),
Mrs Jackie Fenton, Mrs Lisa Fairbairn, CPL Faye Perelini, CPL
Hannah Tame, SIG Robyn Williams, CPL Bex Dymock, LCPL
Melissa Lusty, PTE Freda Rehua, LCPL Sarah Dunn, LCPL
Maraea Maihi.
Men’s Team:
Coach – WO2 Warren Hodge, Manager – SIG Jolie
Mansfield, LT Eric Swale (Captain), LT Glen Whitton (Vice
Captain), PTE Quinton Haerewa, SSGT Geoff Bright, LT Paul
Reed, GNR Sila Ualesi, GNR Felisi Finau, PTE Alex Akau’ola
Laula, GNR Graeme Long, SIG Faleata Pama, LCPL Luke
Woodroff, WO1 Gene Fenton, Libero - SGT Johnny Wanoa.
"AN ENCOURAGING FACTOR WAS SEEING PLAYERS Big thanks to Papakura Camp for your hospitality and to
the organising team for an unforgettable tournament. Until
WHO HAVE NOT PLAYED TOGETHER BEFORE MEET 2010, the Volleyball fraternity opens this invitation to all
ON THE COURT FOR THE FIRST TIME AND FACE THE interested players from all walks of Army life both military
OPPOSITION TO WIN A GAME WITH CONVICTION. and civilian, Regular and Territorial force to contact your
THEY SHOWED THE QUALITIES OF COMRADESHIP, Regional Code representatives if you are interested in
playing volleyball for your region or for the Army. The Army
TEAM SPIRIT AND ENCOURAGEMENT WHICH THE teams may tour Australia in 2010.
PLAYERS THEMSELVES AND THE ARMY AS A WHOLE Your code reps are:
WOULD BE VERY PROUD OF." Southern – SSgt Geoff Bright Geoff.bright@nzdf.mil.nz
3-0 against Northern/Southern/Central Combined men in the Central – LT Glen Whitton glen.whitton@nzdf.mil.nz & LT
grand finals. Paul Reed paul.reed@nzdf.mil.nz
Overall, the tournament was a success with the highlight
being the players getting the opportunity to mix and mingle Northern – W02 Warren Hodge warren.hodge@nzdf.mil.nz
& CPL Lina Saumani lina.saumani@nzdf.mil.nz
with our own Victoria Cross recipient CPL Willie Apiata VC.
 ARMYSPORT25 ISSUE 401 | 18 AUGUST 2009

INTER SERVICES VOLLEYBALL 2009

VOLLEYBALL BRINGING PEOPLE TOGETHER
The Inter Service Volleyball Tournament was held recently at
Linton Camp. Before the tournament began, a training camp
was held at Linton for the Army Men’s and Women’s teams.
This was an opportunity for those selected from the Regional
Volleyball Tournament the week before to work on rotations
and combinations for the Services tournament. Both teams
attended a competitive men’s one day tournament in Wanganui
on the Saturday, which was successful for the Army Men’s team
who went through the day undefeated and won a close game
in the final. The Army Women struggled to amass a win from
the day's play, however the five games were beneficial for team
cohesion and improvements were made by all throughout the
course of the day.
On the Monday leading into the Inter Service Tournament,
a Volleyball New Zealand Referee’s Course was run by Mr Karl
Tyrrell, New Zealand’s Referee Development Manager and top
NZ International Referee. This was attended by personnel from
both the Army and Airforce and qualifications were attained
to Regional A Refereeing Accreditation. The new Federation of
International Volleyball (FIVB) rules were implemented during
the course with technical and practical assessments throughout
the tournament.
Men’s and Women’s teams from the NZ Army, RNZN and
RNZAF assembled in Linton on Monday evening to participate in
what was to be undoubtedly one of the most competitive inter
Service tournaments in recent years. Skill levels were high and
the quality of games improved as the week progressed, seeing
both the Army Men’s and Army Women’s teams going through
round robin play unbeaten. Although going through unbeaten,
it was never underestimated that both finals would be hard
fought. Airforce women were gathering momentum as the
tournament went on and the Navy men, although having had a
tough battle against Air Force, gained their first ever finals spot
in Inter Service Volleyball history.
The first of the finals saw the reigning women’s champions,
Air Force start strongly against the Army women, winning the
first two sets of what was to be a long showdown. The Army
team gathered themselves to regain some of their previous form

A WINNER
from earlier games to fight back strongly and win the next two
sets. This set the scene for a 5th set encounter between two
very competitive teams. Air Force started the final set strong
and continued on to win the set (15 – 8) and the Inter Services
Women’s Title for 2009.

"SKILL LEVELS WERE HIGH AND THE QUALITY OF

GAMES IMPROVED AS THE WEEK PROGRESSED, SEEING
BOTH THE ARMY MEN’S AND ARMY WOMEN’S TEAMS
GOING THROUGH ROUND ROBIN PLAY UNBEATEN."
The second of the finals saw Army versus Navy challenging
for the now available men’s title. Army started the stronger of
the two, winning the first two sets against an inexperienced
but enthusiastic and very eager Navy team. The following two
sets were very close but Navy proved that they wanted the sets
more, capitalising on Army mistakes in not finishing out the
game. In the 5th set the game could have gone either way as it
was point for point and neither team were relenting. Finally the
experience of Army team broke the deadlock winning the set 17
– 15 and their third Inter Services Men’s Title.
Women’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) was: AC Hayley Ireland,
RNZAF.
Men’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) was jointly awarded to PTE
Quinton Haerewa and GNR Graeme Long both Army.

NZ Army Women’s Volleyball Team:

LCPL S Dunn (16 Fd Regt), CPL R Dymock (2ER), Mrs L
Fairbairn (2 Log Bn), Mrs J Fenton (TTS), LCPL M Lusty
(2ER), LCPL M Maihi (ARSC), CPL A.Mailata (2 Log Bn), CPL F
Perelini (HQ 2 LFG), PTE F Rehua (2/1 RNZIR), CPL L Saumani
(1 NZSAS), CPL H Tame (1 NZ SIGS REGT), SIG R Williams, 1 NZ
SIGS REGT, Coach: SSGT G Fortunato (LOTC), Manager: LCPL T
Poutu, (1 NZSAS), Strapper: LCPL L Woodruff (2 HSB (NZ))
NZ Army Men’s Volleyball Team:
PTE A Akau’ola Laula (2 Log Bn), SSGT G Bright (3 Log Bn),
WO1 G Fenton (LOTC), PTE Q Haerewa (2 Log Bn), GNR G
Long (16 Fd Regt), SIG F Pama (1 NZ SIGS REGT), LTP Reed
(1 NZ SIGS REGT), LT E Swale (NZALS), GNR M Ualesi (16 Fd
Regt), SGT J Wanoa (16 Fd Regt), LT G Whitton (HQ 2 LFG),
Coach: WO2 W. Hodge (TRSB), Manager: LCPL J. Mansfield (1
NZ SIGS REGT), Strapper: LCPL L. Woodroff (2 HSB (NZ))
The following NZ Army players were selected into the
NZDF teams for 2009 to attend the Volleyball New Zealand
National Club Championships in Christchurch this month:
Women Men
CPL A. Mailata PTE Q. Haerewa
CPl L. Saumani GNR G. Long
SIG R. Williams LT G. Whitton
26ARMYPEOPLE
ISSUE 401 | 18 AUGUST 2009
NZ SOLDIER TAKES ON
THE COMMONWEALTH
By SSGT W.F. Lewis
On 17 September 2009, SSGT Alex McKenzie (left) will embark on what he describes as the
biggest challenge in his running career.
He will be lining up with about 70 other competitors in the 24hr Ultra marathon event at
the 2009 Ultra-marathon and Mountain Running Commonwealth Championships, in Keswick,
England.
The idea of the event is simple. Run as far as you possibly can within 24 hours around a 2km
circuit.
To qualify SSGT Mckenzie ran in the NZ ultra marathon track championships in Auckland
in November 2008. He won the event and was crowned the New Zealand ultra marathon
champion. He also achieved the qualifying distance to attend the Commonwealth
Championships by exceeding 200km (or 500 laps of a 400mtr running track) in 24 hours.
A normal week’s training for SSGT Mckenzie involves around 150km running plus pool
and circuit training. He has stepped his training up over the past few months and is currently
running about 200km per week and will push that to 300km in the coming weeks, before
tapering off closer to the event.
As well as his normal training he has competed in several events during the year to test his
progress. These include the NZ 100km race. He placed second and was pleased with his race
because the run was shorter than his preferred longer distances. He completed Camp to Camp
for Canteen, a137km run from Linton to Wellington to raise money for Canteen, in just under
15 hours. He has also competed in several marathons and half marathons to help increase his
speed over shorter distances.
SSGT McKenzie’s goal for the race is to challenge the current NZ ultra marathon record of
247km. To do this he will need to run around 5m 40sec km pace (13m20sec RFL pace) for the
24hrs.
SSGT McKenzie is grateful to 6 Hauraki Battalion for the support it have given him as he
leads up to the event. He has also been assisted by a grant from the Singapore Fund which
has helped him raise the $10,000 required to attend the event.
During the race Macca’s support crew will be made up of members of the Scots Guards
Regiment, British Army. Macca served with the Guards for 6 years before joining the NZ Army.
They are excited with the opportunity to support him at the event.
SSGT’s Mckenzie’s dedication towards his chosen sport and his work at 6 Hauraki Battalion
consumes much of his time. His commitment towards both is unfailing.
He attributes a lot of his running success to his career in the Army. Being in a physically and
mentally demanding job has made the demands of ultra-marathon a little easier to deal with.
“You have to be in the right head space to succeed in ultra and twenty plus years of service
have certainly helped with that”

Up…and over: Cyclocross entrant Tom Hirst during the inaugural event.

CYCLOCROSS ARRIVES IN WELLINGTON

By Major Rob Te Moana
A lone Army Cycling Cyclocross entrant braved a challenging
course during the inaugural Bike Hutt Cyclo-cross on Saturday 4
July in Upper Hutt.
With a modified road bike that included a fixed wheel setup,
Tom Hirst, from Logistic Executive, completed a demanding
1.5km course in a 45 min race that required riders to complete
as many laps in the allocated time.
With up to 40 competitors from throughout the Hutt Valley
and Wellington region, riders were challenged by a demanding
course that required them to negotiate obstacles and hills
while riding and carrying their bikes, and negotiate sharp and
slippery bends. The event, which was organised by local Bike
Hutt owner, Mike Anderson, challenged both roadies, runners
and mountain bikers to a course that required riders to be
competent in transitioning in and out of road and mountain
biking and running.
Even some A and B grade road riders found themselves
taken out of their comfort zones and bringing up the rear of the
bunch. “It was a demanding course not helped by having a fixed
wheel which I may need to re-consider next time,” said Tom.
“However it was thoroughly enjoyable both competitively as
well as socially.”
"THE EVENT, ORGANISED BY MIKE ANDERSON,
CHALLENGED BOTH ROADIES, RUNNERS AND MOUNTAIN
BIKERS TO A COURSE THAT REQUIRED RIDERS TO BE
COMPETENT IN TRANSITIONING IN AND OUT OF ROAD
AND MOUNTAIN BIKING AND RUNNING."
So what is Cyclocross? Cyclocross (sometimes cyclocross,
CX, CCX, cyclo-X or 'cross') is a form of bicycle racing. Races take
place typically in the autumn and winter and consist of as many
laps over a short course featuring pavement, wooded trails,
grass, steep hills and obstacles requiring the rider to quickly
dismount, carry the bike whilst navigating the obstruction
and remount in one motion. Races are generally between 30
minutes and an hour long, with the distance varying, depending
on the ground conditions.
Cyclocross has parallels with cross-country cycling and
criterium road racing. Cyclocross bikes are more like road bikes
than mountain bikes, though they do usually have knobbier
tires and cantilever brakes that help keep mud and leaves, etc.,
from getting clogged up in them. They have to be lightweight
because competitors need to carry their bicycle to overcome
barriers/hurdles or slopes too steep to climb in the saddle. The
sight of competitors struggling up a muddy slope with bicycles
on their shoulders is the classic image of the sport, although
unrideable sections are generally a very small part of the race
distance. The sport is strongest in the traditional road cycling
countries, in particular in Europe and America.
Further details, including other 2009 events and for those
interested in competing for Army in events later in the year
can be found on the Army Cycling NZDF Intranet Homepage
at: http://communities/Sport/ArmyPages/Sport/Cycling/
Homepage.aspx
 ARMYSPORT27
WN 09-0004-58

ISSUE 401 | 18 AUGUST 2009

ON

A BIT OF MUD HAS NEVER WORRIED A SOLDIER, AND NOT DID IT CAUSE ANY CONCERN WHEN THE
WARM-UP MATCH PRIOR TO THE LONE PINE CONTEST BETWEEN 1 RNZIR AND 2/1 RNZIR WAS
HELD EARLIER THIS MONTH. HERE PTE MALUA TUPAI IS TACKLED BY TPR MAFUTAGU SIAFOLAU.
PROVIDING BACKGROUND SUPPORT IS LCPL IERU PUNEFU. MORE STORIES AND PHOTOS ON THE
LONE PINE CONTEST WILL FEATURE IN SEPTEMBER’S ARMY NEWS. PHOTO: SSGT EDDIE PAKU.
 OUR PEOPLE:
MEDICAL OFFICER CAPTAIN KATIA HAYES
TENDS A YOUNG PATIENT IN
BAMIYAN, AFGHANISTAN.
WN 09-0026-46