w w w. a r m y. m i l . n z i s s u e4 3 2 | J u n e 2 0 1 2

shooting gold

army shooters win gold

singing sensationwinning recruittop sportsperson

success

c o u r a g e | c o m m i t m e n t | c o m r a d e s h i p | i n t e g r i t yarmynews

new funding to support more war veterans

Kiwi military pers deploy to help papua new guinea electoral commission

nz defence force supports “it’s not oK” campaign in upper hutt

defence force personnel taKe up united nations role in syria

More New Zealand veterans will be acknowledged for their service in operations overseas as part of a new initiative in Budget 2012, says Veterans’ Affairs Minister Nathan Guy.

“The Budget provides new operating funding of $4.8 million over the next four years to extend war pension coverage to those who served in 10 additional military deployments. This means that veterans will be eligible for a War Disablement Pension for any disability that occurred as a result of service in these overseas missions.

“I am proud that this Government is showing our respect and thanks to men and women who have served in these operations overseas. Those who took part deserve to be recognised and supported,” Mr Guy says.

The 10 new deployments to be recognised are:Rhodesia - Operation Midford (1979 - 1980)•Afghanistan – Mine clearing training team (1991)•Iraq - United Nations Special Commission (1991 - 1999)•Iraq - United Nations Monitoring, Verification and Inspection •Commission (2002 - 2003)Cambodia - United Nations Advance Mission (1991 – 1992); Mine Action •Centre and Mine Clearance Training Unit (1991 - 1993); and United Nations Transitional Authority (1992 – 1993)Somalia - United Nations Operations (1993 – 1995)•Haiti - United Nations Mission (1994 – 1995)•Bougainville - South Pacific Peacekeeping Force (1994); Truce •Monitoring Group (1997 – 1998); and Peace Monitoring Group (1998 – 2003)Sudan - United Nations Mission (2005 – present)•Southern Lebanon - United Nations Mine Action Coordination Centre •(2007 – 2008).

In total, this means an estimated 1,097 additional veterans will be eligible to receive assistance under the War Pensions Act 1954.

The change follows a reclassification of these deployments as ‘emergencies’ under the War Pensions Act and will take effect from 1 July 2012.

Roadside billboards featuring the Army’s Major David Thorsen and Warrant Officer Class One Todd Groombridge will be placed in Upper Hutt alongside those of All Black Cory Jane in support of the City Council’s month-long campaign against family violence starting 18 June.

“Family violence is a community issue and we in the NZ Defence Force can help prevent this by supporting initiatives in the wider community,” Assistant Chief Personnel Commodore Kevin Keat said.

The five billboards feature two other “Champions” who are fronting the campaign within the New Zealand Defence Force – Lieutenant Sarah Campbell from the Navy and Squadron Leader Oliver Bint from the Air Force.

“This show of support from the NZ Defence Force is a big boost for our campaign,” Upper Hutt Mayor Wayne Guppy said. “Police statistics show that about half of all homicides in New Zealand result from family violence so the more support we can get, the faster we can remove this scourge from our communities.”

"We congratulate the NZ Defence Force for showing leadership on this issue. By raising awareness about family violence within the NZ Defence Force and by joining the Upper Hutt City’s campaign, they have shown true commitment to reducing New Zealand's high rates of family violence," said Murray Edridge, Deputy Chief Executive of the Ministry of Social Development (MSD).

Last December, the NZ Defence Force launched its own campaign against family violence. Posters and brochures about family violence have been disseminated in camps and bases throughout the country. Online information about warning signs of family violence and where to seek help have also been made available to NZ Defence Force personnel.

The NZ Defence Force’s information campaign aimed to raise awareness about family violence issues, signpost the services that are available within the organisation and externally, and encourage personnel to seek help if needed.

Six NZ Defence Force personnel have travelled to Syria to join the United Nations Supervision Mission in Syria (UNSMIS).

The New Zealand Government responded to an urgent request from the UN in May, and offered to deploy five Defence Force personnel to Syria as military observers monitoring the agreed cessation of armed violence. The UN subsequently asked for an additional NZ Defence Force officer to take up a role in UNSMIS headquarters.

Commander Joint Forces New Zealand, Major General Dave Gawn, says the Defence Force has a strong relationship with the United Nations, supporting these types of deployments.

“New Zealand is a valued international partner committed to a multilateral UN approach to peace and security. The Defence Force currently has 23 personnel serving as peacekeepers on UN missions in eight countries around the world, from Timor-Leste and Afghanistan, to Iraq and South Sudan. The Defence Force also has a long standing commitment to UNTSO in Southern Lebanon, Israel and Syria.

“Our personnel are well prepared and well trained for the situations they may encounter in Syria. Their ability to work independently, think logically and impartially, and establish professional relationships with a variety of personnel, make them ideally suited to work as military observers as part of UNSMIS.”

UNSMIS is mandated to provide up to 300 unarmed military observers to Syria to monitor an agreed cessation of armed violence in all its forms by all parties.

Two Royal New Zealand Air Force UH-1H Iroquois helicopters have been loaded on to a Royal Australian Air Force C-17 for deployment to Papua New Guinea, with a third to follow.

New Zealand and Australia are providing support to the Papua New Guinea Electoral Commission and authorities to ensure a fair, free and safe general election.

The NZ Defence Force is supporting the Australian Defence Force-led Combined Joint Task Force 630, where over 250 Australian and New Zealand personnel will assist the Papua New Guinea Electoral Commission in the transportation of election material and election officials to and from remote areas.

Deputy Commander of the Combined Joint Task Force, New Zealand Army Lieutenant Colonel David de Koning, says the arrival of No. 3 Squadron signals the start of an intense period of operations in support of the election. The total number of NZ Defence Force personnel involved will be 40.

“3 Squadron will operate through Northern Province and Milne Bay transporting election officials and materials into the more remote villages. They have a lot of work to do over a very short period of time to help ensure the people on the ground get their opportunity to vote.”

Four Australian Army Black Hawks helicopters, as well as Royal Australian Air Force B350 King Airs and C-130 Hercules, and a Royal Australian Navy Landing Craft Heavy have also been assigned to the operation. A small number of personnel have also been working with the Papua New Guinea Electoral Commission for several months in a planning role.

No. 3 Squadron has just returned from Ex TROPIC ASTRA, an annual tropical flying exercise in Samoa. Detachment Commander, Wing Commander Shaun Clark, says the deployment to Papua New Guinea comes at an ideal time with 3 Squadron personnel having just exercised their skills in a tropical environment.

"The terrain and weather in Papua New Guinea will present some challenging flying for the aircrew, particularly when operating to the villages in the mountains. The isolation of Tufi means that the maintenance team have no access to external support or equipment. They will be relying solely on what we bring into theatre when we deploy.”

”We are looking forward to working with the Australians to assist Papua New Guinea authorities. The NZ Defence Force has a long history, working closely with our Australian partners building interoperability,” adds Wing Commander Clark.

army news needs your stories!Have you done something recently that really turned out well? Have your troops had successes they are proud of? Maybe they have come up with a truly great idea,

received an excellent exam result, or a win on the sportsfield.Tell us about it. If you need help with putting the story together or illustrating it, just call 04 4960227, or email armynews@nzdf.mil.nz

The Army News is published for the Regular and Territorial Force and

civilian staff of the New Zealand Army.

Editor: Judith MartinPhone: 04-496-0227 or

DTelN: 349-7227Fax: 04-496-0290

email: armynews@nzdf.mil.nz

Website: www.army.mil.nzPrinting: Bluestar, Petone.

design: Jennifer Watts, DCG, NZDF

Editorial contributions and letters are welcomed.

They may be sent directly to the Army News and do not need to be forwarded through

normal command channels. Submit them to The Editor, Army News, DCG, HQ NZDF,

Private Bag 39997, Wellington, or by email. Deadline instructions: Army News is

published on the third Tuesday of each month, except January. Please have all

contributions to the editor by the first of the month.

Nothing in the Army News should be taken as overriding any New Zealand Defence

Force regulation. Readers should refer to the relevant service 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.

COVER:Winners: Corporal Mike Duncan and Lance Corporal Paris Harrison, members of the shooting team that brought Gold back to New Zealand. See page 8

June 2012issue 432

nzarmynewscontents

newsSuccess 05

Diva dentist delights 06Top sportsperson 09

Exercise Alam Halfa 10Top Recruit 11

Enhanced Infantry Company 12

Erebus medals 13

trainingEx Tebaga Gap 15

Twin peaks battle tab 16Land petroleum operators 22

people Mental health-talk to

someone 18US Army War College 20

sportMacca trains for Poland 26

Timor fight night 28

armynews03issue 432 | June 2012

By Chief of Army, Major General Tim Keating

This month Army News sets out to celebrate the many successful individuals and groups that make up our Army. It is our opportunity to say, “Good on ya, mate” .

In times like these we have a tendency to spotlight the many challenges that we face rather than the positive aspects of our profession which reflect the great people we have in our ranks, acting individually or as members of strong teams. During my visits to Camps and units and in the correspondence and news that I receive, I have been particularly struck by the many great achievements that Army people have made. And they are continuing to achieve both in their core professional skills, as members of the greater New Zealand Community or in individual pursuits outside work.

These people, who make up the majority of our Army, are often armed only with the barest of resources, but are driven to excellence by a strong sense of purpose and a will to win. This exemplifies the character of our Army; that is despite limited resources and with the odds often not in our favour, it is the sprit of human endeavour and achievement that becomes the defining factor in the end.

So we have used this month to highlight some examples of the many success stories across our Army. There are of course many more who have not made this issue, but this sample group of stories is used as an illustration of what a successful and proud organisation we belong to.

Sometimes in our busy jobs, we can forget to stop and take stock of the good, as well as the not so good. In this we can often forget to acknowledge and thank those that continue to add to the success story that is the New Zealand Army. Therefore in all our work places we need to take some time to stop and reflect on what we have achieved and thank those who have led success. Put them on a pedestal and give due accolades, or at the very least ,and in good Kiwi Army fashion, shake their hand and say “Good on ya mate”.

good on ya, mates

Queen’s Birthday and diamond JuBilee honours 2012Four New Zealand Army

personnel who have made significant contributions while deployed both overseas and in New Zealand were named in the Queen’s Birthday and Diamond Jubilee honours.

Colonel Hugh Trengrove is to be a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for services to forensic science.

He is the National Disaster Victim Identification Coordinator for Forensic Odontology and coordinated the disaster victim identification efforts following the 22 February 2011 Christchurch earthquake.

Though due to retire on the day of the 22 February earthquake, he continued in his position as the Chief Advisor Health (J1 Health) at Joint Forces New Zealand and is a qualified Urban Search and Rescue Operative. He personally led efforts to recover human remains for identification as effectively and promptly as possible, especially at the site of the CTV building. He also served with the New Zealand Police Disaster Victim Identification teams in Thailand following the 2004 tsunami. Colonel Trengrove is a specialist restorative dental surgeon, an examiner for the College of Dental Surgeons and manages publications in the New Zealand Dental Journal.

Three other personnel are to receive the New Zealand Distinguished Service Decoration (DSD). They are Lieutenant Colonel Hugh McAslan, Major David Ackroyd, and Warrant Officer Class One Chris Wilson.

Lieutenant Colonel McAslan served in Afghanistan as the Senior Military Advisor with the New Zealand Provincial Reconstruction Team from April to September 2011. During this period, the responsibility for governance and security of Bamyan province was formally handed over to the Afghan authorities. At the same time, the Provincial Reconstruction Team was required to develop strategies to prevent insurgents from disrupting the transition. He also adopted tactics that allowed the Provincial Reconstruction Team to provide a greater presence and level of security in the strategically important north eastern district of Bamyan, without incurring casualties to insurgent attacks on two separate occasions. He also initiated a plan to provide the Provincial government with the means and resources to maintain security in Bamyan when New Zealand forces leave the province. The plan he developed has become the blueprint for how New Zealand will meet the considerable challenges associated with the transition process. The framework has now been set for the New Zealand Defence Force to meet its obligations, in accordance with New Zealand government directives, to train and mentor an Afghan national police force

that will eventually assume the responsibility for security in Bamyan.

Major Ackroyd served as Logistics Advisor to the Falantil – Forca de Defesa De Timor Leste (F-FDTL) from June 2004 to July 2005. In November 2010, he returned to Timor Leste to serve a second 12 month tour as Logistic Advisor to the Logistic Commander of the F-FDTL. In these roles he trained, provided advice and mentored Timor Leste officers in the tactical and operational aspects of military logistics and encouraged them to find solutions to problems and situations, rather than solving the problems himself and imposing solutions. The outcome has been the considerable improvement in the capacity and overall skill levels in logistics management within the F-FDTL. He has also been pro-active within a multi-national group of advisors whose efforts have created a sound base upon which the F-FDTL will grow and develop their maintenance and support capabilities. Apart from his specialised role, his commitment to the F-FDTL has ensured that recent Falantil Day parades, when the legacy of those who contributed and sacrificed so much for the Independence of Timor Leste are honoured, have been staged in a professional manner. The esteem with which New Zealand is now held within Timor Leste, is due in no small measure to his skills and diplomacy.

Warrant Officer Class One Chris Wilson served in Afghanistan with the New Zealand Provincial Reconstruction Team from April to October 2010. His duty as Patrol Liaison Officer was to establish a network of relationships with both local government representatives and community leaders in the Kahmard and Sayghan districts of Bamyan province, to promote reconstruction efforts in governance, development and security. In June and July, the local communities where he worked were devastated by the worst flooding in living memory. His careful management of scarce resources resulted in significant and much needed relief being provided to the local population. On 3 August, his Patrol Commander (Lieutenant O’Donnell) was killed in an ambush. He had to take immediate command of the patrol, win the resulting fire fight (during which actions by the crew members of the ambushed vehicle and another patrol member who went forward to affect their rescue, have been recognised by gallantry awards) and adopt a defensive position until the arrival of a supporting force. He then also assumed command of the patrol, providing the leadership and guidance necessary for the young soldiers to come to terms with what had been a traumatic event, without losing operational integrity, at a time when security was becoming of increasing concern.

Major Bill Keelan, now of Army General Staff in Wellington is to receive a • Commendation

for distinguished service as part of the Australian Queen’s Birthday Honours. Major

Keelan is to receive the award for distinguished performance of duty in warlike

operations as the Combined Joint Operations Officer, Headquarters Combined Team

Uruzgan on Operation Slipper in Afghanistan from September 2010 to May 2011.

Forensic dentistry is demanding and can be unpleasant work, but it is very rewarding, and a stimulating change from day to day dentistry, says Colonel Hugh Trengrove.

Formerly Chief Advisor Health (J1 Health),at Joint Force Headquarters New Zealand, COL Trengrove now works part-time from Auckland for Army General Staff as a special project officer working on a number of health related policy and development areas. He also works three days a week with the New Zealand Dental Association where he is the Associate Director - Research and Policy.

He, and other forensic dentists, are regularly asked by the police to help identify human remains using forensic dentistry, and to give advice regarding, for example, bite marks, oral and facial trauma, assaults, and on anthropological remains. COL Trengrove has also worked on identifying soldiers killed behind enemy lines in the first Gulf War, and in Phuket, Thailand after the Boxing Day tsunami. He and other NZDF dental personnel were actively involved with assisting with the identification of those who died in the Carterton Hot Air ballooning accident in February this year.

Dental identification should, he believes, be a first resort.“Primary identifiers of human remains are finger prints, DNA, and dental. DNA analysis

is expensive and there are long waiting times for the results (in New Zealand). Finger print identification is often only viable if a person has a police record and their prints have been taken previously or if the police can obtain ‘latent’ prints (finger prints left by the individual before death) from, for example their home. In the case of a fire there are often no finger prints left. But virtually everyone has a dental record and a great degree of accuracy is ensured because there are so many checks and balances when ante-mortem and post-mortem records are compared.

“Despite it being at times unpleasant work I always feel privileged to be given the opportunity to help resolve a situation for a grieving family. In terms of the award, I was very surprised and feel quite undeserving. The old cliché 'recognition for other peoples efforts' comes to mind as all I do is try to get the right people, with the right skills in the right place to do the job - they do the work!”

colonel hugh trengrove

COL Trengrove COL Ackroyd

LTCOL Hugh McAslan (left), with General David Petraeus, Commander International Security Assistance Force and Commander US Forces Afghanistan, during a visit to the New Zealand Provincial Reconstruction Team (NZPRT) in Bamyan in 2011.

WO1 Chris Wilson

04armynewsissue 432 | June 2012

ceremonies to marK 70th anniversary of arrival of us marines in new zealand

lcpl terry top Jnco

A National Wreath-Laying Ceremony and Commemorative service to mark the 70th Anniversary of the arrival of US Marines in New Zealand was held at the National War Memorial and Tomb of the Unknown Warrior on 14 June.

The service was attended by Governor-General of New Zealand His Excellency Lieutenant General The Right Honourable Sir Jerry Mateparae, GNZM, QSO, Prime Minister, Hon John Key, Government Ministers and Defence representatives. The ceremony also involved US Marine Corp personnel and the Marine Forces Pacific Band.

US Marine Corp personnel and the Marine Forces Pacific Band took part in a Sunset Ceremony on the forecourt of Parliament later that day.

Burnham Army driver Lance Corporal Lauren Terry has plenty to smile about— she topped the Junior Non-commissioned Officers course at Burnham Camp recently.

LCPL Terry received the highest marks in instructional excellence at the end of the three month course which began in February and ended on 4 May.

Originally from Auckland, she has been in the Army for five years, and hopes to deploy to the Sinai as a driver or driving instructor in about 2013. LCPL Terry wants to eventually train to be a physical training instructor.

“I love my job— it’s awesome having an outdoors office. It can be demanding, but it’s great working with like-minded people," she said.

The guard awaits the beginning of the commemoration.

The Governor General LTGEN Sir Jerry Mateparae inspects the guard.

Major Bill Blair presents the top award to LCPL Terry.

The Commander US Marine Corps, Lieutenant General Duane Theissan with the Chief of Defence Force, Lieutenant General Rhys Jones.

success

1 Pl Fast Roping to the rear of building A1

The raid was a success in that both HVTs were neutralised and the entire task group withdrawn off the position to an assembly area.

The follow-up Since then the training has not stopped. EIC has continued to develop the capability by undertaking further live field firing, amphibious and urban operations training. Tactics, training and procedures as well as Standard Operating Procedures are being produced by the current members of EIC to support this unique organisation. The next goal is to master the learned skills by night, to include swarm roping, as well as urban and amphibious live firing. Block 2 training is currently underway which will see the numbers of initially trained personnel grow to around 120. This year has been an intense year so far for the members of EIC with a lot of time away training. However the

In this issue of Army News we are high-lighting some of the successes our people have had recently. Success means different things to different people, but the common denominators in this small selection of stories is the same— passion, talent and commitment. As the Chief of Army said earlier on in this issue, “It is the spirit of human endeavour and achievement that becomes the defining factor in the end.”

Good on all of you for the successes you have achieved.

Judith Martin, Editor

06armysuccessissue 432 | June 2012

nz army comBat shooting team wins gold at australian army sKill at arms

Lieutenant Kurt AndersenThe New Zealand Army Combat Shooting Team (NZACST) won

Gold at the Australian Army Skill At Arms Meeting (AASAM) at Puckapunyal, Victoria recently.

This year saw a different approach to team selection where soldiers were selected based not only on shooting ability, but also attitude, physical fitness, and communication skills, and predominantly from senior Private to Sergeant level. The concept was to train newcomers in high level shooting in order that they could then go back to their units and pass on the expertise they had learnt. The deployed team ended up comprising five Regular Force and eight Territorial Force soldiers, with only four soldiers having previous NZACST experience.

The team began training in Waiouru from late March through to late April, a total of 23 training days. This may sound a lot, however you never quite feel ready when you reach Australia and compete against the best shooters in the world. Training incorporated positional shooting practice, establishing points of aim for targets between five and 600 metres, selection for the smaller teams within the group and practising the 36 matches involved in the competition. These include individual and team matches for Steyr, P226, GPMG, bayonet and AW Sniper Rifle.

The team deployed on 1 May to Puckapunyal for three weeks and hit the ground running. The gear arrived on 2 May and the team began the controlled practices (checking points of aim on various ranges, etc) the following day. The snipers also began their competition on 3 May. Three days and seven matches later, Lance Corporal Paris Harrison (2/1 RNZIR), the Sniper Team Leader and LCPL Mark Lupi (7 WNHB) walked away with six medals, including a gold for LCPL Lupi and second overall for the sniper pair. This saw them beat the US Marine Corp, the US Army and Canada among others.

From there it was on to the individual rifle, pistol and machine gun matches where the ‘baptism of fire’ began for all the firers new to combat competition shooting. There were 159 international competitors from 14 countries (some of which are full time shooting teams) and about the same number of Australian domestic shooters. Until you have been there it is hard to understand the pressure that this environment creates. It provides a platform to test yourself in difficult circumstances, with challenging matches against the best shooters in the world.

The Kiwi machine gunners, LCPL Stack (2 Cant NMWC), LCPL Lupi, LCPL Harrison and Corporal Mark Duncan (7 WNHB) did very well firing a CQB match, including prone, kneeling and standing unsupported with the 7.62mm GPMG, and two other matches out to 400 metres and 600 metres respectively. These matches are not designed for a machine gun as solid and heavy as the GPMG, but the NZACST like it for its reliability and accuracy. In skilled hands it can shoot as well with open sights as many LSW with enhanced optics. At the conclusion of the machine gun matches the NZACST achieved six medals out of five matches. CPL Duncan led the way with three gold medals and one silver medal, and LCPL Harrison managed one gold and two bronze.

One of the goal matches for the NZACST this year was the military biathlon. This is a complex and very physical match involving several runs and shooting stands with both pistol and rifle. The NZACST like this match because of its physicality which plays to our strengths. We had six individuals compete in this gruelling match and gained placings of second (LCPL Harrision), third (Private Reed, 2 Cant NMWC), fourth (LCPL Lupi) and ninth (PTE Kocis, 7 WNHB) out of 44 competitors. LCPL Harrison was only one second behind the winner, and did it all after injuring his hamstring during one of the falling plate matches.

The team had mixed results in the fire team/section events. We finished well down the table for the Obstacle Course match and the Team Snap match, which were both goal matches for us. We did however do well in the Barricade Team Championship, which is shot on the weapon simulator (like our Weapon Training Simulator in Waiouru). Here our two fire teams managed a silver medal, which was a good result for many of our new firers.

Our main goal match was, and always will be the prestigious Section Match. This match is important because it highlights the importance of ‘team work’. It takes both individual skill and determination as well as a co-ordinated section led by a commander. Six riflemen and two machine gunners make up the section in two fire teams. The match involves a 2.4 km run, an assault down a classification range, another 1 km run, and then a section defence serial in a mechanical range. The run times for this event are currently quite generous, although this is likely to change for next year. Faster runs will suit us better as we are usually the fittest team at the competition.

Our section was the first section to start, commanded by LCPL Lupi. The first run was completed with about five minutes to spare which left heaps of time to prepare on the mound, remind each other what serials are coming up and assess the wind strength and value (direction). The assault, from 400m down to 50m went well and after a small delay it was off on

the second run. This was completed with about four minutes to spare, giving time to re-org, another wind assessment and then prepare for the onslaught of targets. This final stage involves 33 exposures between 100m and 400m and includes exposures with multiple targets up at once. It is very fast and challenging, but went well for our team. Then it was a waiting game for results as the match took two days to complete. At the conclusion we had won gold with 2260 points, 100 points ahead of second placed Australia, making the victory all the sweeter.

Overall there were mixed results but a good experience for all the team members. There were some outstanding individual performances from LCPL Harrison who medalled in each discipline (that is, with each weapon system) and totalled 10 medals. Other good performances were from LCPL Lupi who was awarded eight medals and CPL Duncan, seven medals. The total count for the team this year was 17 medals in all (see medal count list for breakdown). All team members will now return to their units and pass on their new skills and knowledge to their peers.

The NZACST will be deploying to AASAM 2013 next May and is looking for personnel to register interest. If you are interested in competing and winning against the best combat shooters in the world, contact previous NZACST team members to discuss further and then register your interest through the chain of command.

armysuccess07issue 432 | June 2012

Medal Count

Match 53 Section Matc Gold (8 pers)

Match 48 LSW Teams Aggregate Gold (2 pers)

Match 207 Sniper Service Rifle Gold

Match 140 LSW Assault Gold

Match 47 LSW Individual Aggregate Gold

Match 65 Weapons Simulator Match Silver (8 pers)

Match 87 ANZAC Teams Championship Silver (13 pers)

Match 201 Sniper Snap Silver (2 pers)

Match 210 Sniper Championship Silver (2 pers)

Match 208 Sniper Service Pistol Silver

Match 41 LSW Application Silver

Match 61 Military Biathlon Silver

Match 61 Military Biathlon Bronze

Match 61 Military Biathlon Bronze

Match 41 LSW Application Bronze

Match 47 LSW Individual Aggregate Bronze

Match 200 Sniper Badge Test Bronze

Nations Represented at the CompetitionNew Zealand, Australia (Australia A and Australia B teams)

Brunei, Canada, French Forces New Caledonia, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor –Leste, United Kingdom and United States of America (US Army and US Marine Corp)

NZACST 2012 Team:

Team Captains

Major Pat Edmonds HQ TRADOC

Lt Kurt Andersen 2 CSSB

Coach

WO2 Paul Mumm NZCTC

Manager

SSgt Kate McGregor HQ TRADOC

Firers

CPL Mark Duncan 7 WNHB

LCPL Mark Lupi 7 WNHB

CPL Ben Wilkin 5 WWCT

LCPL Ben Hajdu 16 Fd Regt

LT R. Short 2 CSSB

SGT Matthew Eaton 2 CSSB

LCPL Paris Harrison 2/1 RNZIR

LCPL Geoffrey Stack 2 Cant NMWC

LCPL Darvid Molloy 7 WNHB

LCPL Timothy Watt 2 CSSB

PTE Andre Kocis 7 WNHB

PTE James Ordish 7 WNHB

PTE Samuel Reed 2 Cant NMWC

08armysuccessissue 432 | June 2012

Major Lisa Caulton is the Army’s Singing Dentist, and when she’s not tending the teeth of grateful patients, she’s wowing others with her singing skills.

After competing in the World Championships of Performing Arts in 2011 and winning medals in pop and country singing sections, Major Caulton returned to Waiouru Dental Centre with a yearning to record original rhythm and blues/pop songs.

After a chance meeting with Shele Sondheim, one of the main judges who has produced and worked with Phil Collins, Natalie Cole and Little Richard, preparation for recording sessions began.

Major Caulton has spent six months rehearsing and being tutored over Skype by Shele Sondheim who lives in Los Angeles Hollywood in order to perfect the original Rhythm and Blues / Pop songs that would be recorded. Finally, after much discussion it was decided to record in Roundhead

Studio Auckland, which happens to be Neil Finn’s (Crowded House) recording studio. Major Caulton spent her annual leave recently recording three songs to commercial standards, and they will have the final sound engineering finished in Los Angeles and the United Kingdom. She hopes by the end of this year to have commercially available songs that can be downloaded onto itunes, YouTube and broadcast on New Zealand radio. Time will also be spent presenting her music to record labels in New Zealand, and will be marketed by Shele Sondheim overseas.

Both the Australian and NZ WCOPA national team heard that Shele was coming, and meetings were arranged for a rare opportunity for him to speak to the 2012 teams about what to expect at the World Champs before they depart for Los Angeles in July. Fortuitously Annabelle Fay, an up and coming young NZ artist/song writer, also provided insight into the recording/performing side of being a full time pop singer.

Major Caulton said the highlight of the recording was meeting Tim and Neil Finn for the first time. “They are two iconic musicians who have done much to put New Zealand on the map internationally through their success with Crowded House. Singing in a recording studio is extremely challenging, however having three professionally produced songs, to release has been well worth the effort.”

After sitting down and contemplating the lessons learned from the journey to Los Angeles to recording at Roundhead Studios Major Caulton has a few pearls of wisdom for anyone pursuing competition at a regional, national or international level.

“Irrespective of what your circumstances are don’t let anyone say you can’t do it, practise like you are a winner already, and never ever give up on your dreams. You never know they just might just come true as they have for me.”

she’s BacK - defence diva dentist delights

By Judith MartinGood training and the right attitude go a long way when it comes to achieving success on the

shooting range.But two top scoring Kiwi soldiers believe there’s something else that helped them secure gold.“It is the attitude of the people who train us. They teach techniques but they are always willing

to trial what works for the individual, or to try new ideas. Everyone is always encouraged to try new things,” says Lance Corporal Mark Lupi.

The 7 Wellington and Hawkes Bay Battalion soldier walked away with eight medals from the recent international competition in Australia, and his friend and fellow competitor, Corporal Mark Duncan won seven.

CPL Duncan, a university graduate and member of 7 Battalion’s Bravo Company says the Army team trained for about four weeks before the competition. “We had long days on the range, then a quick dinner and often back to the range for night shooting. On top of the physical side of things, and the shooting, we had to do a lot of mental preparation.”

The team, he says, had a high level of physical fitness which helped with breathing control and subsequently better shots. The importance, however, of being in the right frame of mind when a shot is taken cannot be understated, he says.

“Shooting can be a mental minefield. You really do have to buy into the mental side of the house. If you are not focused 100 per cent you won’t succeed because the competition standard is so high. If you’re not in the right zone you’ll get a hiding from the opposition.”

The men have "mental triggers” and pre-match routines to help get them into the right frame of mind before a shoot. “Triggers” are certain words or actions that help convert a marksman into the right frame of mind.

LCPL Lupi echoes CPL Duncan’s sentiments, and says the pair are lucky coming from 7 Battalion which is well-lead and places a lot of emphasis on shooting.

The coaching the team received from the likes of Warrant Officers Paul Mumm and Chad Hally, and Lieutenant Kurt Andersen was invaluable too.

LCPL Lupi: “Shooting is a science not an art. If your ammo and weapon are good the bullet will do pretty much what it’s meant to do. It’s up to the firer to have the weapon in the right position and pull the trigger so the bullet does the same thing each time.”

The men are most proud of winning the section match, which encompasses all aspects of soldiering. It involved the eight man team firing and manoeuvring down the range, then reorganising themselves, adopting a defensive position and firing at targets out to 400 metres on a mechanical range.

“Considering our resources and the time we get to spend on training we did do pretty well. Kiwi soldiers have good attitudes – they are never defeatist, they’re always trying to win. And they’re highly competitive and staunch. They don’t get over-whelmed; they just crack on with the job at hand.”

the lead up to range shooting success

Top guns: CPL Mike Duncan (left) and LCPL Paris Harrison

Open wide: Major Lisa Caulton with a patient. Major Caulton with (left) Shele Sondheim and Neil Finn.

armysuccess09issue 432 | June 2012

cpl hepi nzdf’s top sportsperson

Army Physical training Instructor and Touch rugby player Corporal Eugene Hepi is the New Zealand Defence Force’s Outstanding Sportsperson of the Year.

He has represented the NZ Army, NZDF, Manawatu Region and New Zealand, and has coached the NZ Army Open Men’s team. Last June he was selected to attend the 2011 International Federation of Touch World Cup in Scotland in the NZ Mixed 30’s team. Judges felt CPL Hepi demonstrates commitment as a player, mentor and coach; through his achievements, passion, athletic ability and support to the code. The 2011 NZDF Sports Awards were announced at a function on Friday 25 May.

The other nominee was LAC Amy Hatcher from the Royal New Zealand Air Force whose chosen sport is Full Bore Rifle Shooting.

The Individual Sportsperson of the Year is: SGT Leo Wiapo who represents both the NZDF and RNZAF in basketball. He captained and coached the RNZAF Woodbourne Basketball team in the top Marlborough Basketball division. The RNZAF team won Inter-Services and Leo’s leadership and dominance on the court led him to be appointed vice captain of the NZDF Men’s team and captain on the court. He plays as a member of the Marlborough Magic provincial team.

The other nominees were CPOSA Daniel Mau’afu who captained the RNZN Dolphins rugby league team, and WO2 Greg Mildon who has represented NZDF and NZ Army Touch rugby as a player, coach, manager, and administrator.

The Sports Official of the Year is: Flight Sergeant Michael Thomas who has been involved in Softball as a coach, committee member and mentor for Base Ohakea, the RNZAF and the NZDF. He has been selector for the RNZAF and took on the role of coach for NZDF where he guided his team to a victory over the ADF Softball team.

The other nominees were CPOMED Simon Vissers, RNZN Rugby Football, and SGT Rebecca Dymock, Army Softball.

The NZDF Sports Team of the Year is: NZDF Men’s Hockey. The NZDF men’s Hockey team has gone from strength to strength and continue to perform to the highest standards. In 2011 NZDF Hockey toured to Australia to compete in a three match Trans-Tasman test series. Four games were played in five days and the NZDF team won all four games.

The other nominees were NZDF Rugby League and the NZDF Men’s Softball team.

The Sports Award luncheon was hosted by Colonel Howard Duffy, with VCDF Rear Admiral Jack Steer representing the Chief of Defence Force. The guest speaker was New Zealand Olympian Hamish Carter, who gave an entertaining yet insightful speech about the challenge of climbing back from failure, to win.

The NZDF Sports Committee Executive thanks the following organisations for their continued support to the NZDF Sports Awards:

Lumley General Insurance•NZ Uniforms•Hills Hats ltd•FLAUNT•Armed Forces Canteen Council•gen-I•

VCDF Rear Admiral Jack Steer presents the top trophy to CPL Hepi.

Sergeant Major of the Army, Warrant Officer Class One Danny Broughton with Ziggy Ziarno.

SMA, WO1 Broughton presents a certificate to Staff Sergeant Abe Pourau.Sergeant Rebecca Dymock receives her certificate from the Assistant Chief of Personnel, Commodore Kevin Keat.

010armysuccessissue 432 | June 2012

exercise alam halfa – a commanding officers view

Exercise Alam Halfa, the largest army exercise for many years provided Lieutenant Colonel Glenn King the ideal opportunity to command a Multi-National Task Group (TG) within a Joint Task Force (JTF) setting.

Usually Commanding Officer of 1st Battalion RNZIR, LTCOL King says the aims and objectives for the exercise were bold yet deliberate, and allowed land force elements to exercise in a way that it hadn’t done for some time.

“As a lieutenant I participated in about four Brigade level field exercises. It was more common then, and with only one operational deployment on at the time we were able to plan, prepare, and then conduct these large field training exercises. They gave you a good appreciation of both time and space, and the terrain required for main defensive positions and Brigade Support Areas. Nowadays it is more difficult to conduct regular large scale exercises, and the fact we were able to achieve what we did on Exercise Alam Halfa with up to 1100 personnel in TG 651 alone, is testament to the efforts of the planners and participants involved.”

LT COL King was under no illusions that it would be a significant challenge for all Task Elements to come together in a Joint, Combined Arms setting and operate as a cohesive force.

“I spent some time with TG 21 (2/1 RNZIR) on Exercise Southern Reaper last year and it was plain to see that their TG Command and Control (C2) made significant improvements as the exercise progressed. My key expectation for Exercise Alam Halfa was to achieve incremental improvements each day, primarily around managing information to allow effective decision making. From the outset I re-iterated to the TG Command Teams and staff that we were in the crawl-walk phase of the training path, and therefore we do have some time to learn new things and in many cases re-learn.”

As part of JTF 65 under command of Colonel Chris Parsons, Task Group (TG) 651 consisted of W and D Coy initially, with A Coy 1 RNZIR joining the fray mid exercise. Combat Support consisted of 161 Battery and 2 Field Squadron, with 1 (NZ) Signals Regiment, 1 (NZ) Military Intelligence

Company and 1 (NZ) Military Police Company providing significant support. 2 and 3 Combat Service Support Battalions provided a Combat Service Support Team, and 2 Health Services Battalion provided 1st Line medical support. Often covering vast distances (at one stage the TG was spread from Kaingaroa Forrest to Bridge Pa), maintaining effective C2 was always going to be a challenge for the TG, in particular the HQ.

“Our Regimental Signals Officer Lieutenant Matt Blake and his team, together with the operations staff worked very hard to ensure effective communications were first achieved then maintained. While not always successful, they never gave up and explored numerous options right to the end. We were also able to rely on the Task Elements understanding their role in the plan through the orders process, and trust them to do what was required. This

generally worked out all right, again recognising that we made improvements as the exercise progressed.”

A benefit of an exercise of this scale is the ability to practise the full spectrum of combined arms training not readily available during most company level exercises. “Sub units in 1 RNZIR conduct regular exercises with 16 Field Regiment and 2 Engineer Regiment. They don’t however get routine exposure to working the medical chain from the point of casualty to the closest medical facility, or have Military Police and Intelligence operators available for Tactical Site Exploitation. Having a CSST forces you to plan well and not assume away the problem with a fuel card. It was in these areas that I think we learnt a lot. Also having three air frames from 3 Squadron RNZAF working with us provided options when developing our plans, whether it was for the insert of recon patrols, AME or aerial re-supply.”

LT COL King relished the experience and is adamant that both exercise planners and participants would have learnt a lot from this experience. “Personally I got a lot from the exercise. It confirmed for me that we should better align our processes in both garrison and in the field through common tools and standard operating procedures. It re-affirmed for me that we are good at operating at company level and need to practise and exercise more effectively, through both CPX and field exercises at the TG level. Importantly our officers and soldiers have shown that they can operate effectively in complex operating environments. It was a shame the weather was so good throughout, as that would have added another dimension”.

Nursing Officer Nicole Houlahan discusses the arrival of a patient with air crew.

A mud model is used during Orders.

The final assault.

Soldiers extract a cartridge case from a light gun.

10armysuccessissue 432 | Junes 2012

armysuccess011issue 432 | June 2012

private andrew army’s top recruitA Tauranga line mechanic who enjoyed being a Territorial

Force soldier so much he joined the Regular Force is the Army’s latest top recruit.

Private Laurie Andrew, 43, graduated this week from the All Arms Recruit Course in Waiouru. The Top Recruit award is presented to the recruit who has displayed a consistent effort in all areas of training which consists of weapons handling, field craft, drill, physical training and also demonstrates leadership in a field environment and in barracks.

PTE Andrew who is married with two sons aged 16 and 13, joined 6 Hauraki Battalion and served for two years. “I enjoyed it so much I decided to make the Army my fulltime job.”

As a registered line mechanic he built power lines, erected power poles and drove trucks.

Now based in Linton, he is a driver with the Army’s Royal New Zealand Logistics Regiment.

Other awards presented at the AARC 363 were:The • BDR Alex MacDonald Memorial Trophy was awarded to the winning Section Commander of the winning Skill At Arms section. This was Corporal Eddie Ballas RNZEThe • Mo're-hu Ge-Dye Memorial Trophy was presented to the recruit who gained the highest individual score during Exercise Warrior. This award recognises the immense effort and skill that a recruit contributes to the team. This was awarded to PTE J.E. Colton, RNZAMCThe • Top Shot is awarded to the recruit who attained the highest score on the Individual Weapon Steyr Annual

Qualification Shoot. This was awarded to Signaller S.M. Loader RNZSIGSThe • Most Improved Recruit is awarded to the recruit from each platoon who has displayed the most marked improvement throughout the course. These awards were presented to :

PTE Daniel Liddington, RNZALR, Hinton VC Platoon xPTE Daniel Shelton, RNZALR, Ngarimu VC Platoon xPTE Kallum Brown, RNZALR, Upham VC and Bar xPlatoonPTE Sydney Bailey, RNZALR, Elliot VC Platoon x

The • Top Recruit Each Platoon is awarded to the recruit from each platoon who has displayed the highest level of achievement and potential throughout the course:

PTE Catherine Wood, RNZALR, Hinton VC Platoon xPTE Laurie. Andrew, RNZALR, Ngarimu VC Platoon xPTE Ashley Hickman, RNZALR, Upham VC and Bar xPlatoonPTE Dearna Graves, RNZALR, Elliot VC Platoon x

Sergeant Major of the Army Award• is presented to the soldier who has consistently demonstrated and applied the NZ Army ethos and values and is willing to put their mates before themselves. It was awarded to PTE Jack Colton, RNZAMC

Recruits show their skills learned on course.

Private Laurie Andrew receives his award from Brigadier Tim Gall.

armysuccess11issue 432 | June 2012

12armynewsissue 432 | June 2012

ready, aBle and rearing to go: the army’s enhanced infantry company

By Major Brad Taylor, Officer CommandingIn late 2011, as a result of the Defence White Paper, 1RNZIR

was directed to establish an Enhanced Infantry Company (EIC) for the NZ Army. EIC was to encompass the existing high-readiness Company, then held by A Company 2/1 RNZIR, but also have the additional tasks of supporting 1 NZSAS Regt worldwide and conducting independent operations within the South-West Pacific. In order to best achieve this, a combined arms grouping was formed for training, based on A Company, 1RNZIR and enablers from Support Company 1RNZIR, 161 Battery, 2 Field Squadron, and 2 Military Police – 90 personnel in total.

TrainingIn February 2012, EIC conducted Block 1 enhanced

infantry training in Auckland. Consisting of three separate packages— amphibious training, airmobile training and urban operations— this was delivered under the watchful eye of members of 1NZSAS Regt. The amphibious training was somewhat challenging, as it took soldiers and placed them well out of their comfort zone operating in small boats around the islands of the Hauraki Gulf by day and night. Being saturated head to toe was par for the cause.

The urban fighting package enhanced our skills at fighting within built up areas and within buildings. It consisted predominantly of live firing within buildings. In addition, training focused on method of entry and movement within the urban environment.

The Air mobile package practised us in deploying from the UH1H by swarm roping, casting or hover jumping by day. The live helo descents were definitely the highlight of the training with some members descending from up to 90 feet.

At the completion of the training the EIC returned to Linton to undertake some intensive training in a collective environment. This included less-than-lethal training where members received training in weapon systems not frequently used by NZDF soldiers, while being introduced to OC Spray – without even having to upset the police. The key to maintaining the skills acquired has been establish to a training routine which includes weekly live firing, urban operations and regular access to resources such as helicopters and boats.

D-DayAll the training came into effect early on a Thursday morning

when EIC conducted a raid on the UCV facility in Waiouru as part of Exercise Alam Halfa. We were tasked to capture or neutralise two High-Value Targets (HVT) from within a non-permissive village. To assist in this task, EIC was assigned four UH1H, additional sniper pairs, a Cavalry Platoon from Whiskey Company and some zulu LAV from QAMR. The target personnel were holed up within a compound consisting of a three storey building and a high perimeter fence, designated A1. Prior to H-hour, Two Platoon A Company patrolled through the night to set up two observation posts to track enemy movement in and around the village and, on command, establish the inner cordon supported by Recon and Snipers.

On H-hour, elements from Two Platoon established the inner cordon around A1 and contained the HVT’s within. Immediately upon setting the inner cordon One Platoon conducted the assault on the target building. The large perimeter fence surrounding A1 was breached by callsign “Juggernaught”, the new 2ER armoured HEMMI. This allowed clearance of the satellite building by half of One Platoon that followed it in with NZLAV. As the threat elements were being distracted by the monster knocking at the front gate, the remainder of One Platoon swarm-roped to the rear of the building. They gained access into the compound via a NZLAV and ladder, and entered the building on the second-floor. Surprise was achieved and both targets were located and processed.

The raid was a success in that both HVTs were neutralised and the entire task group withdrawn off the position to an assembly area.

The follow-upSince then the training has not stopped. EIC has continued to

develop the capability by undertaking further live field firing, amphibious and urban operations training. Tactics, training and procedures as well as Standard Operating Procedures are being produced by the current members of EIC to support this unique organisation. The next goal is to master the learned skills by night, to include swarm roping, as well as urban and amphibious live firing. Block 2 training is currently underway which will see the numbers of initially trained personnel grow

to around 120. This year has been an intense year so far for the members of EIC with a lot of time away training. However the training has being exciting and with few complaints. The battle handling exercise as part of Exercise Alam Halfa was a good chance to practise our individual skills collectively within a complex problem. EIC is ready, should it be needed. In the meantime, we are still working to further enhance our skills.

Members of the EIC swarming from 90ft during Block 1

At the completion of the training EIC returned to Linton to undertake some intensive training to employ these individual skills in a collective environment. This included less-than-lethal training where members received training in weapon systems not frequently used by NZDF soldiers, while being introduced to OC Spray – without even having to upset the police. The key to maintaining the skills acquired has been establishing a training routine which includes weekly live firing, urban operations and regular access to resources such as helicopters and boats.

D-Day

All this training came into effect early on a Thursday morning when EIC conducted a raid on the UCV facility in Waiouru as part of Exercise Alam Halfa. We were tasked to capture or neutralise two High-Value Targets (HVT) from within a non-permissive village. In addition, EIC was assigned four

EIC personnel swarming from 90ft during Block 1

Members of the EIC ‘Rafting Up’ on the Hauraki Gulf during Block 1

12armysuccessissue 432 | June 2012

armytraining13issue 432 | June 2012

ready, aBle and rearing to go: the army’s enhanced infantry company

ereBus medals presentedThe Chief of the NZ Army, Major General Tim Keating, presents the NZ Special Service medal (Erebus) to retired former LCPL Alan Robert Richardson RNZCT while his wife Anne-Marie looks on.

The Rev Kirsty MacDonald holding the NZSSM (Erebus)and her daughter (Bronwyn Allnutt) holding the NZDSM which was also presented at the ceremony.

The Chief of the NZ Army, Major General Tim Keating, presented the NZ Special Service medal (Erebus) to retired former Lance Corporal Alan Robert Richardson RNZCT, during a ceremony at the NZ Army’s Kensington Army Hall in Dunedin recently. Mr Robertson was presented the medal in recognition of his service during the very difficult and often hazardous work he was involved in during the recovery of victims of the 1979 Air New Zealand Erebus disaster in Antarctica.

Mr Richardson had been originally deployed on Operation Deep Freeze to the United States Antarctic Programme at Camp Byrd earlier in November 1979 and after the Air NZ DC-10, registered ZK-NZP, crashed into the side of nearby Mt Erebus, he played an active part along with a large contingent of New

Lieutenant Colonel Darren Beck, New Zealand’s Military Advise in Canberra, presented two former 1 RNZIR soldiers and Vietnam veterans with their Defence Service medals recently. He presented the medals to Peter Ramsay (left) and Kevin Bovill (right) at a ceremony in Perth. Mr Bovill served in Borneo as well as Vietnam.

Zealand Army, RNZAF and Police personal tasked with the job of recovering bodies and investigating the cause of the disaster which killed all 237 passengers and 20 crew on board.

And the Commander HQ DJTF(L) Colonel Phil McKee, presented the NZ Special Service medal (Erebus) and the NZDSM to the Rev Kirsty MacDonald, wife of the late Corporal Brownie Ashby RNZCT, during a ceremony in the Red Diamond Room at 2/1RNZIR recently. The Rev MacDonald was presented the medal in recognition of Brownie's service during the recovery of Erebus victims.

CPL Ashby deployed to the Antarctica on 29 Novemebr 1979 the day following the Air NZ DC-10, registered ZK-NZP, crashed into the side of nearby Mt Erebus.

armysuccess13issue 432 | June 2012

14armydeploymentsissue 432 | June 2012

Kiwis in the snow Operation Antarctica is, at its highest point each year,

New Zealand’s second largest mission. The Antarctic Treaty was signed by 12 nations, including

New Zealand, in 1959. The Treaty remains in force indefinitely and the original signatories have been joined by many others, bringing the total to 49 countries representing 80% of the world’s population. The Treaty’s primary aims are to:

demilitarise Antarctica; •establish it as a zone free of nuclear tests and the •disposal of radioactive waste; ensure that it is used for peaceful purposes only; •promote international scientific cooperation in •Antarctica; and set aside disputes over territorial sovereignty.•

The New Zealand Defence Force conducts a range of surveillance, patrol, resource protection, and border security tasks within its maritime zone and the Southern Ocean, and achieves this by operating aircraft and ships into the Southern Ocean and Ross Dependency.

The Air Force’s C130s have, for many years, been operating into Antarctica and they were recently joined by the Boeing 757. The RNZN has started testing their Offshore Patrol Vessels in the Southern Ocean, with HMNZS Wellington completing the first deployment to McMurdo

Sound in February 2011. RNZAF P3Ks also undertake surveillance and are often called upon to conduct SAR tasks, such as the Sparta Russian fishing vessel mission in December 2011.

Antarctica NZ is responsible for managing New Zealand’s presence on the ice and this small organization with modest funding relies on its partnership with the NZDF to achieve a year-round presence and field science programme at Scott Base. If the NZDF were not involved, the nature of New Zealand’s Antarctic effort would have to drastically change.

The NZDF has a long tradition of sharing logistic and other resources with the United States Antarctic Programme. NZDF personnel are flown to Antarctica in USAF C17s, New Zealand stores are shipped to Antarctica in the US supply vessel and fuel is transported south in a US tanker.

NZDF personnel apply their specialist trade skills in the extreme, remote environment that is Antarctica, which is an invaluable training ground.

Our People in AntarcticaDuring the 2011/12 summer season, 170 NZDF personnel

deployed to Antarctica, from all three NZDF services. Most provided support to the United States logistics pool.

The team spending most time in Antarctica is the Scott

– maKing an impact in antarctica

By LTCDR David Washer

Base Support Team. The SNO is responsible for all NZDF personnel in xAntarctica and also has a civilian role within Antarctica NZ as the Operations Scheduler.The Cargo Handler is an Air Force SNCO in a sole charge xposition managing all cargo and passenger movements into and out of Scott Base.Two Army Plant Operators drive the heavy plant xmachinery at Scott Base and have an important role in managing snow clearance early in the season.A vital role at Scott Base is Communications Operator. xThese four people are at the core of Scott Base operations and the voice on the radio or telephone for those on field operations and people contacting Scott Base from NZ or the rest of the World. It is vital that Comms Ops can communicate appropriately with a diverse range of people, so they need excellent verbal communication and interpersonal skills.The Light Engineering Team is based at the US’s •McMurdo Station and their time on ice and trade make-up varies each season, depending on the tasks they are required to complete. Last summer 17 engineers spent two months in Antarctica, the previous season it was four people for five weeks. They do great work at McMurdo in some of the most extreme weather

armydeployments15issue 432 | June 2012

Kiwis in the snow By LT Patrick Bloodworth, Troop Commander ,25 Engineer Support Squadron

In late 2011 I was offered the once in a lifetime opportunity to plan and lead the annual Light Engineer Team deployment to McMurdo Station Antarctica.

The Light Engineer Team is part the New Zealand contribution to the reciprocal program that helps provide logistics support to both McMurdo Station and Scott Base. Our role was to help the United States Antarctic Program reduce the building footprint of McMurdo Station by deconstructing a number of old buildings and salvaging or recycling the material.

What struck me as I stepped off the C17, onto the frozen Ross Sea, is the unbelievable enormity of the landscape. The ice stretches on forever and the massive mountain ranges in the distance seem to be slowly creeping closer to you. While harsh and sometimes unbelievably cold, Antarctica holds some amazing sights. One of my personal highlights of the deployment was walking among the pressure ridges at Scott Base, a frozen labyrinth of upswept sea ice crushed against Ross Island by the movement of the Ross Glacier.

The dual professional highlights of my trip were the opportunity to live and work with the Americans and the high degree of autonomy granted by being based out of McMurdo Station. The Americans were very welcoming and appreciative of the work conducted by the New Zealand Defence Force. As a junior officer, I really enjoyed the chance to deploy overseas with an independent troop to accomplish a given set of tasks, working with the Troop Junior NCO’s and American contractors to overcome the various issues we encountered.

an icy deployment

conditions in the world.The US Supply Department at McMurdo is assisted •by NZDF personnel deployed as the General Assistant Team. Last season they were in two groups, the first group of seven spending almost the whole season in Antarctica. The second group spent two weeks at McMurdo Station, arriving in time to assist with cargo vessel stores distribution. They consistently perform well and receive high praise from their US colleagues. In February each year a cargo vessel delivers stores •to McMurdo Station and Scott Base. As part of our commitment to the logistic pool, NZDF personnel assist the offload in two elements, the Driver Support Team and the Ship Offload Team. The Driver Support Team operate eleven 1960s xvintage trucks, carrying containers between the wharf and McMurdo or Scott Base. They deploy in two elements, the first arriving two weeks before the ship offload to move containers destined for the US or NZ, to the wharf area. When the remaining eleven arrive they operate two shifts of 12 hours each. The Ship Offload Team of 25 people work as part of a xmulti-national team moving containers between the vessel and trucks in two 12 hour shifts.

An RNZAF Airdrop Rigging Team helps USAF C17 crews •maintain currency in airdrop operations at the South Pole. The team deploys for around 10 days to rig loads at McMurdo Station. Excellent experience.Let’s not forget the Harewood Terminal Team in •Christchurch, whose job it is to manage all airborne passengers and cargo to and from Antarctica. While they do not deploy to Antarctica, they are integral to our partnership with the USAP.

Without this commitment, New Zealand’s Antarctic aspirations would be far more difficult to achieve. The NZDF has been exceptionally well represented by those deploying to Antarctica in recent years and the ethos and work ethic of our people invariably draws positive comment from USAP authorities. Many of these roles are not trade or rank specific so, if you would like to be part of this unique mission, talk with your supervisor or career manager.

LSTWD Theresia Muller on sea ice with pressure ridges behind

16armynewsissue 432 | June 2012

THE RANKIN FILE

On 19 April 2012 Captain Alastair Rankin was asked, as the senior serving member of the Papanui RSA, to present other members of the club with their NZDSM. As part of the ceremony he was also to be presented his own NZDSM. Among the recipients were his older brothers Ian and Stioux. When it came to their turn ceremony was invented as they presented each other in a ‘round robin’ fashion where one read the citation while the second pinned the medal on the third then they changed round.

Pictured: Gunner, Captain and Leading Electrical Mechanic Rankin with NZDSMs

Ian Rankin joined the RNZN as a ‘Recruit, Electrical’ in January 1964. Following a year in training he was posted to HMNZS ROTOITI - then a month later, a pier head jump to LACHLAN for about two years.

After a six month spell in PHILOMEL Ian was posted to the OTAGO for one and a half years, followed by six months in the dockyard at the Ship Maintenance Coordinating Authority.

Another two and a half years in LACHLAN completed his eight year contract with the Royal New Zealand Navy.

Stewart (Stioux) Rankin joined the Amy as a Regular Force Cadet in January 1965 and graduated into the Royal New Zealand Artillery in December that year.

He transferred from the Regular Force to the Active Reserve in November 1971 as a Gunner.

During that time he served in posts throughout New Zealand and abroad. The excellent computer skills demonstrated

by Ruatoria’s Carlos Paenga (11) won him first place in Operation Anzac Spirit, a poster competition run by the New Zealand Defence Force as part of Anzac Day.

Almost 250 entries were received during the competition, which asked Year 7 and 8 students to design and create a poster showing Anzac Day in their communities.

New Zealand Defence Force Artist Captain (CAPT) Matt Gauldie judged the competition, and said selecting a winner was difficult as there were many entries that stood out.

“Carlos’s poster showed off his excellent computer skills and his ability to create a well constructed and thought-out piece of art. Carlos’s use of special effects and the transposing of one image through another have allowed him to show several different aspects of Anzac Day on his poster,” CAPT Gauldie said.

The top three winners were presented with their prizes by New Zealand Defence Force Chief of Staff Air Commodore (AIRCDRE) Mike Yardley at a prizegiving ceremony at Defence House today.

AIRCDRE Yardley said the quality of the posters was outstanding, and it was encouraging to see so many young New Zealanders learning about Anzac Day and how it is commemorated by entering the competition.

On 19 April 2012 Captain Alastair Rankin was asked, as the senior serving member of the Papanui RSA, to present other members of the club with their NZDSM. As part of the ceremony he was also to be presented his own NZDSM. Among the recipients were his older brothers Ian and Stioux. When it came to their turn ceremony was invented as they presented

the ranKin file

January 1964. Following a year in training he was posted to HMNZS ROTOITI - then a month later, a pier head jump to LACHLAN for about two years.

After a six month spell in PHILOMEL Ian was posted to the OTAGO for one and a half years, followed by six months in the dockyard at the Ship Maintenance Coordinating Authority.

Another two and a half years in LACHLAN completed his eight year contract with the Royal New Zealand Navy.

Stewart (Stioux) Rankin joined the Amy as a Regular Force Cadet in January 1965 and graduated into the Royal New Zealand Artillery in December that year.

He transferred from the Regular Force to the Active Reserve in November 1971 as a Gunner.

During that time he served in posts throughout New Zealand and abroad.

During his Army time Stioux completed two tours in South Vietnam.

Alastair (Al) Rankin joined the Army as a Regular Force Cadet in January 1967 and graduated to Royal New Zealand Signals in December that year.

He retired from the Regular Force in December 1988 as a Warrant Officer Class II. During that time he served in many posts throughout New Zealand and abroad.

He then Joined the Territorial Force with the 2nd Canterbury, Nelson, Marlborough, West Coast Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment and retired as a Captain in 1997.

Al rejoined the Regular Force in 2001 where he still serves. Currently he is the Southern Area Co-ordinator for New Zealand Cadet Forces.

He has served overseas in Singapore, Sinai and Cambodia.The only time all three served together was during the Fire

Service strikes in Christchurch in 1974 when NZDF Firemen were called in to man Christchurch Central Fire Station while Al was in the watch-room on the radios.

st John award for new zealand army Band

letter to the editor

St John New Zealand has presented the New Zealand Army Band Director of Music Captain Graham Hickman with a special Priory award recognising the great contribution that the band has made to the Order of St John in New Zealand.

Over many years the New Zealand Army Band has supported ceremonial and celebratory functions for St John in New Zealand.

In receiving the award from St John it was noted that the level of support provided by the band has been outstanding and the professionalism, skill and performance excellence displayed by the band is always apparent. This was highlighted during St John’s 125 year celebrations when they performed at several key events in the presence of the Grand Prior HRH Richard Duke of Gloucester.

The award was presented to the band by Geoff Ridley, Chair, South Island Region Trust Board and Jaimes Wood, St John Chief Executive.

each other in a ‘round robin’ fashion where one read the citation while the second pinned the medal on the third then they changed round.

Pictured: Gunner, Captain and Leading Electrical Mechanic Rankin with NZDSMs

Ian Rankin joined the RNZN as a ‘Recruit, Electrical’ in

Editor,I would like to publicly thank all those wonderful soldiers,

sailors, airmen and women, and Defence civilian employees who have contributed to the following individuals, organisations and fund raising activities by donating money, time and blood: The Leukaemia and Blood Cancer Foundation, Cancer Society of New Zealand, New Zealand Blood Donor Service, Sally Blackler and her team walking for Canteen, and Dave Wills and his Sky City Challenge— I have been the recipient of your aroha and generosity.

As I recover from a gruelling 12 month regime of chemotherapy and a bone marrow transplant during which I received support and blood products from the above organisations I think it most appropriate that I make it known to you all just how appreciative recipients like myself are of your generosity. Knowing that people like you have made an effort greatly assisted me with my recovery and for this I thank you.

Thank you and God bless you all WO1 Mark S. Priestley MNZM, RNZALR

defence poster competition won By ruatoria student

Next month's issue of Army News eill run the winning poster. x

armytraining17issue 432 | June 2012

the value of the army reserve is in the future, not its history

Five infantry sections from B Coy, 7WnHB Bn Gp conducted a close country patrolling exercise in Wairarapa from 25-27 May 2012. Ex Tebaga Gap practised these 5 sections in battle procedure, standing patrols, clearing patrols and quick attacks in a company level tactical scenario.

The operational context was enhanced by the integration of intelligence support, comms support from Wellington based RNZSigs reservists, and B Coy’s organic transport element.

B Coy has been working to achieve both high turn outs and a high quality of product. There is no silver bullet or special formula for this success. We focus on the basics of direction, communication and the imagination to adapt it to present-day TF circumstances. This is all underlined by trust that it is being executed at all levels.

JNCOs have been the main effort of this development. At the beginning of the month, Coy HQ passed orders to the Pl Comds who then quickly gave orders to the Section Commanders to ensure the JNCOs had the full two thirds available for planning and preparation. Their appreciation process was aided by a comprehensive ground brief delivered by reservist intelligence analysts currently under training.

This flowed through to rehearsals and further battle prep conducted at a night parade and on the Saturday morning of the exercise proper. The effort put into the battle prep phase was evident when the sections met planned timings to deploy on their tasks with the necessary resources.

The scenario had the sections patrol to and establish standing patrols on key track intersections in Ngaumu Forest. This formed the basis for the company to disrupt insurgents withdrawing from south to north in groups of two to three. Numerous contacts were initiated overnight with the sections then lifting up at first light to conduct clearing patrols and dominate the AO.

Coordinating these independent patrols provided an opportunity for junior officers to learn about Command Post (CP) procedures. The platoon commanders and Company headquarters ran the CP during the tactical phase. Reservist RNZSigs provided comms support from the outset, by running lessons for the infantry section sigs, and then establishing the comms net. The RNZSigs said that working with an infantry company added realism to their training not available during corps-only training. A group of senior lieutenants also undertook some preparatory lessons ahead of their Grade 3 Course beginning in June.

Integrating all these elements was not without its frictions. But it is better to overcome these challenges in training rather than on operations. It addition to realism, an operational focus gives everyone a sense of purpose.

Troops train in the smoke…

…the bush

…and gather together as the exercise finishes.

18armypeopleissue 432 | June 2012

high risk group which has a high suicide rate. Since our defence force is made up of a wide range of New

Zealanders, it’s inevitable that a proportion of the NZDF will experience some form of mental health issue. It’s important to realise that mental health issues cover a very broad area. NZDF personnel more commonly experience episodes of stress, depression, or anxiety.

Although stress is not a mental illness; chronic (constant or reoccurring) or intense stress can often lead to the development of psychological illnesses like depression and/or anxiety. This is why it’s important to monitor you own and others stress levels and seek help if you or they need it.

There are a number of individuals (including leaders) who have suffered from some form of mental health issue and have gone on to be extremely successful. Some of the most well known are Winston Churchill, Abraham Lincoln, Janet Frame, Stephen Fry, Rita Angus, Mike King and Sir John Kirwin.

Sticks and stones...why people don’t seek helpUnfortunately there are a number of negative terms

people use when talking about mental health issues which only promote ignorance. These stigmas can lead to embarrassment, shame, threatened pride or mana and fear. The biggest fear is being judged by others. People constantly worry about how others will see them. All of these act as barriers to talking to someone.

Barriers are reduced when you treat someone who you know or suspect of having mental health issue with respect, concern and non-judgement. Listen, support and urge them to speak

to someone. Another barrier that stops people seeking help in the NZDF is

their beliefs around mental health, many of which are myths. It’s important to dispel these myths so that people are more informed and ready to act if they need to.

myths aBout mental healthSeeing a psych means you have “serious problems”Not true. Some people may have some serious issues they

need to work out but often people simply need to talk things out so that it can make sense in their head. Defence psychs are able to teach people practical strategies to manage the stressors in their life.

People who have mental health issues are weak or brokenNo they aren’t. As already shown there are plenty of people

who have experienced some form of mental health issue in their lifetime and gone on to be successful. Indeed there are plenty of serving NZDF personnel that are, or have, suffered from mental health issues, and continue to perform well in their jobs.

It won’t happen to meThere’s no guarantee and there may come a time when you

experience some form of mental health issue, even if it’s only temporary. Since no one is stress proof this may become a reality for some people reading this article – they key is to be informed, seek help and know that you will be able to work through it.

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By Major Erik Fraser, Serior Psychologist Army

mental health awareness: don’t Bottle it upMental health tends to be discussed in hushed tones

and with sidelong glances, if at all! Yet it is a real issue that statistics show effects thousands of Kiwis every day.

Army conducts several wellbeing programs across NZ on a regular basis. The Trentham wellbeing team has initiated a coordinated wellbeing program involving all agencies in the TDA. The program for 2012 will focus on 10 wellbeing topics over the course of the year. The topic for Trentham and the wider army in June is mental health awareness.

the facts – it’s more common than you thinKThe Ministry of Health has reported that 47% of Kiwis •will experience a mental health issue and/or an addiction at some time in their lives. That’s nearly half the population.In addition, approximately 39% of the New Zealand •population have already experienced some form of mental health issue, with an estimated 20% having experienced a mental health issue in the past 12 months. Younger people are at more risk - one in seven (about •14%) of Kiwis aged between 16 – 24 years of age will experience serious depression in the next 12 months. Middle aged men who are on their own are a potentially •

armypeople19issue 432 | June 2012

Introduce these five simple strategies into youR life and you will feel the benefits.

winning ways to wellbeing

It will get better if I just ignore itNot necessarily. Ignoring the problem or hoping it will go

away can just delay the amount of time it takes to bounce back. Not actually dealing with the situation or issue can prolong it and make the persons life harder for longer.

Admitting it will limit my career The NZDF refers a lot of people every year across services,

trades and ranks. After seeing a psych or counsellor soldiers routinely return to their roles with renewed energy and get on with their lives and careers.

I won’t be able to deployIt depends. Someone experiencing a form of mental health

issue should get that sorted out before they deploy, for themselves and others on the deployment. A number of mental health issues are temporary and many service people have deployed after recovering from a temporary mental health issue.

Others will think “I’m crazy”Actually most people understand and don’t think less of

someone who is going through a rough patch. In fact most workmates, friends, family and command are non-judgemental and supportive. At the end of the day we are all adults who live and work together with shared values.

I can deal with this aloneIt’s really difficult for people experiencing a significant

stressor(s) or form of mental health issue to go it alone completely. Involving others not only improves the likelihood that you will be able to effectively manage what you are going through; your ability to bounce back will be faster if you see or talk to someone than if you go it alone.

psychs, doc’s, padres & cso’s – our role with mental health

Defence psychologists are an often misunderstood bunch but luckily we have a pretty thick skin. Defence psychs are military psychologists and not clinical psychologists.

Defence psychs are trained to use their skills in four general areas to enhance performance, these are:

Assessment and selection •Training design and delivery•Providing advice around performance, organisational •culture, climate and change. Wellbeing - which includes post deployment debriefs, •and command and self referrals.

As part of wellbeing, defence psychs are trained to assess and provide immediate support to people experiencing high levels of stress and/or a mental health issue. We are not qualified to provide ongoing psychological support with specific mental health issues. However, we will help you find and access a qualified clinical psychologist or counsellor who are specifically trained to deal with these issues, and have years of experience working with military personnel.

talKing to usIf someone comes to have a chat with a psych, doctor, padre

or CSO then there a few things you should know. What is said to us is confidential – that is, it stays between us and person we speak to. This is important because people need to feel

their privacy will be maintained. The only reason we would tell anyone else would be if we felt that the person seeing us may harm themselves or someone else. This is also important because just like any other service person, we have a duty of care to our fellow service personnel and are bound to act in a responsible way to ensure their safety.

Generally people are not such high risk to themselves or others. They may be experiencing relationship problems, exposure to something shocking in NZ or on deployment, financial pressure, death of a loved one, family problems, work pressure or general stress. In these cases the person would benefit from seeing a trained professional who can help them work through the issue and we can make this happen.

what you can do...As an NZDF member the best thing you can do is keep an eye

on yourself and come and talk to a psych, doctor, padre or CSO if you feel you are having a hard time and need some support. If you are worried about someone else then encourage them to seek help.

It’s also important for people to realise that they can speak to people in their immediate command chain at any level in the organisation. Most experienced military personnel understand how to handle these situations and will do everything they can to help. Remember if you are struggling, or your mate is, then do something about it – talk to someone.

If you want to know more about mental health, then you can go to the resources below. However, if you have any concerns about yourself or someone else, you should speak to your local psych, padre, doctor, or community service officer.

external resources Websites: www.depression.org.nzwww.mentalhealth.org.nzwww.thelowdown.co.nzwww.headspace.org.nz/young-people/cool-links.htm

The following are normal reactions to stress and a person may display one or several of these signs.

Poor sleep (waking during the night)

Feeling unable to cope with daily life demands

Withdrawal from normal activities and/or people

Inappropriate expression of emotions (excessive anger, guilt, tearfulness, fear)

Constant tirednessOver-eating or lack of appetite

Poor concentration and/or memory

Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness

Continual worry and/or feeling anxious

Struggle to maintain positive personal relationships

Negative self image and outlook on life

Muscle tension and/or physical complaints

20armypeopleissue 432 | June 2012

oBservations from a Kiwi at the u.s. army war college

The mission of the U.S. Army War College is to develop, inspire, and serve strategic leaders for the wise and effective application of national power, in a joint, interagency, intergovernmental, and multinational environment, emphasizing development and employment of land power. It is organized and tasked to provide: education for select military, civilian, and international leaders, and support for worldwide practitioners. It conducts research, and publishes to inform thought as well as supports the Army's strategic communication efforts. It also provides comprehensive well-being education and support

The War College helps develop senior leader competencies necessary for success in the contemporary operational environment that contribute to the development of senior leaders. Of note the War College has a focus on being the only Senior Leader College that addresses the development and employment of land power. It emphasises strategic leadership, and is the only Senior Leader College Distance Education Program that is certified for Joint Professional Military Education.

The Army War College is an impressive world class military educational facility. In addition to the main library, support staff and teaching staff the College is functionally divided into a number of elements from which a student can draw support, skills, and professional knowledge. These are: The Center for Strategic Leadership, the Strategic Studies Institute, the Army Physical Fitness Research Institute, the Peacekeeping and Stability Operations Institute, and the Army Heritage and Education Center.

In April 2010 Colonel John Howard was offered a unique professional opportunity to attend the 12 month residual course of the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, USA. The Army War College is a well-established and internationally recognized professional military institute for the development of senior military leaders. Here he explains what the course is about and what he has gained by working alongside US senior leaders.

In addition to an orientation phase the Army War College course is broken into nine core components. These are: Strategic Thinking, the Theory of War and Strategy, Strategic Leadership, National Security Policy and Plans, Theater Strategy and Campaigning, Defense Enterprise Management, a Strategic Decision Making Exercise, a period of elective study and finally the National Security Seminar. It is a full and professionally rewarding year which offers much for both the International and U.S students.

The student body for my residual course was a very diverse and engaging group. Our class had approximately 340 students (including 50 international officers from 49 select countries). The U.S. students were broadly drawn from U.S. military Active Duty, Reserve, and Guard Forces, along with select Department of Defence, Department of State and Government Security Agencies.

The Army War College is garrisoned inside Carlisle Barracks within the historic provincial town of Carlisle. This is an old town in the heart land of rural Pennsylvania. Over many years the Barracks supported many military operations dating back to the French and Indian wars, the US War of Independence, as well being the scene for some actions of the US Civil War. It is a great environment in which to sharpen the military mind surrounded by such history and opportunity.

I found my American classmates and hosts to be a very warm and welcoming people who opened their doors to all of the international students and their families. In addition many of the U.S. students sought to gain a deeper cultural understanding of who we Internationals were and what we had to offer to them.

My time at the Army War College strongly reinforced to me the great professional value of our officer training and development models from our time at OCS through to Unit command. In particular our Grade Three, Grade Two, and OEB supported by our individual Corps specific formal and informal development is the very bedrock of our Officer Corps. Such training and development allows us as Kiwis to fit into and offer something at all levels in which we may find ourselves throughout our professional military career.

Following graduation in June 2011 I was posted to work in HQ USCENTCOM in Tampa. Now I am finding that every day in my current role I am using much of what I was exposed to at the Army War College. More importantly, the contacts that I made, and the cultural understanding of the big US military machine have been of great assistance here in the conduct of my duties in support of what our troops are doing in country and across the wider area of operations.

MAJ Matt Kerr is currently deployed as a UN Military Liaison Officer in the state of Jonglei, South Sudan.

In the previous UN Mission in Sudan (UNMIS) the role was as a Military Observer but now in the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), the role is as a Military Liaison Officer. “This involves a more intimate and co-operative relationship with local leaders, military and police throughout the country,” says MAJ Kerr.

His role involves patrolling by helicopter to remote towns and villages, spending anywhere from a few hours to a few days, to gain an awareness of the social and security situation, provide advice to security forces, and report back to the mission headquarters.

“The locals now rely on the developing security forces of South Sudan to provide security against cattle raiders and inter-communal raids. That is a work in progress. So often the UN Military Officers are able to bridge the communication gap and provide updates, make return visits, or use UN resources such as helicopter reconnaissance flights to ensure situational awareness and show commitment from the UN to help improve matters.

“Working as an UN Military Officer is incredibly rewarding. I work in a team of twelve Military Liaison Officers from various countries. Despite our different origins, we all speak a common language; that of military professional. The

experiences we go through together here form very strong bonds of comradeship.”

MAJ Kerr also fulfils the role of Operations Officer, where he is responsible for planning the daily patrols and implementing their strategy, which he finds professionally rewarding.

He has experienced a number of challenges on deployment, particularly with the environment. “The temperatures reach 51 degrees in the peak of the dry season, so with 30kg of body armour, water and your patrol equipment you don't last long out there when moving by foot. Now it’s the opposite, the wet season is upon us and moving by vehicle on roads is very difficult, almost impossible in most areas, so we rely on helicopters for insertion to patrol locations.”

It can also be challenging sometimes gaining the trust of the South Sudanese. “On several occasions our patrols have been challenged by armed security forces which leads to some tense moments and requires calmness, quick thinking and friendly discussion to resolve any misunderstanding.”

Summing up his deployment, MAJ Kerr comments that, “The road to success for any new country is a long one, so to be a part of that process, with all its challenges, is very satisfying. Contributing just a small amount to improving another person’s or community’s situation where at times there is little other hope, makes it all worthwhile.”

Major Kerr’s tour of duty finishes in August 2012.•

south sudan

LTCOL John Howard

Major Kerr with two colleagues

MAJ Kerr on patrol in South Sudan

armypeople21issue 432 | June 2012

oBservations from a Kiwi at the u.s. army war college

LTCOL John Howard

Major Kerr with two colleagues

MAJ Kerr on patrol in South Sudan

By Matthew GillardThe daughter of an Italian woman who owes her life to the

heroic actions of an unidentified soldier is trying to trace his next of kin and thank them personally for his benevolence.

The only clue left as to the identity of the soldier, who is now believed to possibly be a New Zealander, (and was previously thought to be British) is a faded black and white photograph of the two young daughters who he left behind. The girls, at the time the photograph was taken, would have been no more than two and four years old, most likely awaiting news from their father while he was away fighting in the Italian campaign.

The search is being led by Mr Harry Shindler, a British Eighth Army veteran of the Italian campaign and representative of the Italy Star Association. Resident in Italy, Mr Shindler is in his nineties and has made it his mission to identify those buried beneath unnamed gravestones, and, in his words, “ending their war”.

Mr Shindler approached the New Zealand Defence Staff London to see if the story and photograph could be published

that Mrs Mancini learned that the soldier’s name was ‘Martin’. He had offered, before the tragic death of Giuseppina, that if she could not care for both children he would adopt one and name her Martina so that he could remember his Italian friend.

Tragically the friendship was not to last. In early 1944 Martin was supposedly killed in action just after Mrs Mancini was released from hospital. She was told that he fell somewhere near the River Sangro in February 1944. However this has not been verified.

Mrs Mancini died in 2008, aged 87, in the same village of Casalanguida where she was saved by Martin and had since spent her whole life. However her daughter, Angela (68) and her granddaughter Katia have now taken up the search for Martin’s children. Angela told The Telegraph newspaper in 2009 that “my mother died last year, but now we want to make her happy and find the final piece of the jigsaw by tracking down the children in the photograph, giving it back to them and most importantly say thank you. If they are still alive, these two girls are in their seventies or eighties, so time is really important and we really want to find them before it is too late.”

From his research, and that of others, Mr Shindler now believes that Martin may have been a New Zealander, attached to either an Artillery Regiment, possibly the 4th, 5th, or 6th Field Regiment, RNZA, or an Ambulance unit, possibly the 4th or 5th Field Ambulance. It is also unclear whether Martin survived the war or whether he was, as described by Mrs Mancini, killed in later fighting. If he was killed then it is likely that he now lies in or near the Sangro River war cemetery. New Zealand Army Museum records indicate three soldiers associated with the name Martin are buried at Sangro. They are Private George Edward Martin, Gunner Owen Collyns Martin, and Private Trevor Martin Kilpatrick.

The search for Martin and his daughters now continues in New Zealand. Mr Shindler has requested that any information that may assist be passed to him via the New Zealand Defence Staff London or the Italy Star Association 1943 – 1945 in London: email - Nicholas.gillard@nzdf.mil.nz

Matthew Gillard is the son of Lieutenant Colonel Nick •Gillard, Military Adviser with the New Zealand Defence Staff London.

relatives of heroic soldier sought

drilling it in

in the New Zealand media just in case someone recognised the girls.

The moving story which was often retold passionately by Maria Mancini to her daughter and granddaughter, began 68 years ago on the front lines of Italy when a soldier known only as ‘Martin’ volunteered to assist after a doctor called his unit with news that Mrs Mancini, aged 22 at the time, was pregnant and required emergency treatment. There was a strong possibility that she might die in labour.

There were fierce snowstorms at the time and the roads were strewn with mines, which, when coupled with the ever present dangers of enemy artillery and eager German snipers, meant the journey was fraught with danger. Martin drove Mrs Mancini to the hospital as fast as his jeep would allow, all the while dodging potholes and enemy fire.

When he finally arrived doctors performed an emergency caesarean and thanks to the bravery of the mysterious and benevolent Martin Mrs Mancini gave birth to twin girls in January 1944.

Tragically only a week after the birth a bitter cold descended on the hospital, forcing the nurses to warm the babies’ cots with bottles of hot water and in a heartbreaking turn of events one of the bottles spilled onto the twins, killing Giuseppina.

While Mrs Mancini and her surviving daughter, Angela, recovered in hospital Martin would often visit them and it was during one of these visits that he gave her the picture of his children. Their friendship would grow stronger over the next few weeks as he visited her and it was from one of these visits

By Nicole MunroWO2 Leon Whitelaw has just returned from Samoa, where

he spent ten days training the Samoan Police Guard in their drill, in preparation for the Samoan 50th Anniversary of Independence celebrations starting on 1 June.

Leon has been in the Army for 24 years, and is currently posted to Burnham as CSM of 3CSC. He was selected for the job in Samoa by WODEF, and left New Zealand on 24 May to start training the 88 Samoan Police personnel.

On his first day there, he was brought into the Police Commissioner’s office.

“The Commissioner said what he wanted from the guard and asked if we could add in some things, like a flag drill. I had to modify the drill slightly, and they had to use drum harnesses for the flags, but it did look sharp in the end.”

The Police had some routines already in place – each morning they would march to open Parliament at 0845. In their ten days with Leon, they continued to open Parliament but instead of going to their regular Police duties afterwards, they would practice their drill until around 1500. Most of the training was carried out at the Police Station or a local school, and often in taxing heat.

Leon said that the Police utilised every available man for the Anniversary Celebrations, which meant that staff were being worked very hard.

“One of the biggest challenges I faced was that they were so busy. As well as practicing, they still had to work as Police. On the day of the 1 June parade, they were formed up at 0600 and standing in the baking sun until we marched off at 0845. They then went on to do traffic duty, provide security at various events, and be on duty at the UB40 concert that night.”

Some of the things that Leon really had to emphasise was getting the timing right for firing of the rounds, dressing and the position of the weapons.

On the day, everything went well. “While on parade on 1 June, I went down the row and said

well done to them all. Seeing the smiles on their faces showed me that they knew they’d done a good job. I saw their pride, and it was a really special day. It was unfortunate that I had to return to New Zealand before they performed their Beat the Retreat on 5 June.”

Leon said working with the guard was hugely rewarding, and he has a lot of respect for the men he got to know well.

“Everyone was so good to me. I was welcomed with open arms, and they educated me on their culture and habits. In the end I think I learned just as much as they did. Overall, it was an incredible experience.”

The two young daughters left behind

WO2 Leon Whitelaw with his naval colleagues in Samoa

22armytrainingissue 432 | June 2012

land petroleum operators train

Trade Training School recently conducted the Petroleum Managers and Basic Petroleum Operators Courses at Linton Military Camp and the Makomako training area .

The Petroleum Courses are aimed at training selected supply technicians with fundamental knowledge and skills in land petroleum operations.

Four students attended the Petroleum Managers Course, and the demanding training programme tested the students throughout the eight week course. The students covered a number of competencies that ranged from environmental and human risk management, emergency response planning, confined space entry control and FOL product management. The course culminated in an intense final field exercise, where the students were challenged with the tactical planning and deployment of a Deployable Bulk Fuel Installation (DBFI).

During the course the students visited a number of sites to develop their understanding of petroleum procedures. The Devonport and Whenuapai Military bases were visited, where the students received presentations on air and sea fuel operations. The BP Lubricants Plant, Independent Petroleum Laboratory and the Seaview ‘ship to shore’ operation in Wellington provided a detailed view into civilian petroleum processes. The highlight of the course was the hot fire fighting conducted at the Marsden Point oil refinery training ground.

On the Petroleum Operators Course, students initially receive comprehensive first aid and fire fighting training, and training in the application of emergency response procedures. They then move on to the operation of petroleum- specific vehicles and equipment, including Unit Bulk Refuelling Equipment, Bulk Liquid Fuel Tankers and the Deployable Bulk Fuel Installation.

Students are taught a variety of operations with this equipment, including fuel testing, equipment maintenance, confined space entry, bulk transfers of fuel, and kerbside refuelling. A general misconception is that the petroleum operator’s role is limited to refuelling vehicles; students soon realise there is a lot more to the operation and safe handling

of fuel than initially thought. On completion of both courses, students gain NZQA

qualifications in first aid and confined space entry. The qualifications gained on the courses also give students the opportunity to be posted to a petroleum role within NZ, or on deployment. Special thanks is extended to Staff Sergeant Dion Rennie who managed the Petroleum Managers Course. His help and dedication to the petroleum speciality ensured the effective conduct of the managers course. 21 Supply Company also provided much needed equipment and support to both courses, while Clare Gladding and her team at TES (Trentham) provided efficient coordination of resources throughout.

LAND PETROLEUM OPERATORS TRAIN

Trade Training School recently conducted the Petroleum Managers and Basic Petroleum Operators Courses at Linton Military Camp and the Makomako training area .

The Petroleum Courses are aimed at training selected supply technicians with fundamental knowledge and skills in land petroleum operations.

Four students attended the Petroleum Managers Course, and the demanding training programme tested the students throughout the eight week course. The students covered a number of competencies that ranged from environmental and human risk management, emergency response planning, confined space entry control and FOL product management. The course culminated in an intense final field exercise, where the students were challenged with the tactical planning and deployment of a Deployable Bulk Fuel Installation (DBFI).

During the course the students visited a number of sites to develop their understanding of petroleum procedures. The Devonport and Whenuapai Military bases were visited, where the students received presentations on air and sea fuel operations. The BP Lubricants Plant, Independent Petroleum Laboratory and the Seaview ‘ship to shore’ operation in Wellington provided a detailed view into civilian petroleum processes. The highlight of the course was the hot fire fighting conducted at the Marsden Point oil refinery training ground.

Marsden Point hot fire fighting

On the Petroleum Operators Course, students initially receive comprehensive first aid and fire fighting training, and training in the application of emergency response procedures. They then move on to the operation of petroleum- specific vehicles and

2

equipment, including Unit Bulk Refuelling Equipment, Bulk Liquid Fuel Tankers and the Deployable Bulk Fuel Installation.

Students are taught a variety of operations with this equipment, including fuel testing, equipment maintenance, confined space entry, bulk transfers of fuel, and kerbside refuelling. A general misconception is that the petroleum operator’s role is limited to refuelling vehicles; students soon realise there is a lot more to the operation and safe handling of fuel than initially thought.

On completion of both courses, students gain NZQA qualifications in first aid and confined space entry. The qualifications gained on the courses also give students the opportunity to be posted to a petroleum role within NZ, or on deployment. Special thanks is extended to Staff Sergeant Dion Rennie who managed the Petroleum Managers Course. His help and dedication to the petroleum speciality ensured the effective conduct of the managers course. 21 Supply Company also provided much needed equipment and support to both courses, while Clare Gladding and her team at TES (Trentham) provided efficient coordination of resources throughout.

2012 Petroleum Managers and Basic Petroleum staff and students

2012 Petroleum Managers and Basic Petroleum staff and students

Marsden Point hot fire fighting

armynews23issue 432 | June 2012

24armytrainingissue 432 | June 2012

By Sergeant Leon HealCadre NCO, 4 Otago and Southland Battalion GroupThe challenge of the 26 km Twin Peaks Battle Tab race held

annually in the hills of Dunedin drew keen competitors from as far away as Auckland, from a wide range of corps and both Territorial and Regular Force units.

Being completely new to this event I sought out information on what I had in store. Other soldiers informed me of their past experiences, and talk of pain, suffering and adverse climatic conditions was shared. I began to get a mental picture that this was not going to be a walk in the park.

Luckily for us the weather was playing the game and produced a grey overcast day with a cool breeze.

Dressed in patrol order with a patrol pack carrying all essential stores we weren’t heavily loaded by any means, but the challenge lay in the terrain we were about to experience. As we lined up on the start line the adrenaline of competition began to build. The first group to leave were individuals followed by teams, each departing at one minute intervals. Some teams departed into the tree line sombre and aware of their fate while some were jovial and chanting, comfortable in the fact that ignorance is bliss.

Then it was our turn. Disappearing into the trees we were greeted by a solid climb to the top of Flagstaff hill.

I asked one of my team mates how long the event took. “Oh about four or five hours” was the answer. We had only been going for what seemed like an endless 45 minutes. I wish I hadn’t asked.

After reaching the top and our first check point, there was a series of both steep and rolling undulations and an ant trail of competitors disappearing into the horizon.

Now came the down hill part. Knees and ankles felt like they were swelling to twice normal size from the constant battering, and muscles that once lay dormant on the up hill were being stressed.

Being back at the top was a major morale boost and just knowing we were on the home straight seemed to recharge the batteries. As with any physical event, some of our team mates weren’t faring too well and we needed to have frequent breaks to allow some to catch up. Our time was starting to slip and the cold Otago breeze was starting to take it toll, rapidly chilling muscles making re movement difficult.

We were greeted with more undulations. Walking to the horizon we encountered the beautiful view again, before finally the down hill push to the finish point. We flew down the hill in good spirits around a nasty dog leg that seems to say “almost there, but not yet” then across the finish line.

Sadly we were not greeted by cheering fans and other competitors as I had envisioned, due to the fact we came in at the end of the field and everybody was back in Kensington hall living it up. When I queried a transport personnel to the location of everyone and our cheering crowd he proceeded to clap and cheer which fulfilled my requirement for outside appreciation.

As I walked back into Kensington Army Hall with the swagger of a duck with stubbed toes I realised that although there were parts that were challenging, overall it was a lot of fun and excellent at building team cohesion. The self reward received when putting yourselves in situations that are both mentally and physically challenging is paramount. I will definitely be competing next year, and now I know what’s in store, will look to better my time. I definitely recommend any unit interested to come down and take part in Twin Peaks Battle Tab 2013.

Still smiling

The start of the tab

2LT William Sams from 4OSR was the winner of the men's individual section in an impressive time of 3.05.19

A group is congratulated at the after-tab function

Lt Ashley Hall from YDU in Burnham was the winner of the womens individual section in 3.55.97

Celebrating their effortThe women stride out

Three years in the making...For Army News contributing photographer John Cosgrove of

Dunedin, three years was the longest time he has ever spent on any photographic assignment.

“Usually in my line of work as an editorial, travel and adventure photojournalist the assignments are often only a couple of hours to a couple of days in length, never more than a week as time is always at a premium because you are working on someone else’s dime, but this time I was very privileged to be able to spend three years documenting the lives of the solders at the 4th Otago Southland Battalion Group.”

“I wanted to see how things had changed from when I was a young soldier in the unit more than 30 years ago so when the opportunity presented itself I gladly took my cameras out into the field with them to record the next generation of NZ Reserve Force soldiers from the region. During the past three years I was able to look beyond the usual press style of imagery one see’s in the media each day. I covered the soldiers on long exercises, in parades, out training in the field or undertaking civil aid projects, relaxing or working. They all soon got used to me pointing my lenses at them at odd moments and over the years I have built up a unique picture story of life in the unit, one which the soldiers all value as I often field requests from them now for copies of images from this activity or that exercise”.

John calculates that he has amassed more than 500GB of photos from this long term photo project which he will soon be offering to the Army Museum in Waiouru and the Turnball Library.

“It was initially started as a project to help the local Army unit promote their activities in the local media, but when I started my MFA at Otago Polytechnic School of Art it took on a whole new angle. I started to use the opportunities

afforded by my association with the Army to expand my photojournalism talents, to use these photo ops as a foil against the pressures of research and study into the history of newspaper photography in New Zealand post 1940 which was one of my dissertation subjects.

“Today it’s so much different as we know from recent social media exposés of current conflicts . I wanted to show through my images that the life of a soldier is still much the same as it was back then. They still get up in the morning, they cook their meals, wash and prepare themselves for the tasks ahead, they walk, they exercise, they train to fight and survive and they go on with their lives. I drew on my own experiences as both a former military photographer and a M113 crewman at 4th troop 2nd Scots many years ago to expand my own understanding of life in the military today. In the end I managed to produce two photo exhibitions, contribute a number of images to the recent historical book produced by Peter Cooke and John Crawford on ‘The Territorials’ and then I finally produced my own 79 page photo book ‘4OSR’ from the images I had shot while with the unit. The unit has since purchased a number of copies of this photo book to promote their activities.”

Photographer John Cosgrove with the two versions of the photo book ‘4OSR’he produced for his MFA final examination, a hardcover and another with a special textile cover courtesy of a DPM shirt he recovered from the trash.

armytraining25issue 432 | June 2012

twin peaKs– a gut-Busting Beautiful Battle taB

LCPL Richard Mountain leads his squad from Bravo Coy 4O/South

Part of the winning team group of young officers from 4O/South exits the bush high above Dunedin , from left: 2LT’s Tim Hayden and Frasier Ellis and OCDT Ben Patterson. Their team finished in 4.04.14

The end is nearSoldiers mid-tab

A welcome refreshment break

26armysportissue 432 | June 2012

2012 army rugBy tournament

poland: here comes macca

Where: Linton from 13 to 17 AugWhat: An inter corps tournament, between the teams representing RNZE, RNZIR, RNZALR and RNZA/Combined Corps

On 14 Aug RNZE play RNZA, and xRNZIR play RNZALR xOn 15 Aug there will be a game between North Masters vs South Masters and the Army Womans Team will play against a xyet to be confirmed adversary.On 16 Aug the finals will be played between the Corps Teams for the George Skudder Trophy. x

Staff Sergeant “Macca” McKenzie of 1(NZ) Military Intelligence Company, has been selected to represent New Zealand in the World Ultra Distance Running Championships in Poland in September.

SSGT McKenzie who served in Sinai, Egypt last year, has been competing in ultra marathons for several years. While he was serving in the Sinai he was selected to represent

New Zealand in the Commonwealth Championships in Wales. He won a place in that team after completing a 207km run within 24 hours at the New Zealand National Ultra Marathon Championships.

SSGT McKenzie says he is not “a talented athlete as some would suggest.”

“What I am, is a soldier with years of physical and mental

training along with a strong work ethic. I am supported by positive leaders and friends alike. It’s all about putting in the hard yards. I trained (in Egypt) when most people are sleeping not only to avoid the heat but to enable me to get in the training required at this level.”

A Territorial Force soldier, Private Andrew Crossan is looking for NZDF personnel, both Regular and Territorial Force, who may be keen on forming a New Zealand Army Ocean Rowing Team to take part in the Pacific Wave Ocean Rowing Race being held in June 2014.

PTE Crossan says the race will be an extreme challenge and will entail two teams rowing from California to Hawaii in ocean-going row boats.

The teams, he says, would be competing with novice groups from all over the world as well as teams from the British marines and the Australian defence force.

If you are interested please send a brief introduction about yourself and why you would like to be a part of this team to PTE Crossan at beewizz_2007@yahoo.com.au or mobile number 027 2771044.

pacific wave ocean rowing race

armysport27issue 432 | June 2012

2012 army rugBy tournamentnz army womens rugBy13-19 august 2012at linton military camp

Sport Nominations are now open for Players and Strappers for the NZ Army Women’s Rugby Team.

For further information and to submit nominations contact your local rugby representative:

Linton: SSGT Suzy Stack DDI: (06) 3519 989 Auckland: SSGT Missy Ngaru DDI: (09) 3965 775

Team Army – Sporting Excellence: from left,Sapper Paul Davis, Staff Sergeant Manuel Dalton, Corporal Eugene Hepi, Staff Sergeant Robert Gathergood, and Warrant Officer Class Two Greg Mildon following the NZDF Sports Awards.

sporting excellence

28armynewsissue 432 | June 2012

By Lieutenant Rimoni LeotaThe hangar used by New Zealand ‘s Timor-Leste contingent was converted into a Kiwi Boxing

promotion recently. The vehicles were moved as were the tools and in their place stood the only boxing ring in country, with Unimog trailers converted into ring-side seats. The event was promoted though the International Stabilisation Force, local United Nations personnel, United Nations police, and non-governmental organisations, and the expatriate community and so on the night more than 200 keen boxing fans turned up to see, ‘Kiwis fight each other’.

The first fight saw Lance Corporal Luke Watene up against Private Richard Mclaren. Both fighters fought hard, however PTE Mclaren won on points.

The second fight had PTE Jordan Matenga from the Infantry Pl against Proby (Lance Corporal Tom Hardwick) from Combat Service Support Team. Possibly the fight of the night, PTE Matenga outclassed his opponent with superior speed and skill, winning in the third round with a technical knock out (TKO).

The third fight saw PTE Ben Clutterbuck versus PTE Sam Crocombe, a very technical fight with both fighters landing good hits. The decision however went with PTE Crocombe.

The fourth fight saw CPL Bryce Wright from PMV versus PTE Jesse ‘the tankie killer’ Luckman. Many thought this fight wouldn’t go the distance, however both fighters battled hard with PTE Luckman winning on points.

The last fight had LCPL Watene (fighting again) up against PTE Teri Ayres. Surprisingly LCPL Watene’s superior fitness shone through and by the end of the second round he had taken control of the fight. He won in the third round though TKO.

Gyro 12’s fight night was a massive success with both the Aussie and Kiwi spectators saying it was their best night in theatre; the night raised a $1000 scholarship for the Leonard Manning trust. A special thanks to Colonel Martin Dransfield who spoke about the charity, and Staff Sergeant Lawrence Colvin and the Super Committee for organising the night.

• LeonardManningservedinTimorLestein2000withtheSecondNewZealandBattalion. He had a special empathy with the Timorese people, and in particular with those he worked alongside in Tilomar and Fatumean. He waskilled in combat on 24 July 2000 while protecting the people he had grown to love and respect. In 2002, his parents Charlie and Linda set up a Trust that was boosted to $7000, when $5000 was raised at a charity concert in Putaruru put on by Kiwi music stalwarts Ritchie Pickett, Larry Morris, Suzanne Lynch, Tom Sharplin, Ted Clarke, the Exponents and Hello Sailor. Over the years the fund continued to increase, reaching $14,000 at one point. Initially the trust helped to refurbish the Baer school in Suai, and then supported two students from Cova Lima to attend Dili University. The focus was then given to students from Cova Lima to attend courses at the Dom Bosco Technical College in Baucau, which is in the east of Timor- Leste.

fight night in timor-leste