Army News Issue 367 - the New Zealand Army

www.army.mil.nz
ISSUE 367
armynews
A WORLD CLASS ARMY THAT HAS MANA
WN 06-0311-02
14 November 2006
rUMB LE
IN
IN THE
INSIDE
BUDGETING FOR CHRISTMAS 02
TACTICAL SHOTGUNS
THE BALKANS
03
05/07
JUNGLE
08
THREE SERVICES AS ONE FORCE, BEING THE BEST IN EVERYTHING WE DO
cmyk
02news
SERVING NEW ZEALAND LOYALLY AND HONOURABLY
World first for Linton
sim centre
WN 06-0034-95
Financial planning for Christmas
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armynews
Established 10 August 1959
The Army News is published fortnightly for the Regular and Territorial
Force and civilian staff of the New Zealand Army.
Editor: Lorraine Brown
phone 04-496-0225 or DTelN 349-7225
fax 04-496- 0290
email [email protected]
Assistant Editor: Anna Norman
phone 04-496-0224 or DTelN 349-7224
email [email protected]
Correspondents:
Linton:
Faye Lougher
Gary Parkes
Waiouru:
Pete Smithies
Hawke's Bay: Caroline Williams
Burnham:
Alison Comrie
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Editorial contributions and letters are welcomed. They may be sent direct to the Army News and do not need
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Nothing in the Army News should be taken as overriding any NZDF regulation. Readers should refer to the
relevant service publication before acting on any information given in this newspaper. ISSN 1170-4411
cut out and put on notice board
Having a great Christmas without blowing your budget
Wouldn’t we love it if it were that simple?! Because we’re all
unique it will be different for each us. Having different values
and beliefs about Christmas means that no one answer will
fit all. What may be important is to ask yourself some key
questions.
What is important about Christmas to my family and I?
• how do we like to celebrate Christmas or holidays?
• what is it we really enjoy about the Christmas/ holiday
season?
• do we like to focus more on the feast, the religious themes,
a holiday away, or gift giving?
Really think about what is important to you and your family
rather than be overtaken by media advertising of what you
should do. Even family tradition can be a bind, some people
love to carry on family tradition and others like to create
and begin their own traditions. If your preference is for a
simple affair, this will give more meaning and joy than an
elaborate event.
What is my Christmas budget?
Taking time to plan the event gives you room to think about
what you want and how you will spend your money. Many
people plan for Christmas all year with a savings account or by
purchasing gifts throughout the year at sales. If you aren’t that
kind of person, here are some suggestions:
• Make lists and stick within your budget;
• For those bigger gifts, like bicycles, consider buying secondhand, if brand new will stretch the budget too far;
• If extended family or whanau have decided Christmas is
at your house this year ask everyone to bring a plate. Some
people have trouble with this but in the interests of not
blowing your budget for the rest of the year and therefore
perhaps depriving yourself and your family of comfortable
living, it's worth doing;
• Or forget about the traditional turkey and ham and have a
good old Kiwi BBQ; or skip the big dinner altogether and have
a yummy Christmas breakfast or a simple picnic at the beach.
Christmas on credit?
This means paying Christmas off all next year at a high interest
rate. In the long run Christmas costs you more and you pay for
it all year which means you could be missing out on all sorts
of things and experiences just for the sake of a one-day event.
For some that may be worth it, for others it definitely isn’t. If
you are going to use a credit card think about taking maximum
advantage of the interest-free days.
What about the kids?
A commonly held belief is that Christmas is for the kids and
you can’t let them down. Many adults remember their own
Christmas experiences as being a let down or a disappointment
and don’t want that for their children. Alternatively, they
feel they had Christmas with all the whistles and bells, and
struggle to provide that. Anything with guilt attached to it,
probably isn’t going to feel good and may not be the best
starting point for providing a great experience for yourself or
your family. Kids love nothing more than when their parents
are happy and enjoying themselves, so remember, Christmas
is for everyone not just the kids.
Have a think about whether you’re trying to recreate or avoid
your own childhood experiences. Maybe it’s time to make
some new experiences and create great memories for yourself
and your children.
Get the kids involved in Christmas
• Encourage them to make presents, cards and decorations.
It can be fun and really cost effective. Go to your local library
or the internet for suggestions. Do it with them and they will
really love it.
• Make homemade sweets or cookies and package them up
beautifully.
• Grandparents love up-to-date photos of their grandchildren,
so take some, and arrange them on a collage or put them in
a simple frame.
Gift giving
For some people this is what it’s all about, and they struggle
to provide a better gift than previous years. If you find yourself
struggling with gift giving, particularly to your wider family or
whanau, think about:
• Pulling a name out of the hat: this means you write everyone’s
name on individual pieces of paper, and put them all in a hat
or container, and ask everyone in the family to pull out a name
(if they pull out their own name, they put it back
and try again) and buy a present for that person only. You can
set a dollar limit as well, and everyone gets one good present
each and it’s less shopping for everyone.
• $5 lucky dip: this is where you purchase a gift not worth
more than $5, wrap it up and put it in a basket or under the
tree, and when the family gets together you each have a turn
choosing a lucky dip. You can set a theme for this too and it
can be a real fun experience for the whole family.
• Agree to not give a present: if gift giving isn’t important to
you, make a family-wide agreement not to give presents, and
just celebrate the day together with food and good fun.
Giving in other ways
Christmas is often marked as a time of giving and there are
many ways to give a precious gift without running out and
spending lots of money. If you want to give in other ways, why
not consider:
• Inviting someone who you know will be alone to share your
family Christmas celebration;
• Within NZDF there will be people deployed and families at
home without Mum or Dad for Christmas. How about dropping
in on someone you know in this situation and making sure
they have company if they want it. Or send a card or email
to the person overseas and let them know you are thinking
of them;
• Drop something off to a charity that supports others
in hardship ie Foodbank, Red Cross, RNZSPCA. Many
supermarkets have collection points for these organisations.
• Find out where your local “Room At the Inn” will be held this
year and see if you can help. The local City Council Information
Centre should be able to help you with this.
• If you’re single, find out what the other singles in your
workplace are up to and if they would like to share Christmas
Day with you.
• If you’re musical, join a choir and go carol singing to spread
some Christmas cheer.
• Smile at every one – strangers, family and friends – it makes
for a brighter day all round.
Give yourself a stress-free Christmas
• Really take care of yourself and your health and wellbeing.
We can all over-indulge a little a Christmas, so make sure you
balance that with plenty of fresh air and exercise or healthy
alternatives.
• Stick to your budget and get creative about what you can
achieve on what you have got.
• Remember, children are happiest when their mums and
dads are happy and relaxed.
• If the family get-together stresses you out, don’t do it, do
what you will enjoy.
A common theme we can perhaps all relate to, is that
Christmas is about feeling good, and sharing that feeling
around as much as possible, so think about how you can best
do that.
Smiling and spreading joy is free.
Need Advice?
Local Community Services Officer
• Stu Couchman: Linton
• Carolyn Hyland: Waiouru
• Cherie Mansell: Burnham
Army Central Welfare
• John McHaffie
• Colleen Munro
• Marie Lotz
Army Welfare Resource Book
Local Budget Advice Service
Local Citizens Advice
We welcome your feedback. Email us:
Army.npf&[email protected]
or phone 347 7826.
Commanders: pass on
cut out and put on notice board
Linton military personnel using
IFACT (Indirect Fire Forward Air
Control Trainer) have been getting
to grips with upgraded software
that was installed recently. On
hand to oversee training was
Charles “Zoobie” Martin, Joint
Fires product manager/subject
matter expert from FATS (Firearms
Training Systems) in Atlanta, US.
“My role is basically to get SGT Jo Te Tau and CAPT Stephen Kupa with
input from the users to help Charles “Zoobie” Martin
improve the product and help
make it what they want. I was a forward air controller in the US Air Force and this
keeps me involved in something I care about. I see people I worked with or trained
in the Air Force, and I get to travel around the world training people”, he said.
The system is used by the military in many countries, including the US, Canada,
UK, Australia and New Zealand.
Major Colin Huston, director of the Simulation Centre, said this upgrade allows
the Army to give basic fire air control training to indirect fire controllers so they can
become familiar with the procedures for calling in close air support from rotary or
fixed wing aircraft.
“For example, in Afghanistan if they require close air support it will come from
the US A10 aircraft or AC130 gun ships or even Apache gun ship helicopters. With
this system they can become familiar with the procedures [in New Zealand] for
doing this. Now we no longer have the fast jets this is the only tool used for training
here”, said MAJ Huston.
However, MAJ Huston said the virtual training doesn’t replace controlling real
aircraft. It allows familiarisation, so when they are dealing with real aircraft the
soldiers are more familiar with the actual procedures.
“Simulation can’t replace live training but it can enhance it because you can
achieve a higher level of training in the same amount of time. The alternative is to
send soldiers overseas on courses but of course we can’t give them continuation.
They still need to go overseas for accredited courses but we can now give them
continuation when they come back.”
MAJ Huston said talking to someone in an aircraft travelling at 400kph is very
different to talking to someone on the ground. Different reference points had to be
used and the simulation centre hopes to get some pilots with fast jet experience
in to help train the soldiers using IFACT.
“The New Zealand Army is the first in the world to order the full authoring
capability to go with IFT, IFACT and WTS. They can create any computer generated
terrain to go with any new scenarios and we will have the capability to be more
responsive to unit training needs. That’s really exciting for us.”
The same company that makes IFACT also produces the Weapons Training
System (WTS) already purchased by Army, and which will be used first in Waiouru
next year.
“It is designed for simple arms training and that will be a huge support with
more training capability for the recruits going through. It will teach them how to
shoot and will also be available for experienced soldiers to keep their skills up”,
said MAJ Huston.
Reported by Faye Lougher
The Money Coach:
issue 367 14 November 2006
news03
OH 06-0569-51
Heed the need
For the first time in nearly 50 years, shotguns will appear in the
hands of New Zealand infantry soldiers.
The Army is purchasing a small number of Benelli M3 Tactical
shotguns, which are expected to deploy with 1 RNZIR and 2/1 RNZIR
soldiers on stability and security-type operations. This will be the
first time since the Malayan Emergency that shotguns have been
used in general service by infantry soldiers of the NZ Army.
Soldiers identified the need for shotguns during operations to
the Solomon Islands and East Timor this year.
Shotguns loaded with “less-than-lethal” ammunition, including
bean bag or CS gas rounds, can be used to deter rioters and other
security threats.
“The problem we have in situations of civil disorder is that
soldiers trying to keep the peace have got no response between
voice control, ‘stop, don’t do that’, and lethal use of their Steyrs
available to them; there’s nothing in the middle”, says Major
Gordon Benfell, the NZDF Small Arms Replacement Project Officer.
Shotguns are also useful in operations in and around populated
buildings. When loaded with smaller shot, shotgun fire will not
penetrate walls as readily as bullets, making them safer for
non-combatants.
MAJ Benfell explains that the shotguns enable soldiers to safely
“breach” buildings without risking civilian casualties. “If we need
to get immediate access to a building, we can take the door out
without injuring people beyond the door who aren’t necessarily
combatants. If we were to breach a door with other weapons,
anyone in the proximity beyond is in mortal danger as well.”
Once a soldier enters the building,
the shotgun’s semi-automatic facility
limits the effect of the fire.
Colonel Roger McElwain, Assistant
Chief of General Staff (development),
says the direction for the purchase
of shotguns has come from the Land
Component Commander BRIG Phil
Gibbons. “The LCC considers that a
combat shotgun and a less-than-lethal
capability is his number one priority,
and we are meeting that priority
requirement”, says COL McElwain.
The shotguns will arrive in New
Zealand in the next 6 - 12 months.
MAJ Benfell says they envision that
the shotguns would eventually appear
as secondary weapons, at a ratio of one
to two per section level.
Reported by Anna Norman
ACGS OFFICE OF STRATEGY MANAGEMENT
Winston Churchill once said; “It’s not enough that we do our best; sometimes
we have to do what’s required”. Churchill’s reflection underpins the important
attitudinal change that is needed to transform the New Zealand Army into a
world-class, combat capable force.
Chief of Army has a responsibility to prepare the Army for combat operations.
We all must make sure that our combined efforts and resources are being used
in the best way to produce a world-class, operationally focused land force that
is led, trained and equipped to win in combat. We are now examining the way
we generate the Army, train the Army, and the way we intend to fight the Army.
To move our Army from where we are now to where we need to be, we need to
undergo a transformation.
The security environment in which we must operate has changed significantly
and our Army must change to meet this new reality. Transformation will build
on all that is good and relevant, but not leave us anchored to the past because
“we have always done it that way”. Transformation is not a criticism that our
people and units are not working their hardest. Transformation relies heavily
on harnessing the established excellent qualities of our Army: a warrior culture,
good junior leadership, disciplined and hardworking people, and units with
world-class equipment.
History, even New Zealand history, provides us with many examples of forces
that have failed to transform to meet a new environment, a new threat – or an
old threat that just got smarter. Blind adherence to doctrine and process is the
enemy of military success. The essence of our military profession is to strive to
keep ourselves in the position of best advantage over potential threats. Failure to
do so will consign the force to irrelevance or an even worse outcome in a future
operational environment. A former United States Army Chief, General Shinseki,
recognised some of the attitudinal barriers to transforming the US Army and
stated to his people: “If you don’t like change, you’re going to like irrelevance
even less”.
Our profession demands that at all levels we prepare ourselves for combat; for
leaders it is your highest priority. Transformation will only be judged a success
when our normal processes act to rapidly adopt better ways of leading, training
and equipping our Army to face the new world of military operations. This has to
be generated from within all ranks, not just from the top.
YOU play an important role in making this transformation a success, as it is
through YOU that it will be achieved. The adoption of the new strategic vision of
our Army depends on you understanding this vision and being able to see the
role you take in making this change.
I invite you to take up the challenge of participating in transforming our Army
into an army that is not only prepared for the future but also a force that has
world-class combat capabilities.
Making our good Army into a great Army needs your help
WN 06-0013-78
The introduction of the Modern Apprenticeship Scheme, a
government initiative, will also be driven by the Industry Training and
Vocational Qualifications Cell. Modern Apprenticeships provide a
more flexible, relaxed and guided path to trade qualifications.
MAJ Bateman says the establishment of the cell increases the
Army’s ability to attract and retain a high standard of personnel. Being
a training organisation, he says the Army is better equipped than a
civilian organisation to develop a soldier’s career through training and
support. Plus, the Army pays for it. Soldiers who attend a Junior NCOs
course, for example, will obtain qualifications worth $6,000.
“You’ll pick up trade qualifications in your specialised area, you’ll
go through the promotion course and get leadership qualifications,
business qualifications and training qualifications, which set you up
for when you eventually leave the service.
“But you’re getting such a grab bag along the way; we’re looking
after your lifelong learning requirements and hopefully the Army is a
fun place to be, that you want to stay, because you’ve got no reason
to jump out worried that you’re not going to be qualified enough when
you finish your service.”
He says he has a few challenges ahead, to educate outside
organisations about the Army.
“Even though Army really invented training and the
systems that are used by civilian organisations, the
outside organisations don’t understand our culture very
well yet.
“It’s a matter of educating them that soldiers carrying
around packs in a training area, doing leadership tasks,
crossing bridges, carrying rifles and walking through the
night, is good development towards leadership; that
delegation, the ability to brief and give presentations
– all the things we find natural and train people for
– are sought-after skills on the outside but have
different names.”
However, he adds that the accreditation of the Army
Depot to deliver, assess and award unit standards
towards First Line Management and Adult Education and
Training, shows the Army is recognised as a provider of
quality training.
Reported by Anna Norman
WN 06-0133-04
OH 06-0570-27
MAKING A GOOD ARMY
INTO A GREAT ARMY
Civi quals for soldiers
Soldiers will now achieve civilian-recognised qualifications while
training in the Army.
The newly established Industry Training and Vocational Qualifications
(IT&VQ) cell will be run by Major Ian Bateman and Sergeant Aileen
Tough, out of Linton Military Camp.
“It will expand on the limited capability we’ve had up until this
point to recognise, manage, and administer the alignment of Army
training, and the experience that soldiers achieve in the workplace,
with civilian-recognised qualifications”, explains MAJ Bateman.
For many years, only soldiers trained in apprenticeship trades
gained civilian-recognised qualifications. Meanwhile, other valuable
skills developed during a soldier’s service, such as the ability to foster
leadership and train junior soldiers, went unrecognised – in a civilian
employer’s eyes, at least.
With the formation of the new cell, all soldiers completing a Junior
and Senior NCOs course will gain national qualifications in First Line
Management, and Adult Education and Training.
“Junior NCOs, particularly those that go on to become instructors,
can then – as they go up their rank – reuse the credits they got earlier
in their career when they step up to a higher qualification. If they stay
in the stream they can go up to the diploma level as a Senior NCO/
Warrant officer”, says MAJ Bateman.
MAJ Bateman has also identified trades whose training could be
aligned to the National Qualifications Framework. Once these trades are
aligned, soldiers in those trades will gain unit standards while training.
These trades include: supply/quartermaster, intelligence operator,
driver, chef, steward, military police officer, field engineer, and medic.
The physical training instructor and armourer trades have already
begun aligning their training to civilian training.
COLONEL TIM KEATING
cmyk
04Deployment
COURAGE, COMMITMENT, COMRADESHIP AND INTEGRITY
The 122 NZDF personnel who served with the New Zealand Provincial
Reconstruction Team (NZPRT) in Afghanistan’s Bamyan province returned home at
the end of October. This group was the eighth rotation of NZDF personnel to serve
six months as the NZPRT. The ninth rotation is already in place.
WN 06-0034-72
Bamyan women lead
the way
New graduates with Governor Habiba Sarabi
Three Afghan women were recently sworn in as police officers for the Afghanistan
National Police. The graduation ceremony was attended by members of the third
rotation of New Zealand Police to Afghanistan.
Along with 21 other male recruits, the women, Kobra, Zanib and Shufoka, had
just completed the nine-week basic training for literate students at the Bamyan
Regional Training Centre (RTC). At the graduation each new ANP female officer was
introduced by their coalition counterparts.
Getting to this stage had taken approximately five months.
“Upon arriving in Bamyan we were introduced to Nadiera, the only female in
the Bamyan Police Department, which consists of 308 soldiers and officers”, said
Inspector Perry. He manages the RTC and mentors the ANP Colonel Pieman, the
RTC Commandant.
Naderia advised Captain Dave Lawry, the New Zealand Police Contingent
Commander in Afghanistan, that a number of women were interested in joining
the Police but cultural issues prevented them from coming forward.
CAPT Lawry then consulted the Provincial Council and the Shura (Islamic
Council). He convinced them that the recruiting of woman into policing could
only bring benefits to the Province and to Muslim women. After many meetings
and much discussion, they approved woman joining the Police. They also visited
various districts in Bamyan Province announcing this decision to the community.
With the support of the Shura, Naderia arrived at the RTC with three women
who wished to become police officers. They completed their registration and
began training.
During the firearms training phase, Sergeant Lisa Pomana, senior medic with
the NZPRT, assisted the women to qualify with the AMD 65 rifle – a version of
the AK47.
The graduation was attended by a large number of dignitaries including the
Bamyan Province Governor Habiba Sarabi and General Akbar, the Bamyan
Police Chief.
Kobra received the award for top student, clearly demonstrating to all that
women could excel in a usually male-dominated course.
This is only a beginning. Other women have come forward showing their interest
in joining the police. With a more balanced police force, the ANP should be better
equipped to service Afghani women: victims, complainants and offenders.
Contributed by CAPT Dave Lawry
SGT Bunker, LCPL Locke, SSGT Laing and MAJ Misur preparing
the opium for burning
including Governor Sarabi, Colonel Namatullah, the Head of
Narcotics in Bamyan, and Colonel Rahman the Deputy Chief
of Police. With dignitaries and PRT personnel looking on, the
entire consignment of drugs was incinerated.
“The raw opium is a dark brown substance ranging in
consistency from solid blocks to an easily poured liquid.
Working in the burn pit surrounded by hundreds of millions
of dollars worth of foul smelling opium, mixed with plenty of
diesel and petrol, is an experience I’ll never forget”, said MAJ
Phil Misur, the NZPRT medical officer.
Group Captain Kevin Short, NZPRT SNO added, “While
counter narcotics is not a core task, the PRT was able to
make a valuable contribution in providing a secure venue
and expertise to ensure the disposal was completed in a
controlled and transparent manner.” Although this particular
task was out of the ordinary, it is just one example of the NZPRT
to assisting the local government to provide a more secure
environment for the people of Bamyan and Afghanistan as
a whole.
Patience a
necessary virtue
Command of the New Zealand Provincial Reconstruction
Teams (NZPRT) transferred from Captain Ross Smith (RNZN) to
myself on 23 October, when the incoming and outgoing NZPRT
held the official transition of authority (TOA) ceremony.
The parade included personnel from NZPRT 8 and 9,
NZ Police and the US Defence Forces. It was also attended
by a number of VIPs, including Provincial Governor Sarabi
and Colonel Schlatter, Commander Task Force Tiger, which
controls operations in Northern Afghanistan, including
Bamyan Province.
As I reflect on the ceremony, it reminds me of how patient
we need to be throughout our tour in Afghanistan. In an
immediate sense, we, as a contingent, have to be particularly
tolerant over the harsh winter period, which will be upon us in
a matter of weeks. The snow, ice and extreme cold will make
routine activities difficult; some of the mountain passes,
similar in height to Mt Cook, will be impassable, cutting off
areas of the Bamyan Province. With limited access, achieving
all of our objectives will be a challenge. Our winter rotation
has fewer personnel as an acknowledgement of these
winter conditions.
I left my previous post on 21 July to prepare for this
command. During those three months, I completed predeployment training, did a Command Reconnaissance to
Afghanistan, attended a Navy/Air land ops training week,
completed a five-week contingent PDT, took a few weeks’
leave, and finally finished with a five-day handover here at
Kiwi Base. I needed patience to get through all those hoops
of preparatory work, but finally I’m here.
In my speech at the TOA ceremony, I said I am both honoured
and pleased to have command of the 108-strong NZPRT 9 team
in Afghanistan. I first asked for this command three years ago,
when New Zealand made the first commitment to a PRT in
Bamyan Province. Since then, we have had nine contingent
rotations, with over 1,000 NZDF personnel having served.
In 2002 I was in Afghanistan for six months as part of
Operation Enduring Freedom, where I learnt about the
country and its history. Then, I celebrated my 25th wedding
anniversary. Now I will celebrate my 30th wedding anniversary,
working in Bamyan Province, Afghanistan. It is an interesting
measure of progress and timelines within Afghanistan.
As a professional military officer, I have learnt that we –
WN 06-0309-01
OH 06-0587-01
PTE Steven Hogan is greeted by his girlfriend Kariana after disembarking the plane
at Ohakea Air Force Base
Dealing with the unexpected has become fairly standard
for members of the NZPRT in Bamyan, but a request from the
Provincial Governor of Bamyan, Governor Sarabi, to destroy
over a tonne of raw opium as soon as possible, was one of
the more unusual occurrences since the current contingent
arrived in Afghanistan.
The haul of opium was confiscated after intelligence
indicated that a group under surveillance were moving from
neighbouring Samangahn province into Bamyan. A newly
trained team of Afghan National Police (ANP) were dispatched,
and intercepted three smugglers along a deserted road in the
remote Yakawalang District.
Superintendent John Kelly had only recently taken up his
role as mentor to the ANP when the opium was discovered.
The 30-year NZ Police veteran was somewhat taken aback
by the large quantity, and said, “It’s certainly the biggest
haul I’ve seen in my career and is a bit different from the
average couple of pounds of cannabis you might turn over
back home.”
The haul had a potential value of US$200 million and
represents a significant volume given that the average annual
seizure in Afghanistan is 400 tonnes. Afghanistan is the
world’s biggest supplier of opium with the country’s southern
Helmand province producing over 70 per cent of the world’s
total production alone. The annual US$1.3 billion profit from
opium plays a significant part in funding the ongoing Taliban
and Al Qaeda insurgency currently in Afghanistan.
The NZPRT Environmental Medicine Team, under SGT Nick
Bunker, conducted the destruction of the drugs. Utilising
personnel from the Regimental Aid Post and the petroleum
operator LCPL Chantelle Locke, a tier structure of wooden
pallets, coated with opium and liberally doused in fuel, was
constructed. The burn attracted interest from local dignitaries
WN 06-0315-05
Raw opium seized and burned
Home from Bamyan
GPCAPT Short and CAPT Smith
the military – are very good at completing tasks and getting
the results we want. However, I have also learnt that those
results can take time and, at times, those results can take
years. I think my time here in Afghanistan will reflect those
long timeframes, and that what we achieve over the next six
months may only bear fruit well after we depart. This may be
as good as we can expect. So we will have to be patient.
Nonetheless, on any measure the NZPRT has been a
resounding success. The aim remains the same as it always
has, to promote security, assist in nation building, help the
distribution of aid, and construction of new infrastructure. I
told the VIPs at the TOA ceremony that all of us here today
have worked hard to improve the situation and conditions
in Bamyan. There has been a slow but positive improvement
in all areas, throughout Afghanistan. I asked that they too
be patient and the rewards will continue to come over the
years ahead.
Right now I am chuffed to have finally taken command – it
is a delightful feeling of responsibility.
I am honoured. My patience has been rewarded.
Contributed by GPCAPT Kevin Short
deployment05
issue 367 14 November 2006
Greetings from the NZPRT Hell’s Kitchen. The
name of our kitchen reflects our sinfully good
food – not the people doing the cooking. It is our
job, as the NZPRT kitchen crew, to ensure that all
the members of the contingent are well fed, and
provided with ample choice and healthy meals.
Due to the altitude, all members must receive
the correct daily intake of calories. Some are
willing to partake in extra calories (or is this
eating for comfort?). However, before I explain
our role in the NZPRT, let me introduce you to the
hard working magicians who produce the tummyexpanding kai.
First, there’s me, Staff Sergeant Danny Dewes,
the conductor of this well-oiled machine. I can be
found at work first thing in the morning until the
last chip is fried at night. It’s my job to oversee the
day-to-day running of the kitchen,
as well as long-term planning. It
is my happy face and “get-the-job
done” attitude that makes this
kitchen the world-renowned onestop munch shop of Afghanistan.
Next there’s Leading Chef Pete
“Pedy” Kidson; he’s my number 2
or 2IC. Pete’s the man who keeps
the peace in the kitchen and on
the work floor. He has had to run
the kitchen in my absence on a
number of occasions and has
done a fine job of keeping the
food standards up – if not raising
them! Pete has done quite a few
patrols to the forward patrol bases
and has produced the odd BBQ for
Top:PTE Steve Hogan and ACH Lex Dow
the personnel down at Bagram Air
Below: PTE Steve Hogan, LCH Peter Kidson, SSGT Danny Dewes and
Force Base.
ACH Lex Dow
Next in line is Able Chef Alexis
“Lex” Dow, who, despite being Navy through and
through, wanted to watch every war movie made,
shoot anything that went bang, fly in anything
that went in the air and for some reason loved her
knives (she should have been in the Army!). Lex
is renowned for being able to make something
yummy out of nothing, judging by the comments
from the contingent personnel after every meal
she had on the slide. However, these finely made
dishes are a closely guarded secret, even from
the other chefs! Lex also went on a number of
patrols with the engineers; so many, in fact, that
she almost became their resident chef for the
rest of the tour.
Last but not least is Private Steve “Stevo”
Hogan. He’s the guy who, if he isn’t in the kitchen,
is on security duties, on patrol, at the gym or in
the pool – oops, sorry, fire-fighting reservoir.
Steve has a “can-do” attitude and has worked
hard to keep the food up to the highest
standard possible.
That’s a quick overview of the small but
effective Hell’s Kitchen crew. The other staff in
the kitchen are our four locals: Sakina, Ali Jan,
Aziz and Mohammad. Their jobs range from
cleaning the Mess Hall, washing dishes, basic
food preparation, and cooking certain foods.
Sometimes the language barrier created minor
issues but we managed to get our point across
in the end.
To date, we have made 85 birthday and
farewell cakes, including six 21st birthday cakes.
Two were for Lex and Stevo.
During the last six months our chefs have
provided the NZPRT and coalition forces with
hearty meals and morning teas, including the
traditional Sunday roast lamb, and chocolate
self-saucing pudding, mince pies, and cakes
WN 06-0034-77
Life in the Balkans
International Night
Many people have served here in Bosnia since New
Zealand began contributing troops to the various UN, IFOR,
KFOR, SFOR and EUFOR missions over 10 years ago.
Currently serving within Bosnia there are two missions.
One comprises eight personnel (a captain, lieutenant,
warrant officer, three senior NCOs and two junior NCOs),
based in a Liaison and Observation Team (LOT) house in
Prijedor, approximately 45 minutes northwest of Banja Luka
(capital of the Republica Serbska). The Kiwi LOT house is
held in high regard and is often used as the model house for
visiting VIPs.
The LOT performs what would ordinarily be routine battle
group patrolling: going out into their local communities
and feeling the pulse of the people and creating links with
key people and organisations eg, police, religious leaders,
local municipalities. This was of particular importance given
the recent general election, the first held by the Bosnian
authorities without assistance from the international
community, who only provided observers throughout
the process.
The second mission comprises three staff officers (one
major and two captains), who are based at the Banja Luka
Metal Factory (BLMF). Two of those officers work within the
LOT HQ organisation.
EUFOR is made up of a number of countries including
Britain (lead nation in this AO), Holland, Norway, Chile,
Romania, Bulgaria, Slovenia, Switzerland, and Austria in this
AO alone. Across the whole of Bosnia, France, Italy, Germany,
Spain, Greece, and Turkey, Poland, Finland, Estonia, Belgium,
Canada, Czech Republic, Belgium, Denmark, Hungary, Latvia,
Lithuania and Portugal also contribute towards the 6,000
troops in theatre.
As I write this article, the new LOT team is receiving their
handover so we have the most Kiwis we can get at any one
time – all 19 of us!
Recently the battle group changed over so we farewelled
2 Yorks (the Green Howards) and welcomed 1 Welsh Guards.
As with all British units, they have a distinct unit culture and
it is standard procedure to call their soldiers by their name
and a number, such as “Jones 90”, as there are quite a few
Joneses in the regiment. The upside of their arrival is that
the emphasis on soccer has subsided somewhat and an
appreciation for rugby has increased. I have even seen a
group of the Welsh Guards playing touch rugby.
We have bumped into many characters over here, including
the core of Fijian soldiers, many of whom have not been home
for at least three years but swear that they don’t mind the
freezing cold and grey British weather, let alone the Bosnian.
Both New Zealand missions are exceptionally lucky with
their facilities in camp and at their LOT house. Being part
of a multinational coalition certainly has its advantages but
there are just as many obstacles to overcome, and these raise
frustration levels on a regular basis. The British Forces can
certainly consider themselves lucky when it comes to welfare
provisions and operational leave.
The weather is just about to change from summer to
winter (literally a very sudden seasonal change), with little
effect of autumn to speak of. Morale is pretty good, despite
constant banter from the Brits and Dutch about our accents
and distinct lack of vowels. Our black Kiwi caps give us our
degree of individuality and, as in most theatres that the NZDF
contributes to, the New Zealand footprint far exceeds the
troops we actually have on the ground.
We all hope time continues to pass as quickly, as our first
two-and-a-half months have; we are (kind of) looking forward
to a white Christmas, a quick January then return to New
Zealand in early February for many of us.
Contributed by CAPT Julia Leckey
For more about life in the Balkans see page 7
and biscuits for morning tea. Theme nights have
included good old fish and chips wrapped in
paper and, of course, the regular Fat Boy Fridays.
And we didn’t forget our National Support
Element counterparts in Bagram; the odd fresh
bread, biscuits and cakes would make the 40minute flight down to them in the morning and
still be warm in time for their breakfast.
The experience we have gained from our
deployment here in Afghanistan has given us all
a wealth of knowledge and friendship that will
remain with us for years to come.
Having handed over Hell's Kitchen to the next
rotation, we'd like to thank a few people. The
Workshop and Sup Q personnel, who dropped
their tools at a moment’s notice to help unload
ration trucks or fix anything broken in the
kitchen, let us use their vehicle, and gave us
great movie nights.
A big thanks to all the Kiwi Base personnel
who helped unload the weekly ration trucks and
helped with the nightly fatigues after dinner;
the engineers, for looking after my chefs when
on patrol and almost building a completely
new kitchen for us; and PTE Du Plessis who was
almost – but not quite – our regimental chef,
coming in to help with the odd Friday night buffet
or cook stir fry for lunch. To anyone else we have
forgotten: thank you.
One last big thank you goes to my three
Hell’s Kitchen chefs. Without their unwavering
dedication and hard work, despite the 55-degree
heat of the kitchen and endless unannounced
coalition forces personnel showing up at our
doorstep wanting a meal, our troops here in
Afghanistan would never have eaten as well as
they did.
Contributed by SSGT Danny Dewes
More stores for hospital
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Six months in Hell’s Kitchen
MAJ Misur and Chief Medical Officer Dr Ghulam Nadir outside Bamyan Provincial
Hospital
A team from the newly arrived NZPRT
had their first official visit to Bamyan
Provincial Hospital, to distribute
stores, meet the staff, and have a look
at the hospital's facilities.
The Bamyan Provincial Hospital
has been undergoing a process of
expansion over several years, with
considerable input from the NZPRT,
mainly in the form of construction of
new buildings, including the Obstetric
Department. The department has
steadily increased its presence and
reputation within the local area. It now
averages over 80 deliveries a month,
and with NZPRT support, a midwifery
school has been established within
the hospital grounds.
Medical officer Major Phil Misur
said, “The contribution that this
hospital makes to the health of the
local community is enormous. Since
the start of New Zealand’s involvement
in the Bamyan region, the NZPRT has
strongly supported the expansion of
hospital services, and the efforts to
improve the quality of those services”.
MAJ Misur has been a Territorial Force
artillery officer for 12 years. He left
the Royal Perth Hospital, where he
was a consultant radiologist, to take
up the position of medical officer for
this deployment.
The stores delivered included
medications such as antibiotics,
respiratory drugs, intravenous fluids
and dressings. To support the Obstetrics
Department and the Paediatric Unit, a
box of merino singlets were handed
over. They were donated by Mr Hugh
Douglas, managing director of Weft
Knitwear in Christchurch, who has
been a longstanding supporter of the
NZPRT and the people of Bamyan. The
singlets will be given to children on
discharge from the hospital and will
prove invaluable during the impending
winter months. A number of pairs of
glasses were also given to the hospital
for distribution to local people. These
were donated by the Anglican Women
in New Zealand.
cmyk
06our people
SERVING NEW ZEALAND LOYALLY AND HONOURABLY
OH 06-0609-58
OH 06-0609-03
Armistice Day Wellington
Members of the guard inside the memorial
stepping up
OH 06-0609-54
OH 06-0609-53
PTE Holly Hermansen keeps vigil at the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior
Congratulations to the following personnel
on their recent promotion:
DATE
SERVICE NO RANK NAME
17-Jul-06
N1011000
P1010541
B1007309
D1006667
K56014
Q1016384
M993634
R55629
S996514
G1010396
Q1015740
G1015525
P180379
F994709
R998790
E1007381
M996003
J749785
1-Sep-06
19-Sep-06
16-Sep-06
28-Sep-06
1-Oct-06
1-Oct-06
9-Oct-06
13-Oct-06
15-Oct-06
17-Oct-06
18-Oct-06
19-Oct-06
19-Oct-06
20-Oct-06
27-Oct-06
31-Oct-06
31-Oct-06
CPL
CPL
LCPL
CAPT
LTCOL
LCPL
SSGT
SGT
SGT
LCPL
LCPL
LCPL
SSGT
SGT
CPL
CPL
MAJ
MAJ
DM
HA
RR
MA
GA
PL
J
KB
L
MH
LA
JT
CW
JC
GJ
DNL
RSK
SG
WAIWAI
CARSTAIRS
HEATHER
SCHMID
MOTLEY
SNELSON
KAHUKIWA
MATENA
VERLANDER
OHLSON
TAUTI
JOYNT
JORDAN
HARRIS
SHANKS
PATTERSON
MCCULLOUGH
JOHNS
CDRE Bruce Pepperell, BRIG Barry Vryenhoek and GPCPT Peter Randerson
WN 06-0311-11
Expat veteran recognised
The 88th anniversary of the signing of the Armistice was
marked by wreath laying ceremony at the National War
Memorial in Wellington on Saturday 11 November.
The ceremony, which included a dawn to dusk vigil over
the Tomb of the Unknown Warrior, was attended by New
Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) personnel and the Governor
General of New Zealand the Honourable Anand Satyanand
and Susan Satyanand.
A Guard of Honour, and catafalque guards comprising
personnel from the Army, Navy and Air Force paraded in
support of the ceremony. The National Anthem, a bugle
fanfare, reveille and the last post was played by the Central
Band of the RNZAF.
Vice Chief of Defence Force, Air Vice-Marshal David
Bamfield, laid a wreath on behalf of the men and women of
the NZDF. He said, “This ceremony today commemorates the
sacrifice of those who died serving New Zealand in the First
World War and all subsequent wars.
“The Great War of 1914-1918 was one of the most devastating
events in human history. New Zealand, with a population of 1.1
million in 1914, sent 100,000 men and women abroad. 16,700
died and over 40,000 were wounded – a higher per capita
casualty rate than any other country involved.”
Armistice Day is the anniversary of the official end of World
War I, 11 November, 1918. It commemorates the armistice
signed between the Allies and Germany for the cessation of
hostilities on the Western Front, which took effect at the 11th
hour of the 11th day of the 11th month.
The Wellington event preceded the dedication of the New
Zealand Memorial in Hyde Park, London, which was attended
by thousands of New Zealanders including a large contingent
of Army, Navy and Air Force personnel.
A full report from the events of Armistice Day in London will
be in the next issue of Army News.
who is where?
overseas training Programme - nz personnel overseas
NAME
UNIT
COURSE
LOCATION
CAPT BEN BAGLEY
16 Fd Regt
Battery Commanders Course
Royal School of Artillery, Larkhill, UK
CAPT CHRIS KELLY
16 Fd Regt
Battery Commanders Course
Royal School of Artillery, Larkhill, UK
Mutual assistance programme - overseas army personnel in NZ
Mr Kirk Logie, who served in the NZ Army during WWII and now lives in the
US, received his Year of the Veteran badge and certificate from Veterans’ Affairs
Minister, the Hon Rick Barker, at the New Zealand Embassy in Washington, DC.
Mr Logie served with 25 Battalion in Italy during WWII.
NAME
COUNTRY
COURSE
LOCATION
WO2 TEAU ‘ATUGI’I
MO’UNA ‘ISITOLO
Tonga
All Arms Advanced Training
Management Course
The Army Depot, Waiouru
CAPT TEVITA SIU FIFITA
Tonga
All Arms Advanced Training
Management Course
The Army Depot, Waiouru
issue 367 14 November 2006
My time in Bosnia
WN 06-0034-78
Dave Dobbyn plays "Loyal" to all the veterans and Defence personnel not long before landing at Brize Norton
WN 06-0311-18
The All Blacks made a special visit to the New Zealand
Memorial at Hyde Park Corner before it was officially unveiled
at the weekend, on Armistice Day.
“We can’t attend the dedication of the New Zealand
Memorial on Armistice Day because we’ll be playing France”,
said All Blacks captain Richie McCaw. “But we’re pleased to
get a preview instead.”
In the early 1990s the former
Socialist Republic of Yugoslavia
was torn apart by conflict. Over a
decade on, the wounds may be
healing but the new nation states
of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo,
Montenegro, Serbska, Macedonia,
Croatia, Slovenia and Serbia still face
many of the problems at the roots of
the conflict.
Major Nick Sinclair was a Senior
National Officer in Bosnia from
March through to August this year.
Along with the other two staff officers
contributing to the European Union Force (EUFOR), and the eight members of the
Liaison and Observation Team (LOT), he spent five months living among the ethnic
tension that reverberates throughout the region.
“[Bosnians] consider recent history the 15th century, so they’re still grinding
those axes. Maybe not grinding them – but they’re not letting the rust form on the
axe either. For every person that may say, ‘why are you still here, we’re not still
killing each other?’, there’ll be another two who will be saying, ‘if you guys weren’t
here, it could start up again very easily’.”
However, he said the situation had improved noticeably during the last 10 years.
While there was still a discernable “edge” in Bosnia, Bosnians were now much
more relaxed and want to move on. The EUFOR was encouraging this, he said,
weaning them off their dependency on the EUFOR by pushing them to come up
with “Bosnian solutions for Bosnian problems”.
MAJ Sinclair said the New Zealand Defence Force’s contribution to the operation
was highly valued by the multi-national EUFOR.
“We do make a difference over there. The Kiwis are really well regarded; they
like our laid-back attitude, and we are able to offset our apparent casualness with
being very professional and hardworking. That wins us a lot of friends.”
Working in the Joint Intelligence Operations Centre, he worked with personnel
from Holland, Bulgaria, Romania, the UK, Switzerland, Canada and Chile. He
said there were tensions between some of the nations, stemming from European
history, and as a Kiwi he was often called upon to act as an intermediary. “We get
on with everyone.”
As SNO, MAJ Sinclair was involved in co-ordinating activities for the LOT sector
HQ, and processing the information gathered. It was open source information
gathering, from the opening of a new mosque which could attract 5,000 people,
to commemorating one of the more infamous concentration camps. EUFOR
were informed to be prepared to either attend or manage any conflicts that may
have arisen.
“It really is a beautiful country, but it’s often treated by the Bosnians like a
big rubbish tip; there is rubbish everywhere. It has beautiful rivers, but all the
trees are hung up with plastic bags, or you see an eddy that is full of plastic drink
bottles. Being a fisherman, you see beautiful big fish, beautiful fishing spots, but
then upstream you’ll see them emptying the septic tank into the river containers
– it’s heartbreaking.”
There are other visual reminders throughout Bosnia, like burnt-out buildings
and minefields, and many of the small villages still live in high levels of poverty.
However, Bosnians are slowly starting to tidy up the war-torn country, and MAJ
Sinclair’s outlook on Bosnia is optimistic.
Once the mines are removed, Bosnia’s excellent ski fields – made popular
by the 1984 Winter Olympics, in Sarajevo – will encourage tourists to return to
the region.
“Bosnia has beautiful white-water rafting rivers, good fishing and hunting, and
great skiing.”
The success of neighbouring Croatia also provides a measure of hope to the
tourism industry. “Croatia has a beautiful shoreline and their tourism industry is
doing really well, it is just so far ahead [of Bosnia].
“Bosnia is on a bit of a cusp, if it can just move away from the past it would have
so much potential.”
When the All Blacks played France on Armistice Day they
wore an embroidered poppy on the sleeve of their test
jerseys, continuing the tradition of honouring those New
Zealand service men and women who have given their
lives overseas.
“The team always wants to honour the overseas service of
New Zealanders”, said Mr McCaw. “It is an important part of
our history, as a country and a team.”
Brigadier Paul Southwell, New
Zealand’s London-based Defence Advisor,
spoke to the team about the close and
longstanding military links New Zealand
enjoys with the United Kingdom, both
past and present.
The 250-strong New Zealand Defence
Force (NZDF) contingent to London left
New Zealand on two RNZAF Boeing 757s.
Dave Dobbyn, who sung at the Armistice
Day ceremony, travelled to London with
the official contingent.
Arriving in London the contingent
were kept busy rehearsing for the event,
including a full-dress rehearsal at the
site, prior to the official ceremony.
Sergeant Mike Te Hau was captivated
by the white-coloured crucifix design
atop each of the stands. “If you look
at them from a distance, it looks like
they’re floating in the air,” he said. The
crucifix device symbolises New Zealand
war graves.
Leading Aircraftman Ryan Woodley was
impressed by the New Zealand symbols
on the memorial, including a fern leaf, a
farmer, Anzac poppies and a rugby ball.
“What struck me most was that some of
the bronze is laid out in the shape of the
Southern Cross”, he said. “I thought it
said a lot about us as a people.”
The New Zealand Memorial at Hyde Park
was dedicated by Her Majesty the Queen
on Armistice Day, 11 November. Thirtytwo veterans from various campaigns,
over 250 NZDF personnel, the Duke
of Edinburgh and other members of
the Royal Family, political figures and
celebrities from the United Kingdom and
New Zealand, and over 1,500 members of
the public attended the event.
All Blacks Jerry Collins and Piri Weepu inspect the sporting standard, one of the 16 in
A full report on the ceremony will be in
the New Zealand Memorial at Hyde Park Corner
the next Army News.
WN 06-0311-17
AK 06-0478-18
History here
and now
our people07
MAJ Nick Sinclair with daughter Helene, showing her classmates Bosnia, where Dad
was based
cmyk
COURAGE, COMMITMENT, COMRADESHIP AND INTEGRITY
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Go Jal
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08EXERCISE
more on the enhanced basic
a
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c
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“Jalan Jungle” or “Go Jungle” was a skill well-practiced by soldiers who served in South East Asia during
the NZ Army’s three decades there. Recently, AARC 338, the Enhanced Basic, spent five days learning
and practising the skills of operating in close country.
The recruits were trucked to Rangataua Forest, a flat lahar terrace
with beech and eucalyptus plantings, 20km west of Waiouru.
At mid-morning, the recruits set off from their drop-off point
to clear their area of operations. A harbour was established four
kilometres away from the drop-off point with sentries posted, area
defences established and sleeping areas cleared.
The next morning they were up early, packing their kit in the pitchdark before stand-to at first light, and then setting off for another
day of patrolling.
Exercise Jalan Jungle is the first of three additional field exercises
the 22-week Enhanced Basic recruit course undertakes. The
exercise aims to teach individuals close country skills: observation;
navigation; patrol discipline; silent movement; hand signals;
maintaining contact in dense bush; action on halts; and finding
water points. During patrolling, conducted under the supervision of
corporal instructors, recruits practiced their navigation skills.
The recruits also practiced individual drills for reacting to enemy fire. Later in the exercise
they used TESS (Tactical Engagement Simulation System) lasers on their rifle barrels to test the
accuracy of their fire, and TESS sensors on their clothing to hone their reaction times.
“We learnt to live and move quietly and on the third day we even managed to get within 20
metres of a big stag”, said Sapper Archer.
“By keeping quiet ourselves, we got to hear a lot of bush noises”, added Signaller Dunbar.
“Possums can be pretty noisy at night.”
“The recruits performed well”, said Major Terry O’Neill, OC Rec Coy. “Even though this cold,
wet bush country did not provide the sweltering heat of the Kota Tinngi Dry Training Area,
Exercise Jalan Jungle introduced them to the individual field craft skills required to operate
effectively in that environment.”
Reported by John Archer
g
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issue 367 14 November 2006
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gle
A. GNR Phillips seen through dense foliage. The
recruits were taught not to look at the vegetation
surrounding them, but through it
B. SPR Trenor and PTE Spring on their fifth day of
patrolling
C. PTE Mence moves at speed into cover
D. Firing at a pop-up DART target (at top-right)
E. SIG Davis firing from cover
F. The TESS laser on the barrel tests the firer’s
accuracy, and the TESS sensors on his body
records hits by the enemy
G. SIG Davis firing before taking cover from
enemy fire
e
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H. PTE Mence keeping an eye on his allocated
arc of fire while eating lunch
d
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h
Battlefield tour of Te Porere
AARC 338, the Enhanced Basic, recently conducted a battlefield site
tour of Te Porere Redoubt, which is located mid-way between National
Park and Turangi.
The visit was a culmination of a series of New Zealand military history
lessons presented to recruits by Army Museum staff.
The recruits also gained an insight into the military and social issues
preceding the attack on Te Porere on 4 October, 1869 and into the legacy
of those issues 137 years later.
A novel approach to generating interest, on the day preceding the
visit the course platoon commander LT Wirimu-Smith presented orders
on behalf of the attacking side (LT COL McDonnell) and the platoon
sergeant, SGT Holden, presented orders on behalf of the defending
side (Te Kooti).
Mr Ian Topham, from the Army Museum, also brought a selection of
period weaponry such as a Terry Carbine and bayonet for the recruits to
handle, and provided intimate details of the main antagonists.
Many of the recruits expressed a genuine interest in the military
history module, particularly the visit to Te Porere.
Accompanied by Rec Coy and Army Museum staff, recruits inspect the
lower redoubt at Te Porere
cmyk
10news
Out on the edge
WN 06-0034-85
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Shots ring out again
COL Lofty Hayward opens the test firing tunnel
On the water at Albert Town
WN 06-0034-89
Soldiers of 4th Otago Southland
Battalion group were recently put
through their paces during adventure
training in Wanaka.
The two-day Exercise Tartan Fling
brought together soldiers from
Invercargill’s Southland Platoon and
the Dunedin-based Otago Platoon
for adventure activities such as rock
climbing, abseiling and kayaking.
2LT Rob Paterson says it was
encouraging to see how patrol
procedures were incorporated in the
activities, which aimed to provide
physical, moral and intellectual
challenges while strengthening
unit cohesion.
He says it was great to see the
troops develop leadership skills,
learn to assess risk, and develop team
skills in a challenging environment
– from a vertical Wanaka cliff face to
the swiftly flowing Clutha River.
The soldiers’ consensus was that
as well as learning how everyone
acts under pressure, they had a lot
of fun.
Contributed by Larry White
WN 06-0034-86
PTE Harry Saunderson Warner and 2LT Rob Paterson
L-R: PTE Van Niekerk, PTE Saunderson Warner, PTE Embling, PTE Wastney, PTE Merriman,
PTE Parkinson, PTE Hollands
With a burst of fire, Colonel Lofty Hayward recently reopened the Test Fire
Tunnel at 2 Wksp Coy in Linton Military Camp.
The tunnel was closed more than two years ago when it no longer complied
with Army and OSH regulations. Since then armourers have been unable to return
repaired weapons to their customers as quickly as they would like. Weapons have
been held until there were enough to allow a trip to Waiouru or Trentham to do
the test firing.
SSGTs Gareth Collings, DC Millar and Steven Jackson have worked hard to
ensure the tunnel reopened. As a special initiative, LCPL Lincoln Thompson and
Mr Graeme Tavendale built and installed the cradle of the L4A1 tripod that now
allows for the firing of the C9, Mag-58 and L7A2. The tunnel is able to be used for
9mm, 5.56mm and 7.62mm ammunition, including weapon firing on automatic.
COL Hayward said he was very pleased with the resolution of the problems,
as it will allow 2 Wksp Coy to provide a timely and efficient level of service to its
customers. The tunnel enables the armourers to replicate and isolate weapon
faults and complete the repairs more easily.
Contributed by 2LT Tony Warren AGE Platoon Commander
Attracting top recruits
to drill, physical training, basic navigation, the assault course and
barrack life as a recruit. Most activities are competition-orientated
to create a teamwork environment, which is crucial to almost any
facet of a military career. Staff involved in the SWE are rewarded for
their efforts by observing sections develop confidence throughout
the week.
Each trade/corps that participates in SWE has the opportunity to
sell their job to those who are, effectively, the next batches of recruits.
Previous SWE have shown that units who put in the best possible
effort provide recruiters with more applicants, ensuring that corps/
trades attract the highest quality and quantity of recruits.
Ideally, recruiters say, the person giving the presentation should
be a younger soldier/JNCO, as they seem to relate well to students,
providing realistic information and personal experiences. The
presenter will have a true passion for their job, inspiring students to
consider careers that they may never have before.
About 80 percent of students who attend SWE throughout New
Zealand apply for a career in the NZ Army within a year.
To all units who made the most of the opportunity to present to
students, CRR thanks you for your efforts and we, as part of the
NZ Army “team”, will be working hard to provide you with the best
possible recruits.
CRR would also like to pass on thanks and congratulations to WO1
Lenny Wills who is moving on to become RSM of the “Haurakis” in
Tauranga. Thanks for your leadership, advice, and for keeping your
finger on the pulse. UBIQUE.
Contributed by SSGT Greg Molloy
WN 06-0311-22
WN 06-0311-13
Central Region recruiters congregated in Waiouru at the end of
September to host their annual Student Work Experience (SWE).
Year 12 and 13 students from secondary schools within the Central
Region – from Taranaki, across to the East Coast and south to
Wellington – travelled to Waiouru to get a week long taste of “Army
life” and learn about career opportunities in the service.
SWE allows recruiters to closely observe likely applicants, learn the
latest handshake or saying, and catch up with colleagues. Students
attend presentations on trades within the NZ Army and question
trades people on all aspects of their job, from “what qualifications
do I need?” to “what is the worst part of your job?”. Students are
provided honest and realistic information to assist them to make an
informed decision about their career.
During the week students are split into sections and are exposed
SGT Henry McEwan explains the 203 (grenade launcher)
SGT Filmer explains the capabilities of the NZLAV to SWE students
11
OH 06-0601-96
OH 06-0605-13
issue 367 14 November 2006
161 Battery Guns are fired during the performance of the 1812 Overture
MILITARY PAGEANT ROCKS
hovering in the swirling winds over the pitch. Once the soldiers were
on the ground, a battle ensued between two groups at opposite ends
of the pitch involving NZLAVs and artillery fire. Booming artillery fire
reverberated around the stadium, with fireworks and coloured smoke
bombs adding to the effects.
Other highlights were an amusing performance by the New Zealand
Army Band, the Royal New Zealand Navy Band with its medley of big
band classics featuring an Elvis look-alike in a white cape, and a NZ
Police Dog display involving an exploding toilet.
There was plenty of time for reflection. A special salute to the
Year of the Veteran and the RNZRSA 90th anniversary included the
moving song A Pittance of Time performed by blind Canadian singer
Terry Kelly.
Fireworks and artillery fire featured again as part of the 1812
Overture, performed by the massed brass and military bands, and
accompanied by the Tawa College Choir.
The evening finale saw the massed bands and an NZDF Royal
Guard Of Honour, with accompanying soloist Hinewehi Mohi, perform
Pokarekare Ana and Now is the Hour.
Reported by Ally Clelland
OH 06-0605-14
OH 06-0605-12
Wellington’s Westpac Stadium was rocked with the sound of shell
fire and fireworks as part of a spectacular musical military pageant
held to mark the Year of the Veteran and the 90th anniversary of the
Royal New Zealand Returned and Services’ Association (RNZRSA).
More than 800 performers took part in the pageant, including New
Zealand Defence Force bands, New Zealand Police bands, the City of
Wellington Pipe Band, Tawa and Districts Highland Pipe Band, and the
Tawa College Choir.
One of the highlights of the evening was a simulated battle which
started with four soldiers rappelling down from an Iroquois helicopter
THE STADIUM
OH 06-0601-27
Fireworks bursting over the stadium as the bands bring the
1812 Overture to a close
OH 06-0601-73
OH 06-0601-61
Veterans parade through the streets of inner city Wellington
The New Zealand Army band performs a haka during a performance
that wowed the crowd
The New Zealand Police dogs put on a display for the crowd
NZLAVs in the simulated battle
cmyk
12NEWS
COURAGE, COMMITMENT, COMRADESHIP AND INTEGRITY
ARMY CENTRAL
WELFARE FUND AND
NON-PUBLIC FUNDS
ANNUAL REPORT SUMMARY
During 2005/06, Army Central Welfare (ACWF), through its holiday home
network, sponsored group discount schemes, welfare grants and loans, continued
to provide real value for Regular Force and civilian employees.
Army leave centres
The Army leave centres provided 8,635 nights of accommodation during
2005/06. Hanmer was occupied 85 percent of the time; Napier 84 percent;
Wanaka 79 percent; Acacia Bay 74 percent; Waikanae and Mount Maunganui 73
percent; Akaroa 71 percent; Rotorua 68 percent; Wanganui 61 percent; Nelson 60
percent; and Turangi 58 percent.
Current upgrades
Two major projects began this year, and are well underway. The Acacia Bay
units at Taupo are being fully refurnished, and 2 Engr Regt apprentices are
building an additional unit off-site for the Waikanae Leave Centre. The improved
facilities are expected to be in operation for the 2006/07 Christmas holidays/
summer season.
The exteriors of the Mt Maunganui and Rotorua leave centres were repainted.
Next
During 2007 the main focus of the refurbishment programme will be on the
South Island, with Akaroa a priority for a complete internal refit. Works are also
planned for Hanmer, Nelson and Wanaka. Options for meeting the demand for a
leave centre in the Auckland region will continue to be explored.
Group benefits
The ACWF-sponsored Army Group Life Insurance Plan, the NZDF Health Insurance
Plan and the NZDF Banking and Home Loan Package are available to all members.
These arrangements assist Army employees and their families to manage their life
insurance risk with Sovereign, their health insurance risks with Southern Cross
and obtain concessionary home loan interest rates and other banking facilities
from the National Bank.
Army Non-Public Funds
Army Non-Public Funds provides a collective banking service for the variety of
Army non-public fund organisations. These funds are invested in fixed-interest
investments and loans to qualifying Army employees. Interest earned is paid
monthly to the Army NPF organisations. With an end-of-year bonus payment, the
return to members was 6.25 percent for 2005/06.
NPF Personal Loan Scheme
This scheme provides Army personnel with access to personal loans at lower
interest rates than those charged by banks and other lenders. During 2005/06,
49 percent of borrowers used their loans to refinance credit card or other high
interest rate debts and another 32 percent to purchase or repair motor vehicles.
With the number of refinance applications it is evident that many people need
advice on personal financial matters. A series of “Money Coach” articles featured
in the Army News over recent issues; these have been developed into a booklet
which can be accessed on the Army Central Welfare Intranet site.
Future directions
The Army NPF will continue to promote the Personnel Loan Scheme as a
worthwhile borrowing option for Army personnel. In addition to the ongoing leave
centre refurbishment programme, the ACWF will focus on supporting worthwhile
camp projects that benefit as many Army people as possible.
Work will continue on updating the online Army Welfare Resource Book and
developing other useful money and life skills resource material.
WN 06-0034-84
WN 06-0034-83
Montecillo
Home opens
While a large military contingent
was in London for the unveiling of the
New Zealand Memorial in Hyde Park,
an equally important Armistice Day
event was marked in Dunedin.
The official opening of the Montecillo
Veterans Home & Hospital involved
soldiers from 2/1 RNZIR and the 4th
Otago Southland Battalion Group.
The facility was purpose-built to
meet the unique needs of former
service personnel and their families.
It opened for business on the flat of
South Dunedin in early September,
replacing the aging facilities in the
Montecillo Veterans Home & Hospital
hilly suburb of Mornington.
On 11 November, a 50-person Guard
of Honour, along with the support of
the NZ Army band, paraded before
Dame Dorothy Fraser who, as the chair
of the Montecillo Trust, has been the
driving force behind the new facility.
Local dignitaries, the Government,
and senior officers from each armed
service were also present at the
O South Bn Gp chaplain CAPT Tony Harrison. opening.
RSM, WO1 Murray Nelson. Montecillo
After a minute’s silence during the
Veterans Home & Hospital chief executive 11th hour of the 11th day, a plaque was
MAJ (rtd) Fred Daniel
unveiled to mark the occasion.
RNZN Motel Units
The RNZN has recently purchased four modern new
apartments in Taupo and Mount Maunganui.
Each unit features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, double
garage with internal access, designer kitchen, and heating,
plus an external fully equipped BBQ area. The chattels are of
very high standard and each unit sleeps up to eight people.
Both Taupo and Mt Maunganui lodges have been very
popular since opening earlier this year, with current bookings
up to a year in advance, mainly during weekends.
Like Army, the RNZN has ballot periods during school
holidays, but vacancies are still available from Sunday to
Friday each week.
A special offer is available to Category 2 (Ex RNZN RF and
Ex RNZN civilians with a minimum five years' service) and
Category 3 personnel (Army, RNZAF and NZDF civilians)
– you can now book two months in advance. Note that this
only applies to weekdays, Monday to Friday.
This special offer is for a trial period of six months until
April 2007.
So get your bookings in quick to avoid disappointment!
For further information, check out the RNZN Intranet Navy Motels and Amenities site,
or contact the RNZN motels manager on 09 445 5131, DTelN: (397) 7131,
email [email protected]
The Officer Cadet School of New Zealand
The Officer Cadet School of New Zealand is looking for professional,
highly motivated TF or RF soldiers to join the support section.
Soldiers interested in joining need to be fit, and capable of
working independently.
If you think you’ve got what it takes to become a staff
member at OCS (NZ), contact MCM Branch.
For further information: RSM, OCS (NZ)
Courage
Integrity
Loyalty
Initiative
X Factor
Pursuit of excellence
Army News
on intranet
Did you need to find an article you remember
seeing in Army News? Easy!
Go to Army intranet site.
Top banner menu – Army Links, drop down menu – Army News
On the left are three options:
Feedback – tell us what you think about Army News, what you’d like to see
Newspapers – pdf’s of Army News issues since June 2005
Database – Search for articles that have appeared since June 2005. Just
enter a keyword, and you should be able to find what you’re looking for. The
data will tell you which issue the article appeared in, then you can go to the pdf
to view it, and print it off.
How easy is that!!?
WOs fundraise
for Waiouru
kindy
During the current Warrant Officers Course (Walker MNZM
Class 2006), students have been fundraising for the Waiouru
Kindergarten, by delivering Waiouru’s Tussock Times to the housing
area. The kindergarten, in turn, receives a $500 donation.
issue 367 14 November 2006
100 percent turnout
WN 06-0034-97
Pyrotechnic spectacular
WN 06-0034-98
On Guy Fawkes night the Waiouru community gathered at the rugby grounds
to celebrate the end of a long winter and the approaching end of a busy year.
They were treated to a spectacular pyrotechnic display, a giant bonfire, plenty
of sparklers for the children and stalls selling tasty food. The weekend went by
completely free of firework-induced damage or burns.
Army Sales Outlet
When: 4 and 5 December 2006
Time: 10.30am – 2.00pm both days
This is the last opportunity to buy goodies
through the Sales Outlet for 2006.
Goods available for sale: sleeping bags, two-man tents, crockery,
jackets, sweaters, sweatshirts, sockets, parkas, PVC wet weather gear,
entrenching tools, tools, office furniture, computer packages, packs,
socks, boots, generators, blankets, overalls, berets, running shoes,
and lots more!
Access to the Shop-Online can be gained through the Army Intranet site.
WN 06-0034-79
WN 06-0034-81
Returning to the battlefield
How many TF Units can claim a 100 percent turn out? The Exercise Writing Team
(EWT) invariably manages a high attendance rate at Exercise Writing Weekends
but managed the magic 100 percent for its last weekend in late October.
The EWT is comprised of Territorial Force officers who draft major exercises for
the Land Component Commander. The EWT is currently working up Exercise Lion
Spirit 2007 to exercise New Zealand and Singaporean contingents in coalition
operations. The next task will be to draft Exercise Suman Warrior 2007 that will
exercise signatories to the Five Power Defence Agreement.
That weekend the Territorial Force Advisor, BRIG Ants Howie, presented LT
COL Richard Cooper with his Efficiency Decoration at a ceremony hosted by the
Hobsonville RSA.
LT COL Cooper enlisted in the Regular Force on 3 July 1967. He saw operational
service in Kashmir from 29 October 1973 to 30 October 1974, and again as the CO
of the New Zealand contingent of the Multi National Force in the Sinai from 1991 to
1992. In 1992 he handed over to now COL Steve Franklin (who joined the EWT for
the ceremony) and he, in turn, handed over to the then LT COL Ants Howie, proving
again what a small world we live in.
LT COL Cooper transferred from the RF to the TF in March 1993 and soon accepted
the role as head of the EWT. It is a true measure of distinguished service to be
awarded both the Armed Forces Award and the Efficiency Decoration.
The EWT also dined out LT COL John Mackie after 33 years' service. LT COL
Mackie completed his basic training on the very first TF intake in 1973. He was
commissioned into the RNZAMC and worked with 1 Field Ambulance, which
amalgamated with 1 Medical Battalion before being renamed 1 Fd Amb. LT COL
Mackie commanded the unit until 1993. He is a long-serving stalwart of the EWT
and will be sorely missed.
The giant bonfire
news13
New Zealand soldiers form a guard around the monument to New
Zealand’s contribution to the Battle of the Somme
LBDR Colin Rihari
Seven New Zealand Defence Force personnel travelled
from Bosnia to France in September to commemorate the 90th
anniversary of the Battle of the Somme.
The commemoration was held at the New Zealand
monument in Longueval, France, where the New Zealand
Division played a key part in the 1916 Somme offensive.
New Zealand soldiers deployed to Bosnia formed a
catafalque guard under the watchful eye of WO1 Kemp
Solomon, 2IC of the Liaison and Observation Team in Bosnia.
WO1 Solomon took to his duties like a duck to water, his pace
stick back under his arm.
Defence Attachés from Britain, France, South Africa,
Australia, India and Canada attended the ceremony, which
was coordinated by Brigadier Paul Southwell, Defence Attaché
to London. They were joined by New Zealand Ambassador
to France, Sarah Dennis; the Mayor of Longueval; French
National Defence Representative; and a number of returned
servicemen, locals and passers by.
The ceremony, while involving a 30-man guard and 35man band from the French Defence Force, had a distinctive
New Zealand flavour, incorporating New Zealand music and a
traditional Maori kairanga.
Commemorations began with a battlefield tour led by CDT
Paul Mayer, MA to BRIG Southwell, to set the scene for the
events that took place on that day, 90 years ago.
In true Army fashion, at dawn on 15 September – the time
the New Zealand advance began, 90 years earlier – a small,
touching ceremony was held at Caterpillar cemetery, where
the bodies of many soldiers who died on the battlefield lay,
and the body of the Unknown Warrior had previously lain.
From there, the group ran the route of the advance, finishing
at the small memorial in the Longueval township.
Contributed by CAPT Julia Leckey
Efficiency for
excellence
Hamilton Officers Club President Lieutenant (Rtd) Malcolm
Hinton presents Cadet Lance Corporal Vianna Standen, from
Hamilton Fraser High School Cadet Unit, with an “Efficiency for
Excellence” certificate. The annual award is presented by the
Hamilton Officers Club to cadets in the Hamilton area who display
the highest standards of excellence and merit.
TOUCH
Inter-regionals
15-19 January 2007
Trentham
Place your sports
nomination now
cmyk
14entertainment
seeing
stars CROSSWORD
1
AQUARIUS
GEMINI
LIBRA
Despite some early setbacks, you
long-term plans for conquest of
the planet are well in hand. It
is time to reveal your plans to
friends and family. They will be
only too keen to help, in return
for powerful fiefdoms you can
grant them once you are crowned
emperor.
If a crocodile has you in its jaws,
it is important to stop it from
shaking you or rolling over, as
this can cause extreme tissue
damage. I must confess, I’m not
too sure about how to actually
stop it from doing these things. I
imagine not getting a leg jammed
in its jaws is the first thing.
You will be so intent on doing
everything that you may fall short
of your set goals. Just extend
the deadlines. It’s painless, and
saves a lot of last-minute running
around in a panic.
May 22 to June 21
PISCES
CANCER
You will find yourself involved in a
bit of a feud if you are stubborn
and unwilling to compromise. So
it looks like you’ll find yourself
involved in a bit of a feud.
Upcoming travel will be a chance
for excitement and adventure.
Especially when you try to get
by with just the clothes you are
wearing when your bags go to a
different country forever.
Feb 20 to Mar 20
ARIES
Mar 21 to April 20
The planetary trend for the
next couple of weeks is of self
sacrifice in helping friends and
family during their time of need.
As long as they don’t need too
damn much.
June 22 to July 23
LEO
July 24 to Aug 23
Please and thank you are words
you just don’t hear enough of
these days in society. Sort of like
other words that are dying out.
Like “air support”.
TAURUS
VIRGO
There is not much point in trying
to talk sense to you this week,
and you know why.
Sagittarians are talking to their
ammunition again. Avoid them.
Aug 24 to Sept 23
April 21 to May 21
★
★★
HUBBARD
CARTOON
6
5
Sept 24 to Oct 23
8
7
9
12
11
10
SCORPIO
Oct 24 to Nov 22
You could do something about
that medical condition or you
can just groan and moan about
it to everyone you meet. They
will thank you for the insight into
your physiology.
SAGITTARIUS
16
Rounds fly more accurately
if you kiss each one before
loading it into the magazine and
whispering: fly straight and true,
my little mate. Nobody will think
it odd. Well, nobody in your unit
anyway.
CAPRICORN
Dec 21 to Jan 20
Make sure that any children in
your life know how much you
care, unless you don’t care
very much. Then they won’t
appreciate knowing that.
★
15
14
13
19
18
17
22
21
20
Nov 23 to Dec 20
★
★
★
★
BY MIKE DUNCAN
22
ACROSS:
1 Group of soldiers assigned to
an extremely dangerous duty
in bygone days (7,4)
7 Supply with military equipment and stores
8 Native tree
9 Malayan and Indonesian knife
11 Anti-aircraft fire
13 Yi elds
14 Company (abbr)
15 Lar gest continent
16 Great number of ships or
aircraft
18 End of a game of chess
20 Chop
21 and 22 Special piece of NZ
unveiled on Armistice Day in
London (4,4,3,8)
DOWN:
1 Thighbone
2 Australian Navy (abbr)
3 Incursions
4 Central European republic
5 Woman’s name
6 Hindu serving in the Indian or
THE
British Army
10 Rastafarian (abbr)
12 Derogatory term for a German
during WWI I
13 Sword, Juno, Omaha were
these inWWII’ s Normandy
D-Day landing
14 NZ islands whose chief settle
ment isWaitangi
17 Parrot
18 Computer communication
device
19 Bumpkin
22 “The Greatest” boxer
PREVIOUS PUZZLE
D
R
A
W
N
E
V
O
E
T
C
A
E
R
A
L
L
Y
D E
R
O B
A
G
U N
E
S
X
I
T
T
S
E
E
A
T
H
A R O
O
E W
E
A
R
G
A
S
S
T
E
A U
N
D
A
O
V A
E
R C
W
I
N
C
H
smoko quiz
I
A
U
A
L
I
I
E
N
G
U
L
I
M
N
O
I
G
E
R
D
F
F
E
A
G
G
1.
What was the strategic aim of the Gallipoli campaign?
2.
How many allied troops fought at Gallipoli?
O
D
E
S
T
Y
C
G
R
H
#031
1.3. In September
2006 NZcommanded
commemorated
anniversary
Bernard Freyberg
2 NZthe
Div90th
in WWII.
With of
the Battle
the Somme.
is the
and where is it?
which of
British
unit didWhat
he serve
at Somme
Gallipoli?
2. What kind of earthwork is a glacis?
4.
How many New Zealand troops landed on 25 April, 1915.
2000,
3000 orwhat
5000?
3. Broadly
speaking,
is the role of the military engineer in
war?
5.
Who commanded the British forces, including the
ANZACs,
ontransport
Gallipoli?what does RO/RO stand for?
4. In terms
of sea
5.6. And How
in airlong
transport
the
letters VTOL?
did the
campaign
last?
6.7. What
names from
will be
givencountries
the Project
Protector
Offshore Patrol
Soldiers
which
fought
at Gallipoli?
Vessels?
many
New
Zealanders
were serving
7.8. HowHow
many
NZLAV
vehicles
were bought
for theatNZGallipoli?
Army?
What
were Neware
Zealand’s
casualties?
8.9. What
modifications
to be made
to the RNZAF’s passengertransport Boeing 757s?
10.
In terms of troop losses, which country suffered the
9. What
VLLAD
system is in service with the Army?
most
at Gallipoli?
10. What vehicle was the mainstay of Army transport before the
advent of the Unimog?
ANSWERS
Jan 21 to Feb 19
BY MIKE DUNCAN
4
3
2
#60
1. The Somme is a 245km river in Northern France. Its upper basin was the arena for
the battle. 2. A glacis is an artificial slope of earth across the front of a strongpoint,
ANSWERS
designed to keep attackers under fire to the last possible moment. 4. Roll On/Roll
1.The elimination of Turkey from the war as a German ally 2.Approximately 480,000
Off. 5. Vertical Take Off and Landing.
The Hood
Battalion
of theWellington.
Royal Naval7.Division
5. General
Ian Hamilton
6.3.HMNZS
Otago
and HMNZS
105. 8. 4.3000
The aircraft
are to Sir
be modifed
15NZDF’s
October,
1915, then Sirfor
Charles
Monrocapability.
6. Near enough
to eight
months:
25 April
tountil
meet
requirements
a multi-role
This will
include
passenger,
– 20 December,
1915, although
the9.last
troops
left RL
Helles
on 9 January, 1916 7.
freight,
VIP and aero-medical
roles.
TheBritish
mistral.
10. The
Bedford.
Turkey, Germany, NZ, Australia, France, Great Britain and India. 8. 8556 9. 7473; 2721
died and 4752 were wounded but many men returned again and again after recovering
from wounds or disease 10. Turkey, with an estimated 250,000 casualties
★
SERVING NEW ZEALAND LOYALLY AND HONOURABLY
A
D
E
T
sport15
Super Hayden headed for Hurricanes
rugby player I’ve got to fully commit my time and go on leave without
pay. It’s a huge commitment to do both jobs.”
CPL Triggs says he can’t give enough credit to the Army for the level
of support they have given him.
“They have never had to deal with this before; they’ve never had
someone fully professional so it’s new roads for them. The Army has
been very positive; my unit bosses have been awesome and last year
they made it easy for me. The support I’ve received since being named
in the Hurricanes has been amazing.”
There are many people CPL Triggs admires in the game, including
Jason Eaton, John Eales, Kelly Allen, Dane Bergin and Richie McCaw.
“But it’s not only rugby players who inspire me. My family have done
a lot for me and kept me going, and people within the Army. My goal
is to do my family proud and my ancestors and carry the family name
with pride, because I’ve got a lot of people to represent.”
The Hurricanes have a four-week preseason camp in December to
condition the players for their first preseason game in January.
“We do three to four types of training each day. It’s just pretty much
training all day. Training for games, then recovery and nutrition, and
WN 06-0034-90
Combative and energetic rugby
LCPL Lloyd Carter, beats two opposition players from 3 Transport Company with ease
prominent, able to dictate play almost at will and ply their
magic to good effect.
However, Support Company never gave up, and came
back strongly in the second half. Support Company proved
themselves to be worthy runners up, and received the
Commander’s Plate. For third place, Camp Units received the
Commander’s Shield.
LCPL Carter was worthy of the “Player of the Tournament”
title; on occasions, he was able to mesmerise opposition
players with some deft footwork coupled with blinding
speed.
A special innovation was a women’s rugby game, where
both teams showed some impressive individual player skills
and technical proficiency.
Special guests for the tournament were Mary and Goodwin
McNutt, the parents of the late Major John McNutt.
Contributed by CAPT Paul Milner
WN 06-0034-91
The eagerly awaited McNutt Trophy, 10-a-side rugby
competition, was held on recently at Burrows Field, Burnham
Military Camp. The competition has long been a focal point for
teams seeking to accumulate points towards the sought-after
Commander’s Trophy for 2006.
In what proved to be a very combative and energetic series
of matches, the Logistic Company team from 2/1 RNZIR proved
to be worthy tournament winners, beating a 2/1 Support
Company team 26-17 in the final.
Played on a very hard and fast surface in hot conditions,
all teams had players who displayed individual brilliance.
However, too many fundamental errors under pressure
(missed tackles and knock-ons, in particular), stopped some
teams progressing further.
So it proved at the business end of the competition. In
the final, Logistic Company cantered to a well-deserved 215 half-time lead. LCPLs Arron James and Lloyd Carter were
WN 06-0311-16
Twenty-five years ago the Waiouru Bobcats Rugby League team was established.
Although the team folded in 2005, the Bobcats had to field a team in 2006 to
celebrate 25 years of rugby league in Waiouru.
This was not going to be an easy task but – as always with the Bobcats – there
was a small hub of volunteers willing to sacrifice their time to get a team in the
Manawatu Rugby League Competition.
The 2006 season kicked off with a touch module. This gave Bobcats’ management
a chance to promote the club, recruit players, and provide a sporting activity for
the community and soldiers. Never before had we seen so many financial players
prior to the season starting!
Our goal during pre-season training was to keep the Bobcats in the Manawatu
Rugby League Competition and field 17 players week in and week out. To achieve
this, we would come to rely on a band of semi-retired players and Linton-based
newcomers, who would supplement the team throughout the season. Although
numbers were high and things looked promising, the first round was tough and
the Bobcats were relegated to the Senior First grade.
The second round required even more commitment from the core of dedicated
players and the Linton band of merry men, as numbers slowly dropped off due
to injuries, work commitments and family reasons – no different to
previous seasons.
Before we knew it, the semi-finals were upon us. The Bobcats came up against
Ohakea in Waiouru and provided the supporters with some entertaining play.
Although the confrontation had all the ingredients required of a semi-final, the
Bobcats won comfortably.
The Bobcats suddenly found themselves in the Manawatu Rugby League Senior
First Grand Final. From club survival mode to grand finals mode, all players were
available and keen to take it out.
Although the finals team still needed another game to gel, they took the field
with the quiet confidence of those who had been here before. Experience isn’t
something taught and it showed on the day, with the Bobcats taking out the
championship over the Levin Knights.
WN 06-0034-93
Hear us roar
sleeping and all that.”
CPL Triggs says Army
personnel with dreams of
sporting careers should
be aware the Army does
everything it can to
facilitate this.
“I can’t thank the Army
enough for the support
they have given me and
to all those people in the CPL Hayden Triggs will be swapping his
Army who have sports overalls for a playing strip when he joins
dreams, I’d like to say the the Hurricanes
Army will help those who
aspire to be professional in sport. The Army is positive about it and will
help you if you really want it, but you have to do the hard work.”
The Hurricanes’ first international game is in Brisbane on 3 February
2006, so watch out for our Army champ!
Reported by Faye Lougher
WN 06-0311-15
Linton diesel mechanic Corporal Hayden Triggs has been selected to
join the Hurricanes Super 14 team.
Like his future team-mate Tana Umaga, 24-year-old CPL Triggs
is originally from Wainuiomata, but he spent four years at boarding
school in Manawatu before joining the Army seven years ago. He has
been playing rugby for 14 years now and says joining the Hurricanes
is the ultimate.
“I was lucky, there were a few boys who could have made it but I was
lucky enough to be selected from the NPC. My family was absolutely
over the moon. A lot of people don’t realise there is a lot of sacrifice.
My Mum and Dad are the ones who haven’t seen me because I’ve been
[away] playing. It’s definitely worth the sacrifice. I’ve spent six to seven
years training to get where I am – I’ve done the hard yards, I’ve gone
without things to get there.”
CPL Triggs plays lock at present but has also played blindside for the
Linton Rugby Club.
“The last four years I’ve been in the amateur part of New Zealand
rugby, the second division, and Manawatu rose to the first division
this year. Training takes four days a week and now I’m a professional
WN 06-0311-19
issue 367 14 November 2006
LCPL Lloyd Carter accepts the “Player of the Tournament” medal
from Comd 3 LFG, COL Dave Gawn
The Manawatu Rugby League Senior First champions for 2006: the Waiouru Bobcats
Captain of the winning team, PTE Adam Munro, accepts the McNutt
Trophy from Mary and Goodwin McNutt
The John McNutt Memorial Rugby Trophy is competed for at company level between Burnham units.
Major John McNutt graduated from Royal Military College, Duntroon in December 1996. After graduating from RMC, MAJ
McNutt served for three years as a platoon commander with 2nd/1st RNZIR. During this period he played for both the Battalion
and Burnham rugby teams, savouring two Freyberg Cup victories with 2nd/1st.
In January 2000, MAJ McNutt was killed while on operations in Kuwait.
Since its inception, the John McNutt Memorial Rugby Trophy has been presented to the winning team by MAJ McNutt’s
parents, Goodwin and Mary McNutt.
ISSUE 367
cmyk
sport
WN 06-0311-20
14 November 2006
www.army.mil.nz
A WORLD CLASS ARMY THAT HAS MANA
Absolute caning
SSGT Paul Tamati is tackled simultaneously by MAJ Brett Stott and a fellow
officer during the Challenge Cup rugby match at Waiouru between the Officers
and Senior NCOs Messes.
MAJ Seruvatu has already attempted a tackle, and SSGT Joseph Taipari
moves up in support.
“The photo doesn’t provide a true reflection on the absolute caning
inflicted upon the warrant officers and sergeants by the officers on the day”,
said CAPT Jim Skeddon.
The messes also competed in clay bird shooting, soccer, golf and netball.
The officers were victorious, taking out the Challenge Cup.