armynewsc 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 y

15 june 2010Issue 410

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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: APN Print, Wanganui.

design: Defence Communications Group, NZDF

Editorial contributions and letters are welcomed.

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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:Private Wiremu Richmond (front) and Lance Corporal Jackson Lewis during Exercise Absolute in the North Island in May. Photo: Paul Stein

15 june 2010Issue 410

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A memorial to the Forest Rangers, the New Zealand Governments first Special Forces seen as the forerunner of the current 1NZSAS Group, was unveiled at Papakura Camp recently.

The unveiling of the memorial was attended by about 60 descendents of Gustavus Ferdinand Von Tempsky—one of the most prominent commanders of the Forest Rangers—as well as the Minister of Veterans Affairs, Judith Collins, and other guests.

The memorial is in the Camp’s remembrance area which also includes memorials to other Special Forces and Special Operations units New Zealand contributed to. The area, which has a granite memorial at one end and a chapel at the other, and is flanked by banks and gardens, is used for Anzac Day services and other ceremonies, and is a place for quiet reflection.

Mrs Gillian Thomson, the great-great- grand daughter of Major Von Tempsky, attended the unveiling ceremony, along with 47 adult relations, and nine children.

The octogenarian, who lives in Hawke’s Bay, said she had grown up knowing all about her great- great- grandfather, and was delighted there was something solid in place to remember his unit.

“He was a real soldier of fortune—a great artist, musician and soldier.”

Her family, Mrs Thomson said, had a long record of military service: her father, Ferdinand Von Tempsky Kettle served in Gallipoli, her sister Suzanne Osborn was a WREN, and her husband, Colin Thomson, served in Egypt and Italy in World War II.

“I think that is why the family is delighted the Army, and one officer in particular, went to so much trouble to put the memorial in place. It is important to remember the service of those who went before us.”

Her husband Colin Thomson, 89, was chairman of the Hawke’s Bay Regiment Association for some time. During the 1950s he helped train young men in the Compulsory Military Training scheme.

Forest rangers remembered at papakura

in brief

deFence Force volunteers For bass programmeTreasury has tasked the accounting firm KPMG to look at administrative spending across several New Zealand government agencies, including the New Zealand Defence Force. Under the BASS (Better Administrative and Support Services) programme, the kinds of things KPMG will be looking at are HR, travel, procurement, transport, real estate, information technology, strategy and finance.

BASS's main aim is to strengthen the effectiveness and efficiency of administrative and support services in the State sector. It is expected that KPMG will recommend ways to improve spending and increase transparency, which will then be considered by Cabinet.

ceremony marks the 68th anniversary oF the battle oF creteThe 69th anniversary of the Battle of Crete was marked by a wreath laying ceremony at the National War Memorial in Wellington on Thursday 20 May. It was attended by veterans of Crete, dignitaries, politicians, members of the Cretan community and military personnel.

The ceremony began with the mounting of the RNZAF catafalque guard and arrival of the official guests at the Hall of Memories.

what’s under anZac cove?An Australian group, Project Beneath Gallipoli, travels to Turkey this month to examine, map and interpret the underwater cultural landscape formed by Anzac Cove, North Beach and Suvla Bay.

The Australian and State governments provide extensive support for maritime shipwreck and heritage projects, especially those involving their wartime history. The New Zealand Underwater Heritage Group (NZ UHG) is investigating a possible Pacific project to survey and record the maritime remains of a New Zealand wartime incident of note. A badge in pristine condition from the Otago Mounted Rifles, was found by a snorkeler about 15 metres offshore in Anzac Cove. See www.underwaterheritage.co.nz

governor general visits timor-lesteThe Governor General Sir Anand Satyanand, and his wife, Lady Susan Satyanand visited Timor-Leste in May. Their visit was to view first-hand the official New Zealand contribution within Timor-Leste, including diplomatic, international development, Defence and Police commitments.

rotation returnsThe eighth rotation of troops to serve in Timor-Leste arrived at Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) Base Ohakea on 28 May.

The mostly Linton-based personnel have spent six months in the tropical environment of Dili with regular tasks including carrying out patrols, liaising with locals and providing assistance to United Nations Police.

On arrival at the base they were welcomed by Commander Joint Forces New Zealand, Air Vice Marshal Peter Stockwell, family and friends.

padre pat gourdie dies

World War II veteran Padre Pat Gourdie, known widely as a “humble hero”, died in Palmerston North on Friday, 11 June. The July issue of Army News will include a full obituary on Padre Pat.

The Forest Rangers, according to historian and author Richard Stowers, were formed as a specialist ‘bush-fighting’ corps by Lieutenant William Jackson at Papakura in August 1863 with the intention of scouring the Hunua Ranges for hostile Maori forces. Volunteers, mainly local farmers and miners, enlisted for three months. Their first action was a skirmish at Lusk’s Clearing, near Mauku in September 1863. Two months later the Forest Rangers was formed into two companies,

under Captains Jackson, and Gustavus Von Tempsky.Von Tempsky was born in Prussia in 1828. He

trained for the military from childhood, and graduated as a commissioned ensign in the 3rd Fusiliers when he was 16. He travelled to South America to work, and then the Californian gold fields, before marrying and moving to Australia. Leaving his family in Australia (they later rejoined him), he travelled to New Zealand to pan for gold, but ended up changing career paths and becoming a journalist. It was in this role he met LT Jackson, and was taken on as a military adviser. He was promoted to Major after the battle for Orakau in 1864. During the war the Forest Rangers were used

to protect the Army’s supply lines from marauding Maori taua, first in the Hunua Ranges, and then Waikato. Major Von Tempsky was discharged in 1866, but within two years was invited to command the 5th Division of the Armed Constabulary based at what is now Pirongia. In 1868 he and his men arrived in Hawera to support the campaign against the famed Maori leader and fighter Titokowaru.

During a skirmish one of his soldiers was shot. Major Von Tempsky went to his assistance, and he too was shot and killed.

Gustavus Von Tempsky, along with other soldiers killed in the skirmish, was cremated on a funeral pyre by Titokowaru’s tribe. He is remembered as a courageous soldier, tactician and leader who looked after his men to make their work safer and easier.

In 1963 the NZSAS Squadron was renamed the 1st Ranger Squadron, NZSAS, in recogintion of its historical links with the Rangers: the name was changed to 1st New Zealand Special Air Service Group in the 1990s.

The Forest Rangers were involved in 34 major engagements against Maori during the 1860s, and nine of them died in action or as a result of their wounds. They received 84 New Zealand medals and another 33 medals were issued to former Forest Rangers while serving with other units.

Sources: The Oxford Companion to New Zealand Military History; Free Glance.

newsYouth Development

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Mens Health Week 04Army Leadership

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Top Shots 27von Tempsky family members gather after the unveiling of the

memorial, Mrs Thomson is in the front row, third from right.

The memorial. Mr Colin Thomson and Papakura Camp Padre Mike

Subritzky during the unveiling ceremony.

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The WarranT offiCer of The fuTure by Warrant officer Class one Tony WrightWhat will be the composition of the Army’s future Warrant Officers? This question creates an interesting discussion with no end of debate as we transit through extraordinary and changing times. This article discusses the events and factors that have had an influence on Army that has necessitated changes, and will introduce some discussion points on the composition of the future Warrant Officer. By no means does it cover all aspects and it has purposely omitted enduring qualities such as values and leadership.

Numerous events such as the changing world order in the early 1990s, particularly with the collapse of the communist states, the upheaval in the South Pacific and the events post 9/11 have had an influence on our business as war fighters. Added in the mix are globalisation forces such as the perceived shrinkage between countries due to transport and communication technology and technological forces such as the emergence of the Internet.

So what does this have to do with our future WOs? In essence they must be prepared to change with the dynamics that shape both external and internal environments. Failure to do so is likely to create a gap between actual performance and desired performance; furthermore it will erode any influence that WOs are likely to have on key decisions.

There is no debate in the first instance the WO must have in-depth knowledge of war fighting and the factors that contribute to success, such as technical and tactical expertise, training, material and human resources, technology, and morale. They must have a pragmatic approach and be able to provide practical advice based on experience, confidence and training.

Training raises a contentious discussion. As WOs approach the natural completion of their respective progression courses, should they then extend further to other developmental courses such as the Grade Three Staff and Tactics, WO Advanced course or even tertiary studies? There is much discussion on the pros and cons of the subject.

To gain a competitive advantage, the future WO needs to be trained in agile thinking and have the ability to recognise and quickly respond to challenges that emerge. Equally important they will have to be adaptive by recognising changes to the environment in terms of operations, technology, demographics and economy, establish what is new, examine options for an effective way ahead, advise the boss accordingly and sell the plan. The rapid pace of technology is set to continue and the challenge will be to continuously update one’s knowledge, review existing methods and adapt.

With society moving more and more to electronic communication as the norm, for example Facebook and so on, face-to-face communication may well become a thing of the past and indeed a lost skill. Not underestimating the benefits of electronic communication, the future WO will still need to be able to personally reach out to soldiers and communicate face to face. This blends in with the requirement to be able to interact across multiple cultures and network across organisations so as to build meaningful and beneficial relationships.

The future WO will need to have in-depth knowledge in the art of war fighting. In addition he or she will need to be a pragmatic, professionally developed, agile, and adaptive communicator and networker.

Associate Minister of Defence Heather Roy publicly released the summary of submissions received by the Ministry of Defence during the public consultation phase of the Government’s Defence Review 2009 (DR09)on Friday 11 June.

“Last year Defence Minister Dr Wayne Mapp and I launched the public consultation phase of DR09 at Te Papa in Wellington,” Mrs Roy said. “The public consultation process of DR09 gave New Zealanders the opportunity to have their views on defence and security recorded and taken into account. More than 600 individual and organisations used that opportunity and made written submissions, and 250 people attended the 16 public meetings organised by the Ministry of Defence throughout the

country.

“The key themes that emerged during this process included: a high priority being placed on the defence of New Zealand and its wider interests, greater co-operation with key defence partners, and strengthening of the ANZAC relationship. This report summarises these, and other, themes identified.

“The Defence Review provided the first opportunity in over a decade for broad-based consultation on long-term Defence policy. All the information gathered will be considered as part of the Defence Assessment and will inform the preparation of the White Paper to be released later this year,” Mrs Roy said.

associate minister releases public submissions on deFence

deFence youth development Facilities openThe New Zealand Defence Force’s Youth Development Unit (North) at Hobsonville in West Auckland was officially opened on Friday 4 June.

The Youth Development Unit (YDU) is the Auckland regional base for the delivery of three youth oriented programmes by the New Zealand Defence Force, for the Ministry of Social Development and the Ministry of Education.

The YDU will provide the Limited Service Volunteer (LSV) course, support the work of service academies in the Auckland region and provide the Military Activity Camp (MAC) programme.

Similar Youth development Units have also been opened in Christchurch and Trentham.LSV is an intensive 6 week residential course providing life skills to unemployed young people aged between 17-25. Trainees

are volunteers who apply for the course through Work and Income. In 2010 up to 2000 trainees will go through the LSV course at Christchurch, Trentham or Hobsonville.

Ten Secondary Schools in the Auckland region operate Service Academies. Service Academies provide a structured academic programme supplemented with physical activity for students who may otherwise have left school without qualifications. Service Academies are run by the individual schools with funding from the Ministry of Education and support from YDU staff.

The MAC programme is part of a comprehensive programme for youth offenders run by the Youth Justice staff of Child, Youth and Family. The MAC programme will be run in the Auckland region but not at YDU (North) in Hobsonville.

Limited Service volunteers gather with CDf, LTGen Jerry Mateparae and two Police visitors.

03armynewsIssue 410 | 15 june 2010

Men’s Health is a topic many males struggle with, says the Director of Army Medicine, Lieutenant Colonel Andrew Dunn.

“A lot of this comes down to a pride or an indestructible attitude towards their health, but this can be detrimental in many ways,” LTCOL Dunn says.

Men feature more highly in adverse health statistics than women. They live on average four years less than women, dominate suicide statistics, and are over-represented in poor mental health statistics. More men than women get diagnosed with cancer, and more men die from it.

For Maori men, the statistics tell an even worse story. Twice the rate of Maori are dying than non-Maori.

Even when feeling healthy, a simple yearly visit to your General Practitioner (GP) can most often improve your lifestyle and often your life, says LTCOL Dunn.

“Start making friends with your GP.” Men’s Health Week (from 14–18 June) provides an opportunity to increase awareness of important male-specific health issues. It celebrates the contribution men make to family, work and the community, but reminds us that men don’t need to ‘tough it out’ or ‘go it alone’, and they shouldn’t. “It is about striking a balance and encouraging men to take control of all issues relating to physical, mental and sexual health,” says LTCOL Dunn.

“So start getting an annual warrant of fitness. We do it for our cars, but not our bodies.” In the Defence Force, there are some great examples of men maintaining good health. Staying ‘fighting fit’ is an area that the Defence Force does particularly well. But there also many instances of soldiers mistreating their health.

For example, the Director Defence Dental Services, Colonel Andrew Gray says dental and oral health has deteriorated in Army and this is a simple area that soldiers themselves can take responsibility for. Soldiers must ensure they brush their teeth daily and cut down their sugar intake.

Rehabilitation rates at Linton are also well down. LTCOL Dunn says there are some practical tips that can do to make sure Army personnel are

looking after themselves.

1. Share your family hiStory with your GPSharing your family history will give your GP gives a greater understanding of your health risks and the ability to properly monitor your health. Monitoring your health regularly gives you a much better chance of catching any health issues early and the best chance at surviving potentially life threatening illness. 2. Know your healthy weiGhtThe risk of many health issues including heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressures, some cancers, osteoarthritis, etc are all greatly increased if you’re overweight. Being overweight is also linked to psychological disorders and social problems. Obesity is a growing problem with up to 60% of New Zealand men considered overweight or obese according to their body mass index.

3. meaSure your PreSSureTwenty percent of New Zealanders have high blood pressure and don’t know it. High blood pressure is a major risk factor

for coronary heart disease, stroke, heart failure, peripheral vascular disease and renal failure. Major causes of high blood pressure include being overweight, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, dietary salt intake and nutrition patterns which involve low intake of fruits and vegetables and high intake of saturated fat. 4. StoP SmoKinG Smoking causes 40% of deaths in men who are aged under 65 and is responsible for causing up to 25 different diseases. It is recognised that your risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, and a range of cancers and other diseases is greatly increased if you’re a smoker.QuIttINg IS the oNly heAlthy optIoN. The body has an amazing ability to recover from the effects of smoking after you quit. After 24 hours the carbon monoxide in your blood will have dropped dramatically and all the nicotine will have been metabolized. Within a year of quitting the risk of coronary heart disease is halved and after 10–15 years of

not smoking your risk of disease will be the same as those who have never smoked. There are a number of services available for those who want to quit—speak to your GP or call Quitline for help. 5. maintain a healthy mind and a healthy body Depression is the most common cause of suicide. Males have a significantly higher rate of death by suicide than females with a rate of 18.5 deaths per 100,000 compared to the female rate of 6.3 deaths per 100,000.

Recognising the symptoms of depression in yourself and others can be the first step to beating it. Symptoms include tiredness, irritability, sleep disturbance, and loss of interest in work or other activities.

Men are less likely to seek help when they’re feeling down. It’s imperative you talk to someone if you’re not feeling right—there are services out there to help you or you can chat to your GP.

men’s HeaLtH – Let’s naIL It

sig mukherjee ready For businessby John archerRecruit Rahul Mukherjee is now a New Zealand citizen, after a ceremony at Waiouru officiated by the Deputy Chief of Army, Brigadier Tim Keating, and facilitated by Marie Paulsen of the Department of Internal Affairs.

This new citizenship status will enable him to graduate from his recruit course into the Corps of Signals, where he will follow the trade of Systems Operator.

Recruit Mukherjee, 18, came to New Zealand from India six years ago, initially living here on a student permit, and only recently gaining permanent residence. To become a New Zealand citizen, an immigrant usually has to live here as a permanent resident for five years. The New Zealand Army does recruit non-New Zealand citizens for some trades, and Rahul was initially recruited for training in the Corps of Logistics.

But he has very good computing skills, and the Army wanted him to graduate into the Signal Corps, where New Zealand citizenship is required because signallers have access to confidential information.

Consequently, the Minister of Internal Affairs, the Hon Nathan Guy, gave permission for the 5-year requirement to be waived, and Rahul took an oath of allegiance, swearing to be faithful to Queen Elizabeth and her successors, to observe the laws of New Zealand, and to fulfil his duties as a New Zealand citizen.

joining the army with a little supportprivate dale gilbertson, 19, who has recently marched out of depot company, had the company of his very supportive extended family on the day. he is posted to 2/1 battalion.

Signaller rahul Mukherjee and Deputy Chief of army, brigadier Tim Keating.

Issue 410 | 15 june 201004armyPeoPLe

It’s not unusual for the pressures of modern living or habits to ‘get the better of’ you or someone that you care about, from time to time. Even if you haven’t been affected yourself, everyone knows someone that has been impacted by mental health issues. But what is ‘good’ mental health? How do you know if you have it? How do you know if you don’t?

The World Federation for Mental Health defines mental health as being: “The capacity to feel, think and act in ways that enhance our ability to enjoy life and deal with the challenges we face”.

So it is much broader than just the absence of illness. The kinds of problems that can interfere with your enjoyment of life include alcohol and drug misuse, anxiety, depression, and gambling problems. You may have had to face a relationship break up or cope with the death of someone close to you. All of these things can have a huge affect on you, especially if you are dealing with more than one issue at the same time.

The New Zealand Defence Force Mental Health Strategy

recently approved by the Chief of Defence Force and published as DFO 3, Part 14, Chapter 6, was created to help set Defence Force personnel on the path to ‘total wellbeing’. It will be delivered to all military personnel in New Zealand and overseas, as well as any civilian staff deployed on operational missions.

For all civil staff DFO 16, Chapter 4 ‘Wellbeing of Civil Staff’ provides guidance. Advice and help is available through the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP).

The intent is to provide for the maximisation of mental health in the Defence Force as part of total wellbeing. Personnel who are well in all aspects of their lives contribute positively to Defence Force outputs.

The strategy focuses on the command responsibility for ensuring mental health; with the assistance of Defence Force professionals it promotes coordination between NZDF mental health facilitators, and the prevention of mental health issues.

The Defence Force professionals who can help you access

the most suitable advice take different approaches, but work together to support you in achieving positive mental health. Those who can assist include medical personnel, chaplains, psychologists, social workers, welfare facilitators, community services officers and deployment services officers.

You can find out more about them and get their contact details from the Personnel Branch Military and Civilian HR Toolkit ‘Wellbeing’ or Service intranets.

More information on EAP can be found on the HR Toolkit.

Veteran’s Affairs New Zealand also provides assistance to those personnel who have been deployed on an operational mission through their case management service. See the Veteran’s Affairs internet for more information.

The NZDF prides itself on providing a variety of health support networks to suit everyone’s needs. So, if you do have a matter that you would like to discuss, don’t hesitate to ask for assistance.

NZDF FOCUSES ON mental health

We are close to completing the introduction of this ambitious initiative—and the Army owes considerable gratitude to the nearly 150 leaders, of all ranks, drawn from throughout the Army, who have taken on the additional role of being a workshop trainer, which is over and above their normal duties. They have done us proud, as have most of the leaders attending the workshops who have been open to new thinking, shared their stories, and demonstrated commitment to raising the bar of leadership in our Army.

Some important work remains. We have until October to complete our ALF implementation workshops, with a final few for those at the Lead Leaders level (junior officers and senior non-commissioned officers, and the remaining 35–40% of Lance Corporals and Corporals also completing their Lead Teams workshops.

With the Army about to move to steady-state delivery of the ALF through our routine annual activity programme, it is perhaps timely to reflect on some of the key lessons that we have learned through this period, and keep these in mind as we deliver leadership training and education to meet the needs of today’s Army, and the Army of the future.

Attending Army Leadership Framework workshops has taught, or at the very least reminded us that:

We never stop learning about leadership. Just when we think •we have mastered the art of leadership, we are reminded that there is still more to learn, either at our current level, or in preparing for taking on additional leadership responsibilities.To be an effective leader, we have to keep thinking about •leadership—learning leadership lessons without applying the new knowledge or skills is worthless. Put more simply, good leaders think about the likely impact of their actions before they take action. Basic leadership behaviour, or how we interact with each •other and our subordinates, is no different whether we are a Major General or a Lance Corporal. This holds true regardless of what corps belt we wear, what unit we are in and even whether we are a uniformed or civilian member of the Defence Force.Some of the best learning is drawn from each other—as •leaders, collectively, there isn’t much that we haven’t faced or seen. It is important to share how we have successfully dealt with leadership challenges, or bounced back from setbacks. Learning about leadership in our transition groups, that is, officers and soldiers together, has been a highlight for many, and has done much to build networks, and enhance mutual respect between ranks.As adults, we learn best in an environment where we can •enquire, explore, question and challenge without risk of

criticism or censure. In order to build understanding, we need these freedoms. Learning by numbers will work for taking on new skills, but it doesn’t work for leadership. Our leadership styles and behaviours cannot be fixed—in •order to be effective leaders we must adapt to both the audience and the context. Being adaptable and agile is as important in leadership as it is in tactics. Above all else, we cannot hope to lead through just our rank; leadership is best achieved through the power of personal example.

If you are an officer, warrant officer or non-commissioned officer and haven’t yet attended a leadership workshop, you need to be proactive and take action. Speak to your immediate superior— and together plan your attendance. Be conscious that it is not just you who is impacted by this. While you are compromising your own leadership development, those under your command are perhaps not getting the quality of leadership they expect and deserve.

embeddinG the army leaderShiP frameworKIn a few months the Army will conduct its last leadership workshop as part of the implementation of the Army Leadership Framework. I expect at that time all Army leaders will have attended the leadership workshop relevant to their current rank.

The Army will continue our ‘business-as-usual’ approach for leadership development, where we are all required to attend leadership training as part of our preparation for promotion to the next rank, but there are some subtle changes to how we will go about this that will shortly be put in place.

Why are we introducing change? Simply because in conducting our leadership workshops, we have learned some good lessons about how we can best deliver leadership education, and as an agile and responsive Army, we will adapt in order to improve. We know enough to have confidence that the new approach will be good for the Army, and that we can test and adjust as we go; we will ‘shape while we create’. The key changes are:

At every possible opportunity, we will conduct our leadership •training in leadership transition cohorts, that is, officers and soldiers together. Put more simply, we will train as we intend to fight.We will invite our Army civilian staff, as well as staff from •selected Government departments to join us for our leadership training. This will serve to give us as wide a perspective as possible on leadership, as well as furthering our relationship with these entities.We will continue to draw on leaders from around the Army •to assist in delivering leadership training. This will see The Army Depot and Officer Cadet School staff, leadership centre staff and unit leaders forming a partnership with shared responsibility for teaching our next generation of leaders.

What will this new way look like? In many respects we are

Lead Army / Lead Integrated Systems

Lead CapabilityLead Operating

SystemsLead Leaders Lead Teams

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LTCOL, WO1 MAJ, WO22LT, LT, CAPT, SGT,

SSGTLCPL, CPL

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just carrying on using the very successful leadership workshop formula. There are, however, a number of important distinctions that need to be made. The first of these is that we are making a distinction between leader courses— i.e. those all-arms and corps courses that leaders attend that prepare them for their professional responsibilities, and leadership courses—which focus solely on the development of leadership behaviours or competencies. In many, but not every case, the leadership courses will be embedded in existing leader courses. The second significant distinction is that the leadership courses will be a mandatory promotion requirement, and DFO(A) Vol 3 will be amended to reflect this.

The first course to be conducted under this new structure will be the Lead Operating Systems course, required by Captains and Staff Sergeants for promotion to Major and Warrant Officer Class Two respectively. This course will be embedded as the first five days of the All-Arms Warrant Officer (WO) course due to begin in mid-August. This means that for students on the WO course, it is business as usual— attend the WO course and you are automatically on the Lead Operating Systems course. For officers, the Military Secretary (MS) will direct attendance by Captains, and normally this will be in the year prior to promotion to Major. However, we expect our officers not to wait to be directed, but put their nominations forward. Due to the numbers of students involved—up to 60—there will be two Lead Operating Systems courses conducted concurrently, in Linton and Burnham. So, while this is conducted as part of the Warrant Officers’ course, for most students, it will be attended in home locations.

The Lead Leaders course will follow the same model, beginning with the All-Arms SNCO course which starts in September. Once again, Corporals will automatically complete the course through being on the SNCO course, while for the officers, MS will direct attendance (in consultation with units) during a Second Lieutenant’s second year of commissioned service.

For those attending a Junior NCO course, there is no substantive change as there is a Lead Teams component already embedded in the course. The two Regional Training Wings will simply carry on the good work.

Further details on these changes will be promulgated through the command chain as planning is completed, and changes take effect.

most uniformed army leaders have now been introduced to the army leadership Framework (alF) through attending a leadership workshop.

between may 2008—when the first lead army / lead integrated systems workshop was conducted—and may 2010, more than 2,200 army leaders have stepped up to learn, and shared their learning with others, about the art and science of leading. the breakdown of attendees at each level is shown in the table below.

army LeadersHIP traInIng what have we learned?by chief of army, major general rhys jones

In order to be eFFeCtIve Leaders we must adaPt to botH tHe audIenCe and tHe ConteXt. beIng adaPtabLe and agILe Is as ImPortant In LeadersHIP as It Is In taCtICs.

by Major ian Piercy, Senior national officer, Solomon islandsSkIll At ArmS CompetItIoN Corporal J.J. Pokai’s section produced the winning team effort

to take first prize in the coveted Skill at Arms Competition held in Honiara, Solomon Islands recently. This was a test based on the military skills of the individual and team activities that pushed the soldiers to their limits. They were all competing against the clock to gain the fastest overall time in a series of military events. Fitness and organisation were the key elements to the success of the winning section’s efforts.

There was significant time spent training throughout the deployment to keep the soldiers’ skills at the highest levels possible. The training was designed by the Training senior non-commissioned officer, Staff Sergeant Francis Hampson. Not only did he deliver training to the Kiwi platoon but also helped design training for the rest of the military personnel based at Guadalcanal.

CPL Pokai’s section were deserving winners and had a clear time advantage to easily take out the competition. It is very satisfying as the New Zealand senior National Officer to see Defence Force personnel excel in such activities particularly when they are competing directly with our Australian and Papua New Guinea comrades that made up the balance of the Combined Task Force. All three sections in the New Zealand Platoon who competed took out the top three places in the Skill at Arms. A very proud moment for Defence Force personnel.

CombINed tASk ForCe 635 CommANderS CommeNdAtIoN preSeNtAtIoN.

The Commanding Officer of the Combined Task Force 635, Lieutenant Colonel David Thompson awarded Lance Corporal Miles Romanes a Commander’s Commendation for the efforts he put into an engineering project he conducted. The project was to survey and advise on the state of more than 60 bridges that had been flood damaged on the island of Malaita here in Solomon Islands. He did this while also completing his responsibilities as a section second in command. He produced working papers and a detailed report on the state and damage of the bridges which was then handed on to the Solomon Island Government for action. This work was completed quickly and without fuss and resulted in at least three of the surveyed bridges being closed as they were deemed too dangerous for further use.

Both CPL Pokai and LCPL Romanes epitomize the hard working and dedicated Defence Force personnel on deployment who actively demonstrate Army ethos and values in their everyday work and are to be congratulated for the outstanding performance here while on deployment .

success in the solomon islands

For almost a decade the multi-national Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI) has been operating to restore law and order to a nation that was debilitated by civil unrest. Since then, RAMSI has moved to stabilise the Solomon Islands and is helping rebuild communities through development programmes.

One such programme is the Community Outreach Programme. It aims to engage with remote communities, listen to their concerns, and find ways to resolve or highlight their issues to the Solomon Islands Government.

In May a small contingent of New Zealand Police, Defence Force personnel and local Government advisers participated in the programme. They embarked on a ten hour boat voyage to Santa Isabel Island – one of hundreds of inhabited islands that make up the Solomons. The contingent visited a number of communities including Papatura Island, Baolo, Koloaskia and Kia.

Advisor Kylie Newton, Participating Police Force (PPF) Community Relations Team Leader, said “while we were in the villages we first met the chief of the village. This was important as traditionally nothing happens in a village without his support and consent.”

With the Solomon Islands Government elections set for sometime in July or August, the contingent also spoke about the election, the voting process and the importance of voting integrity. Mr Newton “found that the most common feedback was ‘we want to see Police here more often’.”

“Without exception, we were very welcome in each of the villages we went to. It was very humbling to be greeted with traditional songs from the village where everyone sang.”

“The villages, mostly built on the coast, were very impressive in their size. One or two were very well laid out, impressively clean and well swept. The villages consisted of traditional huts made from local materials, and all were well maintained.”

“The most memorable moment of the trip for me was the way in which the locals welcomed us. At one village, we all sang the Sunday school hit ‘Son of Abraham’ complete with actions which was hugely funny as everyone really got in to it.”

Another highlight of the trip was the opportunity to share different cultural experiences. Major Ian Piercy, Deputy Commander of the Combined Task Force, which is the military component of RAMSI, reciprocated his appreciation of the Chiefs allowing RAMSI into their villages. With the strength of an infantryman he conducted a one-man Haka that made the children react with excitement and scream in fascination at his warrior-like disposition. This immediately had the effect of engaging the local villages as they were able to relate to the cultural exchange and felt comfortable in sharing their views with the group.

The contingent had one last task to complete before departing Santa Isabel. Major Piercy bought three turtles that had been captured by a local fisherman in the hope that they could be set free.

Corporal Linda Tompson said the endangered animals “appeared in good health, and, as there were three turtles

and three Kiwi’s, we each took one, held them upright and placed them on the sand close to the water. They took off pretty quickly (for turtles) towards the sea.”

CPL Tompson got into her swimmers and swam with a turtle before it disappeared into deeper waters. “Knowing that it is a once in a life time experience, I was very excited.”

When asked what were some of the memorable moments of the several days she spent touring the villages, CPL Tompson said “at Kolopakisa playing with the kids, trying to surf on a stand up paddle board and watching out for crocs at the same time,” were great experiences.

Mr Newton said he “would absolutely return to the villages given the opportunity, and as with anything where you have the benefit of hindsight, take more with me for the locals, either by way of materials for their village or resources for the children.”

Major Piercy said it was an honour and privilege to serve in this mission and have the satisfaction of being able to help where we can. He said the turtle release programme was a great initiative to help the population of turtles survive and at the same time highlight to the local villages the benefits of environment sustainability.

The most memorable part of the trip for Major Piercy was accepting the village’s hospitality and deep respect, particularly for any New Zealander in a soldier’s uniform. This was evident in every village we visited. “The Kiwis are held in very high regard throughout the antipodes. It is a very humbling experience to meet such proud and honourable people.”

From a military perspective conducting these patrols into the provincial rural areas is vital. They firstly remind the total populace that the military forces are still present and this presence acts very much as a deterrent to any criminal elements and provides the environment for the other agencies involved in RAMSI to conduct capacity building within Solomon Islands. It also allows the locals to have the confidence to resume a normal lifestyle, villages to function as the Solomon Islands culture dictates and the future generations to grow and prosper in a safe and stable country.

worKIng togetHer In soLomon IsLands

Corporal JJ Pokai receives his award from Lieutenant Colonel David Thompson, Commanding officer of the Combined Task force 635.

Lance Corporal romanes receives his award.

from left, Corporal Linda Tompson, Police advisor Kylie newton and Major ian Piercy.

Corporal Tompson helps her turtle on its journey.

06armyPeoPLeIssue 410 | 15 june 2010

to be an additional member oF the new Zealand order oF merit

LIeutenant CoLoneL nICHoLas joHn gILLard, royaL regIment oF new ZeaLand artILLeryLieutenant Colonel Gillard deployed to Afghanistan from April to October 2009 as Chief of Staff for the New Zealand Provincial Reconstruction Team (NZPRT) based in Bamiyan. During this tour, the contingent were faced with the highest operational tempo and largest insurgent threat experienced by a deployment to Bamiyan to date. He effectively practised mission command at all times, which allowed his staff the freedom to conduct operations to best effect. He was responsible for planning and coordinating the security aspects of the Bamiyan Province elections in conjunction with the Afghan National Security Forces. The result saw elections being conducted efficiently, and with a high level of security. He also oversaw the successful embedding of United States Military Police into Bamiyan, to begin their mission of training the Afghan National Police within a timeline previously thought to be impossible. His understanding of the complex relationships between international forces and the Afghan people saw immense progress being made by the NZPRT. During his deployment, the largest upgrade of the New Zealand forward operating base and district forward patrol bases seen to date occurred. His team also began to manage the largest aid budget that has ever been available and the proper implementation of a mentoring and partnership relationship with the Afghan National Police was implemented.

to receive the new Zealand distinguished service decoration (dsd):

LIeutenant bLaKe wILLIam Herbert, ed royaL new ZeaLand InFantry regIment (terrItorIaL ForCe)Lieutenant Herbert has served more than 36 years in the Territorial Force since enlisting in November 1973. He was commissioned in 1988. He has voluntarily taken on the role of unit historian, which sees him as the principal custodian, curator and archivist of the 3rd Auckland (Countess of Ranfurly’s Own) and Northland Battalion Group’s memorabilia and taonga. If this work had not been done, the true value of many of the items would not now be known and their security would not have been assured as it is today. He is also President of the Regimental Association and in this role, he took the lead in an ambitious project to erect a Memorial Cairn in the Auckland Domain, to honour all past members of the Auckland Regiment. The cairn is the only dedicated infantry memorial in New Zealand and it was constructed using stones from Anzac Cove in Turkey. He worked consistently and with a great deal of perseverance to complete the project.

LIeutenant mICHaeL wILLIam KobersteIn new ZeaLand InteLLIgenCe CorPsLieutenant Koberstein (in the rank of Acting Captain), deployed to Afghanistan from April to October 2009 as Intelligence Officer for the New Zealand Provincial Reconstruction Team based in Bamiyan. During this tour, the contingent were faced with the highest operational tempo and largest insurgent threat experienced by a deployment to Bamiyan to date. Against this background, he strove to improve intelligence collection plans, data bases and operational security procedures. He formed a highly productive professional relationship with key members of the Afghan Security Forces and obtained information that was crucial in saving the lives of both New Zealanders and Afghan nationals. He also developed accurate and detailed information databases. These proved valuable in the collation of evidence against suspected insurgents. His initial collection of information played a critical part in establishing the prosecution case against another person suspected of carrying out acts of insurgency in the province.

major sImon montague marrIott, royaL new ZeaLand armoured CorPs (terrItorIaL ForCe)Major Marriott has been instrumental in the continued existence of the Waikato Mounted Rifles as the only Territorial Force armoured sub-unit, despite a number of significant challenges. He has developed innovative and progressive training regimes that have allowed the unit to deliver a real capability. This includes arrangements for personnel from the unit to train with British cavalry regiments. He also ensured the unit was well placed to take on new equipment and adapt to the changes brought on by the introduction of the Pinzgauer Reconnaissance Vehicle and the Light Armoured Vehicle. This approach to training and the drive to maintain a useable capability translated into competent and capable soldiers who were fully committed. Since his appointment as the Squadron Commander in January 2000, personnel from the unit have deployed to Timor-Leste, Solomon Islands, Afghanistan and Korea. Such is the effectiveness of the Waikato Mounted Rifles that it has one of the highest rates of operational deployments of any Territorial Force unit.

major brendan PatrICK wood, royaL new ZeaLand army medICaL CorPsMajor Wood has served as Chief Instructor at the Joint Services Health School since December 2007. In early 2008, he recognised that changes to legislation governing health practitioners would have a major impact on training provided to Defence Force medics. He subsequently proposed and championed a university based programme combining diploma and graduate diploma structures as the basis for a Bachelor of Health Science (Paramedic) degree through the Auckland University of Technology. This programme, which began in January 2010, allows previous diploma programmes to be grandfathered into the Bachelor programme, thereby recognising and aligning the qualifications of medics to this new tertiary criteria. The development of this degree represents a significant step in medic training and professional development. The new training model, which has both national and international recognition, will lead to an improved retention factor for this trade group in all three Services and enhanced medical support on operations.

by Judith MartinCorporal Matt Pearce didn’t think twice when shots rang out and he came under intense attack from rocket propelled grenades and small arms fire in the village of Do Abe in Afghanistan last year.

The fire was accurate and coordinated and focussed on his section.

“A whole heap of thoughts went through my head actually. But one I remember really clearly is thinking ‘this isn’t an exercise. There’s no pass or fail here—we have to end this ourselves.”

He and his soldiers reacted immediately and began to return fire, eventually routing the enemy.

For his actions during the incident, CPL Pearce, 27, and now based at Burnham camp, is to receive the New Zealand Distinguished Service Decoration. His citation for the award, announced in the Queens Birthday Honours recently, said he ran the battle, giving clear directions to his men and ensuring that a steady flow of accurate suppressing fire was directed towards the enemy.

“He then put himself at risk in order to position himself in the best place to run the battle. This gave him the ability

to successfully co-ordinate his section’s fire and observe the enemy throughout the attack. The fire fight lasted approximately 15 minutes and contact was finally broken when his section began firing high explosive rounds in the direction of the insurgents. He then co-ordinated aircraft support on to the location of the enemy to ensure the threat had been dispersed. He acted professionally throughout the incident and maintained the composure of his men. This was the first fire fight between New Zealand Provincial Reconstruction Team troops and insurgents since the mission began in 2003.”

Timaru-born CPL Pearce says when the contact began his patrol was providing security at the local police sub-station, assisting another Kiwi patrol. They were on heightened alert because a couple of explosions had occurred at a local school, but weren’t really expecting anything that evening.

“We just did what we are expected to do in that situation. No-one froze, which was good, and we just began firing back.”

It was CPL Pearce’s second tour to Afghanistan, and his fifth overseas deployment. But it was the first time he had ever come under fire.

“Everyone was happy with how we dealt with the situation, but on the other hand we were worried about what had happened. We were pretty cautious, but we just cracked on.”

Five other Army personnel were honoured in the recent Queens Birthday Honours. They were:

“we just CraCKed on…” burnHam CorPoraL Honoured For aFgHan aCtIon

Issue 410 | 15 june 2010armyPeoPLe07

by Major Kit TaylorThe most significant aspect of Exercise Absolute was that it enabled the deployment of the Combined Arms Task Group – Cavalry (CATG (Cav)). The composition of the Task Group (TG) was a true reflection of the combined arms approach based on the NZLAV platform within a 1Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment Cavalry Company.

Key contributions to the TG were a CS Engineer Section (2 Engineer Regiment), Joint Offensive Support Team party, 163 Battery and UAS Section (16 Field Regiment), a FIST (1 NZ Signals Regiment) and several Intelligence Operators (Military Intelligence Company) as well as elements from 2 Logistics Battalion.

Within 1RNZIR, A Company was task organised with AArmd, Recon and Sniper sections as well as the A1 Echelon under command of the CQMS. The manoeuvre element of the Task Group numbered at around 170 personnel and while it might sound like a bit of a list, what it does give is an indication of a Force Element that is truly capable of conducting combined arms combat operations and being self sufficient in doing so.

The exercise itself was designed to test A Company across a wide range of tasks found in modern conflict zones today. From a counter insurgency enemy employing asymmetric tactics including improvised explosive devices and suicide bombers, to conventional operations, as well as stability and support operations.

There were a number of tactical tasks conducted at company level over this period. Upon receiving intelligence that the Patea Dam was a target for insurgents, the company conducted an airmobile insertion to establish key point protection of the dam with the landing zone secured by an earlier deployment of Reconnaissance and Snipers.

The infantry elements secured the dam early enabling a link-up operation to be conducted with the NZLAV and the commencement of both mounted and dismounted patrols. The other major task during this phase was the conduct of a deliberate urban attack onto an insurgent stronghold at Ironsands, just outside of Waverly. An assessment of the enemy indicated that they were dominating the high speed approach to our objective. This led to the company dismounting about 8–9 kms short of the objective and patrolling through the night to a Form Up Point marked by the Recconnaisance Section. Fire support was provided by our Anti Armoured section with the snipers providing precision fire. Utilising the NZLAV as deception on the main approach route enabled the focus to be taken away from the infantry and we were able to close quickly onto the objective with speed and surprise.

Phase three saw A Company platoons and the Company Headquarters itself tested across a number of live firing battle handling exercises by day and night. This included Operation Rangipo Storm. This was a CATG (Cavalry) raid against a platoon sized group of insurgents defending an ammunition storage point. This type of operation gave an indication of the true strengths of the combined arms nature of the CATG (Cavalry) and its ability to concentrate the massed indirect and direct firepower and the rapid protected mobility of the NZLAV over a 20km approach in just under 15 minutes. An example of this saw 16 NZLAV engage the enemy simultaneously from two attack- by-fire lines as 163 Battery shifted fire to depth objectives just prior to the main attack beginning.

During this operation each element of the Task Group was tested. Initially, Recon conducted a close target observation on the objective, Snipers provided over-watch and the Unmanned Aerial Section provided surveillance to give our commanders better situational awareness. 163 Battery provided preparatory and covering fire in support of our troops, and then switched to cut the enemy off during exploitation. Engineers conducted a deliberate breach of the enemy protective obstacles and the Cavalry Platoons destroyed the enemy and secured their objectives with support from Anti-Armour, Reconnaissance, and Snipers. The operation concluded with an in-hide replenishment by the A1 Echelon.

As well as being a Company testing platform, Exercise Absolute provided an insight into what the CATG (Cavalry) can provide as a deployable force element. The CATG is optimised for combat but proved that it has the inherent mobility, communications, firepower, and flexibility to prosecute operations in almost any operating environment.

deploying cavalry For optimum results:

eXerCIse absoLute

Soldiers rehearse their contact drills.

a Lav convoy.

Soldiers detain an enemy “suspect”.

08armyeXerCIseIssue 410 | 15 june 2010

exercise absolute – a platoon perspectiveby Lieutenant Jordy GaleSoldiers from A Company, 1 RNZIR deployed on Exercise Absolute to assess the company against Directed Level of Capability.

The exercise began with the deployment to the Forward Operating Base (FOB) at Flock House where the platoons were tasked with a series of patrols including convoy escort, raids, humanitarian aid distribution and deliberate attacks.

Each task brought its own challenges and considerations requiring commanders to do a detailed appreciation in order to best employ the elements and resources available. The large area of operations and complex nature of the terrain and vegetation saw the platoons well dispersed, and both mounted and dismounted.

After some successful platoon tasks the Company reconstituted and conducted a pre-first light clearance of Languards Bluff which was to become the new FOB. At once the Company began preparing for the next operation. The advance was deployed by helicopter to begin the key point protection of Patea Dam, a task that would last nearly three days.

There was no time to return to the FOB before redeploying for the final strike against the enemy. A deliberate dismounted attack at Iron Sands was launched, crushing the last of the Social Party Activists within the Taranaki region and taking their leader prisoner.

The following day saw the redeployment to the infamous wastelands of Waiouru. After a few days on the ranges the Company launched into platoon live firing, before moving on to a raid in Zone One and concluding with a deliberate attack by day and night. It was during these tasks that the true effect of the combined massed firepower of the artillery, NZLAV and riflemen became apparent. Enemy positions were pocked with craters and riddled with holes from the weapon systems brought to bear.

Overall the exercise was a success and the experience the Company gained from working in a Combined Arms Environment in both contemporary and conventional settings, will bode well for future exercises and operations.

reconnaissance platoonby Lieutenant Mark elwoodThe Reconnaissance and Sniper platoon deployed two manoeuvre support sections as part of the Alpha Company Combined Arms Task Group(CATG). The majority of the tasks the detachments conducted were in observation posts or in short duration tasks such as over watch positions. These deployed forward of the Company or individual platoons to gain information on enemy positions and terrain surrounding objectives. As the CATG conducted its respective tasks the detachments were able to see the objectives and provide real time information to the supporting troops.

Overall the Reconnaissance and Sniper detachments gained valuable knowledge from working with the CATG which will be put to good use as they deploy with Victor Company to Australia on Exercise Hamel in October.

the army command and control battlelabby Lieutenant Dan SwaleThe Army Command and Control Battlelab (AC2BL) deployed on Exercise Absolute in support of 1 Battalion, RNZIR, to enhance the command and control tools available to the unit. Both Battalion and Company Headquarters were supported by a Forward Information Systems Team (FIST), which through a meshed Ku satellite system allowed the Headquarters to share information, collaborate on planning and increase situational awareness.

The FIST platform provides a new paradigm of communications support, with the ability to provide traditional radio communications to Headquarters (HQ), as well as a wide area network that facilitates the sharing of information across the battlespace.

On Exercise Absolute, HQ staff were able to share documents through a Sharepoint portal, communicate through messaging software, as well as use all the familiar Microsoft Office applications to create and share information. The FIST also integrated battle management software and Geo-Spatial Information Systems provided by 2 Engineer Regiment to provide battalion planners with tools for better understanding of both the area of operations and the location of the Battalion’s force elements.

Exercise Absolute saw the first fielding of AC2BL elements in troop strength, with a total of seven Signals detachments working side by side with the Battalion’s own signal platoon to provide communications across the area of operations. These elements were backed up by a team of specialists based in Linton, who provided 24-hour monitoring and support. While the initial phase of the exercise saw a significant amount of engineering required to perfect the network, once fully established it provided a good quality of service to the users, as well as training opportunities for both 1 Battalion and AC2BL personnel.

1 rnZir signals platoon by Lieutenant Liz PearsonSignals Platoon 1 RNZIR integrated with the Army Command and Control Battlelab (AC2BL) prior to Exercise Absolute to build and test advanced CIS concepts and infrastructure. The soldiers from Signals Platoon were forced to put down their handsets and logbooks, and use laptops for all voice and data traffic between the Battalion HQ and Company. It was the first time since May 2009 that the Battalion Headquarters (Bn Hq) and the CP had been deployed on exercise. Signals Platoon and AC2BL worked hard in conjunction with Bn HQ staff to get processes, procedures and infrastructure right. There was no need for handsets and squawk boxes with multiple radio nets coming over laptop headsets, transmitted with just the click of a mouse. Signals Platoon is becoming a more technical avenue for soldiers within 1 RNZIR. With the Battalion moving faster and conducting distributed operations over hundreds of kilometres, we are required to fight harder for communications and to deal with larger amounts of information. Overall the platoonl learned a lot, not only about how much technology has moved forward, and how to use it, but how we use and deploy that capability to support a manoeuvre unit as agile and flexible as a Cavalry Combined Arms Task Group.

KeePIng moraLe HIgHduring exercise absolute the military studies institute (msi) provided a very well stocked canteen that kept hard working soldiers stocked up with the comfort foods required to help create the ‘happy soldier’. entertainment was also provided in the evenings taking the form of group games and trivia quizzes. this provided the soldiers with some good laughs and a warm place to relax. the provision of sky tv, which was funded by the canteen profits, enabled all those not tasked with duties to watch the anzac test on the big screen. the army operational welfare unit also provided the opportunity for soldiers to complete training packages required for promotion or courses, and discuss possible education opportunities that are available to them via the msi.

Soldiers move into all round defence after leaving an rnZaf iroquois.

urban operation drills.

immediate action drills.

Signaller Craig beck at work in the Command Post. Photos: Paul Stein

Sergeant aileen Tough, MSi, (right) does her stint in the canteen.

armyeXerCIse09Issue 410 | 15 june 2010

Soldiers from Burnham’s 3rd Land Force Group, and Air Force personnel from Ohakea spent two weeks working alongside each other, preparing for likely operational deployments to sustain current overseas missions.

This was a Combined Arms Task Group exercise which included infantry, armoured crewmen using Light Armoured Vehicles, engineers, artillery, medical, logistics and Air Force personnel, carrying out tasks in Ranfurly, Naseby, St Bathams and through to Omarama before culminating in a live fire exercise in Tekapo.

The exercise was based on a conventional training scenario. Central Otago and the McKenzie Basin were transformed into a fictitious island nation known as South Leziwt. Political unrest had caused tensions, forcing the Army to intervene. Troops headed there to restore order and evacuate any New Zealanders who needed to move. The people of local towns Naseby and Ranfurly helped “act out” the scenario, and were involved in the evacuation.

“Soldiers spend a lot of their training building individual skills but this exercise allowed those skills to be tested both individually and as a group” says the Commanding Officer 2/1 Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Hugh McAslan.

“Working as a Combined Arms Task Group is exactly what we would be doing in any operation, either here or overseas. Each part of the Defence Force has its own specialty; the power is when they are combined.”

There will be more information about Exercise Saladin in the July issue of Army News.

eXerCIse saLadIndeveLoPIng mILItary sKILLs For today

a chilly start to the day.

Soldiers rehearse their drills.

Light armoured vehicles move into the area.

10armyeXerCIseIssue 410 | 15 june 2010

More than 500 Defence force personnel DeployeD to central otago anD the Mackenzie Basin last Month on the arMy’s first Major south islanD collective training activity for the year.

11armynewsIssue 410 | 15 june 2010

armyeXerCIse11Issue 410 | 15 june 2010

by officer Cadets alexander bowyer and Thomas buhrOfficer Cadets from the New Zealand Commissioning Course deployed on Exercise le Quesnoy, near Tongariro National Park in late April.

Excitement was high when we were told that it was an Army Adventure Training Centre (AATC) exercise, so immediately thoughts of rock climbing, white water rafting and other adrenaline-packed activities were entering the minds of most cadets. In our syndicate groups of 4–5 we worked through a number of adventure-based activities, testing and developing our functional leadership. These activities required us all to be a leader of the syndicate and, once completed, our instructor and peers gave us feedback.

Highlights were a bridge mission which required the group to safely move under the bridge on small rails and required a good centre of balance, which this reporter is unhappy to report, he does not have. These rails were made even more difficult with the 15m drop below. Once in the middle of the bridge a “bomb” needed to be placed to successfully complete the mission. OCDT Dean Hall sent OCDT Nicholas Rowe down on a rope to place the “bomb” without figuring out how to get him back up. No harm was done, apart from the difficult angle at which he was dangled below.

Another highlight was when a scenario took us underground. The claustrophobic cadets’ heartbeats were echoing through the caves as we passed through narrow gaps in freezing water. Navigating in the dark was a huge challenge especially where every route looked like a dead end.

The exercise was great fun with caving, rafting, orienteering and a lot of rope work for the high obstacles. We had excellent instructors who had a genuine interest in the cadets’ development.

adventure traInIng For Future oFFICers

Heartbeats were eCHoIng tHrougH tHe Caves as we Passed tHrougH narrow gaPs In FreeZIng water. navIgatIng In tHe darK was a Huge CHaLLenge.

Seven Army officers, including one who has served for 45 years, were awarded medals and awards at a ceremony in Headquarters, NZDF, Wellington on Monday 14 June.

An Army civilian, Mr M Harvey was also awarded a medal for service in Afghanistan, and Chief Of Army commendations were given to Majors John Liddell and Gary Shanley, and Sergeant Davey Forbes.

The awards were presented by the Chief of Army, Major General Rhys Jones.

Further coverage of the awards will appear in the July issue of Army News.

awards made to weLLIngton PersonneL

Major Peter Stitt, who enlisted in the new Zealand army in 1965 and is a vietnam war veteran, is congratulated by MaJGen Jones.

abseiler: officer Cadet Scott Williams. versatility was the key for this officer cadet.

12armyPeoPLeIssue 410 | 15 june 2010

by Lieutenant Colonel andrew Dunn, Director of army Medicine.On 20 May 2010 history was made at Linton Camp when the 102 year old Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps received its first Banner.

In times past, the banner was a rallying point for soldiers on the battlefield. Today it is a centrepiece for a Corps or Regiment and represents the physical embodiment of the spirit of the Corps.

Thirty years ago the idea of a Banner was first suggested when HRH the Queen Mother was Colonel-in-Chief of the Corps. Following her passing, Prince Richard, Duke of Gloucester (first cousin of the Queen) kindly accepted our invitation to be Colonel-in-Chief, and it was his Banner that was presented to the RNZAMC 100-person guard.

a rICH HIstory CeLebrated In banner Parade

This Banner Parade was the culmination of three years of hard work and planning, and represented a team effort. Acquiring a banner is a prolonged and strict process which needs approval from her Majesty the Queen. Along the journey funding had to be secured, Prince Richard had to design a cipher and an official painting of the Banner done. Timing was critical as the Duke was due in New Zealand in May 2010 for the 125th Anniversary of St John Ambulance (New Zealand).

Mr Clive Robinson, the Defence Force’s ceremonial uniform technical adviser, happened to be going to the United Kingdom a few weeks prior to the parade, so he was able to supervise the acquisition and preparation of the Duke’s uniform, and also to bring the Banner home with two weeks to spare.

Organising a 100-person RNZAMC guard with supernumeries, a Maori Welcome Party and a 21 Gun Salute took meticulous planning from 2HSB, and the support of various other 2LFG units, such as 2nd Engineer Regiment, 16 Field Regiment, 1 Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment, 2nd Logistics Battalion and also 1 Military Police Company. Antique ambulances were obtained, the Army Band provided support to the parade and Air Force photographers were on hand to record the event. In addition we were very grateful for the support given by the Formation and Regimental Sergeant Majors who made the effort to assist with the practices in the days before the parade. Their mentorship and leadership was critical to the successful parade which followed.

Fortuitously it wasn’t until forty-five minutes after the Duke

left Heathrow Airport, that it closed due to Icelandic volcanic ash. This parade was meant to be! Not even a dead battery in the Chief of Army’s car prior to him driving on would stop proceedings—jumper leads soon fixed that, although it did feel as if we were standing at ease for a long time.

The weather was perfect, the parade began, the band played, and the Duke, Associate Defence Minister Heather Roy, the Chief of Army, and Lieutenant Colonel Rob Krushka representing the Commander, 2 Land Force Group, arrived on parade. Also in attendance was Major General Paul Alexander, Director of the Australian Defence Health Services. The Welcome and 21 Gun Salute given, the inspection completed, the banner blessed and handed over by the Duke from Major Speedy Jacobs (the Banner Major) to Lieutenant Ron Christmas (the Banner Ensign). It was then duly paraded in slow and quick time, then Advanced in Review Order.

The day continued with a number of different luncheons, formal photographs and time for HRH to deliver a message from his wife, Colonel-in-Chief to the RNZAEC, meet the soldiers and view the medical displays in the conference hall.

That night the Banner was paraded at a celebratory ball at Awapuni Racecourse (home of a World War I memorial to Army medics), and the Banner now lies at 2 Health Support Battalion.

The Corps will always be grateful for the wide support given to us to achieve such a memorable day. We look forward to another 100 years of service to our fellow soldiers with the values represented in our Banner; a rich history of Courage, Commitment, Comradeship, and Integrity. Semper Agens Semper Quietus.

Organising a 100-persOn rnZaMC guard with supernuMeries, a MaOri welCOMe party and a 21 gun salute tOOk MetiCulOus planning frOM 2hsB, and the suppOrt Of variOus Other 2lfg units

Warriors from 1 RNZIR challenge their visitor, HRH the Duke of Gloucester

Private James Hill (front) props in recognition of the Duke ...

... and hongis with him.

Medical officer Captain Karlo Lalahi.

Principal Army Chaplain Lance Lukin and Chaplain Darren O’Callaghan bless the banner.

Soldiers look right in recognition of their royal guest.

The Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps.

ParaDe aPPoinTMenTSREVIEW OFFICER: HRH Prince Richard, Duke of GloucesterPARADE COMMANDER:LTCOL Andrew Dunn, Regimental ColonelPARADE SECOND IN COMMAND:Major Wendy McEwanPARADE ADJUTANT: apt K McMillanPARADE RSM:Warrant Officer Class One Mus Boykett

banner ParTyBANNER ENSIGN:Lieutenant R. Christmas, RNZAMCBANNER WARRANT OFFICER: Warrant Officer Class One T. Crowe, RNZAMCRIGHT BANNER ESCORT:Staff Sergeant J. Jessop, RNZAMCLEFT BANNER ESCORT: Staff Sergeant K. Gibbens, RNZAMCBANNER MAJOR:Major P. Jacobs, DSD, RNZAMC

ParaDe Sub-uniT CoMManDerSMajor A. Brooks, RNZAMCMajor B. Wood, RNZAMCMajor M. Richards, RNZAMCMajor P. Wright, RNZAMC

riGhT GuiDeSStaff Sergeant T. Spice, RNZAMCWarrant Officer Class One J. Boykett, RNZAMCStaff Sergeant A. Pere, RNZAMCWarrant Officer Class Two T. Crowe, RNZAMC

DruM MaJorStaff Sergeant P. E. J. Johnston, RNZIR

banD MaSTerStaff Sergeant T. J. Mitchell, RNZIR

ParaDe ChaPLainSChaplain Class II Lance Lukin, RNZCLDChaplain Class III Darren O’Callaghan, RNZCLD

The army band. at left is british bandsman Major Jason Griffiths, in new Zealand on Long Look exchange.

The Duke meets rnZaMC officers and soldiers after the formalities were finished.

hrh the Duke of Gloucester salutes.

I recall that one of our learned predecessors once said something to the effect of “If you have something and give it away, you are the wealthier for it.”

That certainly is the case for the survivors of the 27 Machine Gun and Infantry Battalion who on 21 October 2009 surrendered responsibility for the custody of the traditions and embellishments of the battalion to 2/1 RNZIR at Burnham.

The Commanding Officer 2/1 Battalion graciously invited the Christchurch branch of the 27 Battalion to Burnham on 30 April 2010, to see Battalion HQ which featured the charter document displayed proudly in the foyer, the refreshment room with its impressive display of Inter-unit trophies, and the Red Diamond Room.

The Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Hugh McAslan issued a warm welcome to the 27 Battalion veterans, partners and caregivers and gave a resume of the activities of the battalion, its arcs of responsibility and current deployments.

This was an eye opener for the visitors. Assistant Adjutant Second Lieutenant Zane Beeson spoke of the characteristics of both the Javelin and the .50 Cal Machine Gun accompanied with slides and a video which impressed the veterans. But not to the point where they were prepared to concede that the Vickers Machine gun had some serious competition—even if the machine gunners in the video were a bit younger and fitter.

The visitors then had the opportunity to meet the soldiers of the DFSW Platoon, complete with weapons and camouflage. This was getting closer to the truth and not surprisingly they were able to answer all the questions thrown at them. It was getting harder for the self-proclaimed “Best” of 70 years ago to accept that they may have been superceded.

The next move was to inspect some of the DFSW Platoon vehicles, with “51” Tac Signs and weapons mounted. Great stuff! There’s no way our old half ton and three-ton Chevs would ever have done what these vehicles can do. Again the drivers were a

mine of information and clearly knew their Jobs.

The clincher was the artwork on DFSW headquarters which proudly display our old crossed Machine Guns and crown. Clearly these guys like us!

The stay ended with a visit to the Warrant Officers and Sergeants’ mess, a drink or two and an enjoyable lunch. We were pleased to be joined by LTCOL McAslan, the Regimental Sergeant Major Warrant Officer Class One James Moohan and members of the DFSW platoon.

Now a word to the CO 2/1 Bn RNZIR: Sir, we had a wonderfully instructive day with you, your officers and your men. We were treated with warmth and respect. Thank you. We were and are impressed with the training of your soldiers, and are pleased to be reminded that you are (like us) professional soldiers. We now concede that as machine gunners you are our worthy successors and deserve the title THE BEST.

tHe oLd and graCIous ComPare tHeIr sKILLs wItH 2/1’s FInestby Captain (rtd) evan (Snow) Williams, 27 Machine Gun and infantry battalion

who iS new Zealand’S SeCond larGeSt GrouP of VeteranS?If you answered yes to “Are you a veteran” and are still serving, then the answer to the above question is you are! The second largest group of veterans in New Zealand, after World War Two veterans, is actually made up by those in uniform right now. In the near future this situation will inevitably change so that New Zealand’s greatest number of veterans will be those serving in the Defence Force.

So what?Without the support of new younger members, the traditional RSA role of safeguarding the interests of New Zealand veterans may be lost. Contrary to what you may think, the RSA is not about men older than your Granddad getting together for a beer at some club once a year. The RSA was established by young men and women returning from the conflict of World War One who

wanted to maintain the comradeship they had enjoyed while serving, and provide welfare to those members less fortunate than themselves. This basic premise still holds true today. As a serving member of the Defence Force, you are never too young to join the RSA, and you are fully entitled to do so. By joining the RSA you will be part of an organisation dedicated to the same ideals upheld by the Defence Force, and help ensure the continued existence of our Country’s greatest non-government veteran organisation.

are you intereSted?If you are interested in joining, give your local RSA a call on the number below or visit the National website at www.rsa.org.nz for more contact details:Papakura 09 298 5091 Palmerston North 06 353 2010Upper Hutt 04 529 0016 Christchurch 03 379 9724

In the eyes of the Government, and the Royal New Zealand Returned and Services Association (RNZRSA), if you have deployed with the NZDF to BOSNIA, TIMOR-LESTE, AFGHANISTAN, OR SOLOMON ISLANDS, then you are a veteran. This makes you a New Zealand citizen of special significance, and as a result, eligible to certain benefits not necessarily available to others. While this may not be important to you now, it almost certainly will be in the future. The RNZRSA, or RSA for short, has historically been the organisation external to government that has best represented the interests of New Zealand veterans.

are you a veteran?

old and new compare notes. The visitors to 2/1 rnZir gather at the camp.

armyPeoPLe17Issue 410 | 15 june 2010

Representatives from Northland community groups, 3rd Auckland and Northland Battalion Group, the Youth Development Unit, Army Recruiting, and the New Zealand Cadet Forces (above) met in Kaitaia on 19 May.

Battalion Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Chris Powell organised the meeting because of a perceived information gap among some sectors of the community, and he saw the need to update community groups in the Northland region. LTCOL Powell said understanding and shared effort was a cornerstone to developing and maintaining strong and enduring links between Army and the communities from which the Territorial Force was drawn. “The effectiveness of these links is only strengthened when there is a coordinated approach to community engagement.”

Presentations were provided by the Northern Region Recruiting Office, Youth Development Unit, NZ Cadet Forces, and 3rd Auckland and Northland Battalion Group, covering Territorial Force recruitment proposals for the Far North, the Defence Force-supported Youth Development programme conducted out of Hobsonville, and linkages with the local New Zealand Cadet Forces.

Mr Mangu Awarau, representing one of 12 local community groups at the meeting, applauded the opportunity to discuss concerns and share ideas on how the Army could work in with the community to benefit local youth.

The competitive nature of Army recruitment and implications for potential recruits was acknowledged by the meeting. The Youth Life Skills approach to assisting the conduct of military-

style regionally based programmes incorporating ethos, values,

team work, and leadership, through adventure-based activities

drew considerable interest and positive engagement. Those

who attended the meeting discussed the need and benefits of

sharing resources and facilities, and another meeting will be

held next month to form action plans.

LTCOL Powell was particularly grateful to the briefing team

and thanked Sergeant Maaka McKinney, YLS (Northern); Staff

Sergeant Aroha Bentson, NRRO; and Flight Lieutenant Mathew

Tailby, NZCF; for their contribution to the hui.

This meeting is the precursor to others to be held in Kaikohe,

Dargaville, and Whangarei.

Far north community hui

Army Central Welfare’s major Leave Centre project to replace the old units at Rotorua has been completed. The three new Lockwood three bedroom homes built by John Hodges Construction Ltd were officially opened by the deputy Chief of Army Brigadier Tim Keating on 11 May.

Representatives from local Maori, neighbours, John Hodges and his team, Northern Region Property Management Staff, and Stuart Feildes and Trevor Gilbert, who oversaw the project, attended the opening. Max Hughes of Green Acres, who now provides custodial services for the new leave centre, and staff from 6 Hauraki Regiment also attended.

Waiouru Camp’s chaplain, Padre Darren O’Callaghan, blessed the new homes with the able support of Padre Richard Smith, a visiting chaplain from Great Britain.

The new units are built on the same site as the former units which were small and out-dated.

After cutting the ribbon and unveiling the plaque to record the opening, BRIG Keating addressed those present.

The leave centres, he said were one of the most widely used welfare facilities as they appealed to both military and civilian employees and were located in popular holiday destinations. “Rotorua has and always will hold a special place as a holiday destination of choice due to the abundance of natural features and the special home of Maori culture.

“What you see today is the foresight in the Committee’s decision and I believe you will all agree that that the new stand alone three bedroom homes will offer much more comfort and flexibility for Army employees and their families while they enjoy holidays in Rotorua.”

John Hodges and his team were commended for the standard of their workmanship and their dedication to seeing the redevelopment completed on time.

The new Rotorua homes which can sleep up to seven people in three bedrooms represent a significant welfare benefit for both current and former employees of the Army.

Once again this new development demonstrates that the great foresight shown by Army people when leave centres were first established some fifty years ago remains alive and well.

rotorua Leave Centre oPened

Deputy Chief of army brigadier Tim Keating cuts the ribbon, assisted by Leave Centre administrator Mrs Janine brosnan.

Padre Darren o’Callaghan blesses the lounge in one of the units. at rear is Padre richard Smith, from Great britain.

18armynewsIssue 410 | 15 june 2010

by Staff Sergeant Koro hatiThe Royal New Zealand Army Logistic Regiment (RNZALR) Corps Week held recently saw the Engineering Wing, Trade Training School, co-ordinate the Farriers Trophy, Maintenance Support Trade Competition at Burnham Military Camp.

The aim of the event was to develop and raise the operational trade skills of RNZALR MS trade personnel, instil competitive spirit, promote Esprit de Corps within RNZALR Units and have some fun throughout.

The Trade Skills Competition Trophy was first competed for in 2003 at Waiouru Military Camp. The competition was a relay-style race between teams of five tradesmen, loosely based on a multi-task Forward Repair Team, (FRT) format.

The relay consisted of five practical trade related activities, a recovery task and trade/general knowledge written quiz. To promote competitiveness and encourage spectators, a maximum of two teams per Formation Workshop were entered and raced against each other concurrently.

Over the years, the format of the competition has transformed to cater to spectators and in 2007 the “Scrapheap Challenge” concept was introduced.

The Farriers Trophy is awarded to the winning regional Maintenance Support team.

The Trophy is a chrome anvil with a brass Hammer and Tongs on the front, mounted on a varnished wooden base. It was manufactured by the Engineering Wing, Trade Training School.

Three teams competed in this year’s competition, from 3 Workshop Company, 2 Workshop Company, and a combined team. The combined team was to be made up of workshop personnel from TSSU’s and other Units Workshops. However this year, the only Unit that could provide tradesmen was 2 Engineer Regiment therefore the team was topped up with tradesmen from 2 and 3 Workshop Companies.

The team composition consisted of a non-competing Team Manager and six tradesmen, one from each trade group. An armourer, electrical fitter, maintenance fitter, electronic technician, vehicle mechanic and one other trade person of choice.

This year would prove to be one of the closest competitions, with just three points separating first and second place.ConCePtThe “Scrapheap Challenge” concept was to design and manufacture a ‘contraption’ that could crush and dispose aluminium drink cans into a recycling bin positioned 2–20 metres away, and also launch a crushed can as far as possible.

Teams were judged on teamwork, craftsmanship, design and practicability. ConStruCtion PhaSeThe first day started with a “surprise” 60-question team theory exam. The questions were aimed at all trades at a basic to intermediate level, with some questions of the Corps History thrown in as well. The total marks gained from the exam determined how much “spending money” each team received. The money was then used to purchase any extra material the teams required.

After the exam, each team was given a hydraulic pumping unit, wheels, bearings, two hydraulic motors, electronic

joystick remote and a work container. They all then hooked into their projects under the ever watchful eye of the Trade Training School instructors.

At the end of the first day all the teams were well into their projects with no clear advantage to any team; this was going to be a close one.

The final day started early and each team got into their stride straight away. As the day went on the contraptions developed, looking more and more like their designs.

The teams had until 1500 to complete the project and be on the starting line. However, the 2 Workshop team had minor technical problems and were late, therefore they were penalised and deducted 20 points. teStinG PhaSeThe testing phase of the competition had two events. The first was to consume then crush 24 cans of fizzy drink and deposit them in a bin approximately 20m away from their location. The second test was in the form of a distance challenge, where each team had 12 chances to throw a can as far as possible. Both events required the entire team to remain behind a start line with only the machine allowed forward of the line.

First up was 3 Workshop Company. Their contraption was a remote controlled wheeled chassis with a hydraulic press crusher / catapult combination.

They set a very competitive time taking just seven minutes to consume all their cans and crushing them one at a time in the hydraulic press. The cans were transferred by hand into a hopper at the front of the machine, and the machine was then driven out to the target bin. Once in the correct place a string was pulled opening the bottom of the hopper. All 24 crushed cans were then deposited into the bin—a perfect result for the team.

Down 20 points for a late penalty, 2 Workshop Company had a similar concept to 3 Workshop Company— a remote controlled wheeled chassis. But that is where the similarities end.

When given the green light the team members finished off their cans, dropping the empties into a hopper above opposing rollers. The machine was then driven out to the target, and, using the remote, the soldiers activated the rollers which crushed the cans. As they passed through they fell into the bin below. They managed a near perfect result getting 23 cans into the bin in five minutes 30 seconds.

The Combined team had the only radically different design— theirs was not mobile. This machine seemed to be a collaboration of shotgun meets mortar.

As with the previous teams, they had to consume their cans first. Once a can was empty it was placed on a platform, above which was the hydraulic crusher. The can was crushed but instead of putting it in the launcher by hand they used

an ingenious method of transferring it by using a car electric window opener. The next steps involved pulling the launcher back and locking it in which tensioned rubber bungees. The locking pin was removed allowing the bungee to contract and catapult the can into the air. Although the machine was the most entertaining to watch, it produced mixed results and ultimately a mechanical failure prevented them from continuing. The team did however to manage to cover one of the directing staff in orange fizzy drink after crushing a full can by accident …“Yeah Right”.

With only two teams remaining, the next event was the longest distance test.

After a quick meeting with the judges, it was agreed that the teams could go forward from the line to re-load their machines.

First up again, 3 Workshop Company. They drove their machine out as far as the umbilical cord allowed using the remote control, loaded up the catapult and fired the can.

After completing all their throws the final average was 47 metres.

Next was 2 Workshop Company and they had a little trick up their sleeve. They also used the remote control capability of their machine. However unlike the previous team they attached a piece of string to a kill switch. The machine was set

off and when it had reached the desired distance they pulled the string, killing the power and stopping it. The next step was to fire their pneumatic cannon. The cannon was charged up with an inert gas prior to going out. Again using the humble string the valve was opened and three cans exploded out of the end. Once all the cans were fired an average distance of 81m was achieved. ConCluSionFinal results saw the Combined team third, 3 Workshop Company second and the winners of the 2010 Farriers Trophy with their superior teamwork, craftsmanship and ingenuity, were 2 Workshop Company. They were presented the trophy by BRIG (Rtd) Talbot.

Overall the competition was conducted in good spirit, produced excellent projects and the competitors showed off their trade skills, ingenuity, and had a bit of fun on the way.

A huge vote of thanks to the official sponsors, Blackwoods Paykel and also Trade Tools for the provision of prizes for the teams, which were very much appreciated. Thanks also to Warrant Officer Class One Wayne Earle, and Warrant Officers Class Two Roger Middleton and Jock MacCauley for their support and assistance.

Finally, congratulations and thanks are extended to Sergeant Reijo Kokko, and his team and all the competitors for making this year’s competition the success that it was.

maIntenanCe suPPort trade ComPetItIon

soldiers hone their skills in

tHe “sCraPHeaP CHaLLenge” ConCePt was to desIgn and manuFaCture a ‘ContraPtIon’ tHat CouLd CrusH and dIsPose aLumInIum drInK Cans Into a reCyCLIng bIn PosItIoned at a dIstanCe between 2 – 20 metres away, and aLso LaunCH a CrusHed Can as Far as PossIbLe.

armyPeoPLe19Issue 410 | 15 june 2010

reGT no ranK iniTS SurnaMe effeCTive CorPSJ754270 SSGT RW TOI 4-Dec-09 NZICR1021491 LT J.J GARDNER 27-Jan-10 RNZIRM993634 WO2 J KAHUKIWA 22-Feb-10 RNZSIGSL1025741 LCPL TE POMARE 24-Feb-10 RNZALRA990449 WO2 TE HOGGART 12-Mar-10 RNZIRH1007016 CPL SP KELLY 25-Mar-10 RNZALRL1013505 CPL CB LOWE 25-Mar-10 RNZALRN1019556 LCPL JI MACLACHLAN 25-Mar-10 RNZALRG1005129 CPL G RODGER 25-Mar-10 RNZALRW993781 MAJ A.C SUMNER 25-Mar-10 RNZACC1015751 CPL KT ARTHUR 30-Mar-10 RNZALRA1005169 CAPT G.P WHITTON 31-Mar-10 RNZAMCL1021486 LT J.B HAMILTON 4-Apr-10 RNZIRV1017217 CHAPCL3 H.M.L KIRK 8-Apr-10 RNZCHDN1019303 LT C.J BOYD 15-Apr-10 RNZEC1004918 LT G.L GOFTON 15-Apr-10 RNZEB1007010 SGT WS ATKINSON 23-Apr-10 NZAPTCM1011045 SGT CR GRAY 23-Apr-10 RNZAMCD1008967 SGT AWP KING 23-Apr-10 RNZALRU1005118 SGT AD ORLOWSKI 23-Apr-10 RNZALRL1017461 CPL CD TURNBALL 27-Apr-10 RNZALRL1014655 CPL LW MCGRUER 28-Apr-10 NZAPTCQ1015441 CPL TL AVERY 30-Apr-10 RNZALRW1006201 SGT JL PRITCHARD 30-Apr-10 NZAPTCF1008371 SGT PJ WALKER 3-May-10 RNZALRA1021499 LT M.J.P BARRETT 4-May-10 RNZAG1004577 SSGT JP HILL 5-May-10 RNZALRS995801 CPL PA HASLAM 7-May-10 RNZALRU1001944 CPL JR HAYS 7-May-10 RNZET1016203 LCPL MNT HEPI 7-May-10 RNZALRK1016816 CPL MCK LEE 7-May-10 NZICT1004565 CPL RA MARTIN 8-May-10 RNZALRW1014941 CPL DM AMOS 10-May-10 RNZALRY1016162 CPL AA CUNNINGHAM 10-May-10 RNZALRR999204 SSGT GM WHITE 12-May-10 RNZACA1017612 CPL JT TWENTYMAN 13-May-10 RNZALRJ1003429 SGT TJ POWELL 19-May-10 RNZALRX1021520 LT A.M FRANCIS 24-May-10 RNZIRW1019771 LCPL CJM TWEEDIE 24-May-10 RNZACN1020959 LCPL HW WARD 24-May-10 RNZACX994817 LTCOL M.D WESTON 25-May-10 RNZAT1009372 CPL TKL DAVIES 28-May-10 RNZALRE1017685 CPL MC HESKETH 28-May-10 RNZAMCU1015468 CPL SD SCADDEN-O'KEEFE 28-May-10 RNZAMC

PromotIons by army Senior Communications adviser bas bolynLockheed Martin Global Incorporated (LMGI) is excited about the opportunities that Service Agreement 1977 (SA 1977) presents for the Defence Force, Army and Police, the programme manager, Andy Shaffer says.

“We are especially keen to engage in the transformational aspects of the project, and are looking forward to the challenge.”

SA 1977 is the agreement that takes over NZ Army Contracts FM 585, Trentham and Linton, FM1060 Waiouru and NZ Police services. It includes support to the medical store, and warehousing, repair and workshop functions at Trentham ration packing and some workshop personnel at Linton; and the workshop facilities, quartermaster support, transport, range management, security and minor support services in Waiouru.

Andy says Lockheed Martin made a strategic decision to enter the New Zealand simulation, training and logistics arena, and is looking forward to commencing service delivery of the warehousing, repair and support services on 1 July.

The contract allows for a period up to 30 years, and has broad terms that allow for expansion in different areas.

“We have a New Zealand-based Business Development director who, along with myself, is highly focused on future opportunities. We are here for the long term,” says Andy.

“During the contract tendering process the Army’s approach was premised on the principles “simpler, smarter, better” to highlight the desire for change from the Army Logistics Transformation Programme,” Commander Logistics (Army) Colonel Charles Lott says.

“The quality and level of logistic services the Defence Force presently receives will continue and the focus remains on providing end to end logistics functions so our people can focus on their core business—war-fighting,” says COL Lott .

“It is about ensuring the best possible outcomes for Army and the Defence Force are achieved.” The transition process has involved systematically going through each work area and engaging

with incumbent staff and Army personnel to ensure the i’s have been dotted and the t’s crossed. “We’re making sure that Army and Police are fully engaged in the transition process and this

includes Army, Police and Lockheed Martin members working closely as part of the transition team,” Andy says.

“This has been a team effort, and I am pleased at the level of engagement I have seen from all parties. This has truly been a partnership.”

Working groups related to the output areas were set up to ensure that specific details essential to service delivery on 1 July are covered. They consisted of TSL, SPEL, Army and Lockheed Martin personnel so there was cross-party input and understanding.

“In a few areas there may be some day one changes in how business is done day-to-day,” says Andy.

For example, some aspects around invoicing procedures, IT, and business systems may change. Those affected by the changes will be kept abreast of the developments,” says Andy.

“It’s a major transition process, and having Army feedback is pivotal to helping things go smoothly and for us as providers to continue improving into the future.”

For further information please see the intranet page http://org/l-ags/pages/SA-1977/SA1977-Updates.aspx

transition underway For new logistics provider

President José Ramos-Horta bestowed medals on 170 New Zealand Defence Force personnel in recognition of their contribution to the country’s independence.

The ceremony was held at Nicolau Lobato Presidential Palace in Dili, and participated in by New Zealand’s Governor-General Anand Satyanand, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Ameerah Haq, East Timorese Defence Force [F-FDTL] Commander, Major-General Taur Matan

Ruak, and other State leaders of Timor-Leste.

President Ramos-Horta said that the medals were an accolade for the New Zealand Defence Force, who joined INTERFET [the International Force for East Timor] to promote security in the region in 1999.

“Today we bestow medals on the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) from New Zealand and it is an accolade for their

contribution to Timor-Leste to keep security in the country,” President Ramos-Horta said.

Sir Anand Satyanand said the New Zealand Defence Force would continue to maintain security in the country, but it would depend on the security situation in Timor-Leste and the agreement signed with the United Nations.

Story courtesy of the open Source Centre in timor-leste.

president ramos-horta presents medals to deFence Force personnel

andy Shaffer

Colonel Charles Lott

new Zealand's Governor-General anand Satyanand greets Colonel James hill, new Zealand’s Defence attache in indonesia.

President ramos horta presents a medal to Squadron Leader Michael baker.

20armyPeoPLeIssue 410 | 15 june 2010

Health insurance premiums for almost all Southern Cross Defence Force members, including NZDF scheme members, is to increase. The average premium increase for Defence Force members will be about 25 per cent, however there will be considerable variation in these premium increases depending on age, plan type, and claiming experience of individual members. The increases will be effective from 1 August 2010 and members will receive individual letters providing details of the premium changes. For members deployed overseas these letters will be sent to their New Zealand home address.

The Defence Force values the health and wellbeing of their employees by providing access to health insurance from Southern Cross Health Society. As Defence Force military personnel already have access to the Defence Medical Service, a significant feature of the Southern Cross health insurance scheme is that employees can hold non-claiming policies at a nominal cost while at the same time have claiming policies to meet the healthcare needs of their families. This is an exclusive offer to NZDF military personnel.

Health insurers have faced a number of challenges over the last year or so. In November 2009, the Health Funds Association

of New Zealand (Southern Cross’ industry body) reported that claims costs had grown at double the rate of premiums over the last two years. This was because more people were claiming on their health insurance and the average value of each claim had increased.

Last year alone, Southern Cross paid out 96 cents in claims for every dollar of premium received. While this claims reimbursement level represents tremendous value for members, it is commercially not sustainable in terms of Southern Cross’ long term growth and building financial reserves for the future.

Southern Cross is the only health insurer in New Zealand with an Affiliated Provider network (selected health service providers). The medical professionals and health facilities within this network provide Southern Cross members with certain services at agreed prices for a number of procedures. This helps to contain claim costs which in turn assists with moderating premium increases.

Even though premiums have gone up this year, Defence Force personnel will still have lower health insurance premium rates than if they joined as individual members. If rising health insurance premiums are a concern for Defence Force personnel

and their families then Southern Cross can assist by:

Reviewing the level of cover members currently have and re-assessing the best plan option for them.

Adding an excess (the amount members contribute to a claim) to their policy. Excesses can be applied to the Wellbeing plans.

Moving from a comprehensive plan like UltraCare which provides cover for an extensive range of day-to-day healthcare needs and surgical costs to a plan like the Wellbeing One base plan provides a safety net for high cost surgeries.

Ongoing membership is important for continuity of cover. Over the last year Southern Cross has enhanced its Member programme, refreshed its Member card and the discounts and savings members receive on a wide range of health and wellbeing products and services from Southern Cross partners. Southern Cross’ healthy lifestyle and low claim reward schemes also provide premium reductions to eligible members.

Members are urged to call Southern Cross Customer Services on 0800 800 181. Southern Cross’ staff are happy to discuss Defence Force members’ needs in order to make a decision about the level of cover for them and their family.

southern cross deFence Force health insurance premiums to rise

by Carey ClementsAs thousands gathered around cenotaphs throughout New Zealand on Anzac Day to commemorate the fallen, the Wellington-based Bravo Company soldiers of 7th Wellington (City of Wellington’s Own) and Hawke’s Bay Battalion said goodbye to one of their own after an outstanding period of long service in the Territorial Force(TF).

In a career stretching back to 1973, Warrant Officer Class One Jim Hogg has been one of the real stalwarts and characters in the TF.

WO1 Hogg initially joined in 1972 and went to Fiji with the QA Waikato Wellington East Coast (Wai-Wec) Squadron before being medically discharged. However due to an incorrect medical diagnosis, he was able to rejoin on 1 January 1973.

“I am probably the only soldier who ever officially joined up on New Year’s day,” WO1 Hogg joked. As his father held a job with the Ministry of Works, WO1 Hogg was based in Waiouru at the time of joining and after completing Basic, went straight into the Queen’s Alexandra (Waikato, Wellington, East Coast) Squadron.

In the mid 1970s, WO1 Hogg moved to Masterton and remained a member of the Squadron. In the early 1980s Corporal Hogg went on his OE to Great Britain and for several years was a member of the Queen’s Own Yeomanry, a Territorial Regiment of wheeled armour.

“The biggest exercise I have ever been on in terms of sheer numbers was Exercise Lionheart in Germany where we had

20,000 mobilised including 2 Para as the enemy. This was just prior to them deploying to the Falklands,” WO1 Hogg recalled.

After returning to New Zealand in 1983, then Sergeant Hogg was posted back to Wai/Wec as a Troop Sergeant. After various appointments within Wai/Wec Squadron, SSgt Hogg was promoted to WO2 in March 1991 and became the Squadron Sergeant Major in a position he held for a number of years. With regionalisation throughout the Territorial Force in 1999, WO1 Hogg was posted to the training team at 2nd Land Force Group before receiving his final posting to Bravo Company, 7 WnHB Battalion.

WO1 Hogg deployed on CRIB 11 to Afghanistan in 2007 as the S9.

“It was a terrific experience,” he recalled, “as going overseas on operations is the pinnacle for any Territorial soldier.”

Despite being in an infantry unit for his last ten years, WO1 Hogg has no doubts as to where his true loyalty lies.

“I am a tankie and after live firing with M113 APC’s and Scorpions, the C9 just doesn’t do it for me,” WO1 Hogg said with a smile on his face.

During his 37 years, WO1 Hogg has seen many changes, but some things nevertheless remain.

“What I will treasure most will be the relationships developed as soldiers. I have known so many under various testing and trying circumstances from the good guys to the larrikins and with it came a huge esprit de corps.

“Up until East Timor in 2000 there was no opportunity for overseas deployments other than Exercises like Tasman Reserves, but today the Territorial Force soldier has a lot more opportunity as the Army has realised that we are as a vital component as the first reserve.”

WO1 Hogg said Anzac Day was a good time to end his career as he felt he has ‘paid his dues’ and like the ‘Tankie’ he so proudly is, was pleased to see an Armoured Corps presence during the Wellington Anzac Day dawn service.

“In addition to me as the Parade Marshall, we also had the presence of the Chief of the Army, Major General Jones along with the President of the Wellington RSA, Colonel (Retired) Trevor McComish which covered all bases. It was nice to hear the General slip into his speech the Ode to the Mounted Trooper.”

WO1 Hogg ended Anzac Day by again being the Parade Marshall at Taita Cemetery, which is one of the largest Returned Services cemeteries in Wellington.

“It means more to me being there (at Taita Cemetery) than just being at a brick and mortar monument as we are literally thanking those beneath us. It is quite special watching the Girl Guides and Brownies lay sprigs of rosemary and a poppy on each returned grave.”

Later in the day WO1 Hogg received a number of farewell presents and speeches at the Taita RSA, including one by Lieutenant Colonel Jeremy Harker on behalf of all the Officers and soldiers of 7WNHB Battalion Group.

wo1 Hogg CaLLs It a dayWo 1 hogg’s soldiers farewell him.Wo 1 Jim hogg

armyPeoPLe21Issue 410 | 15 june 2010

CROSSWORD

PREVIOUS PUZZLE

BY MIKE DUNCAN

1 2 3 4 5 6

6

7 8

9 10 11

12 13 14

15 16 17 18

19 20

21

ACROSS:1 Volunteer reserves7 French policeman8 Peruvian capital9 Assault10 Mark12 Against (pfx)13 WomanÕs name14 Discharge15 Christchurch suburb17 Line of troops preventing

access to an area19 Rise and fall of body of

water 20 Protection21 TheyÕre laid down to

hinder enemy observation (5,7)

DOWN:2 Happening3 -------- sickness, from

nuclear fallout

4 West Coast town5 Using misrepresentation6 Conßict11 Source of information12 Valuable items13 Shorten16 Device for connecting

remote computers18 Indian eg

G E N E R A L I S S U EN A N V A

P R I V A T E S B U N DO E P L U

B L A S T S I S R A E LD R E T

A J A R S E E A I M SR O U DM Y O P I C F E I N T SO Z C N AU P O N U M B R E L L AR N M S O

D E M O B I L I S I N G

Crossword#102 reviewed by Colonel (rtd) ray SeymourI was never in the ‘Gurr Battalion’ but knew the late Brigadier Bob Gurr very well. It was with deep regret that I learned, while I was progressing this book review of this new edition of the original publication, that Bob Gurr had passed away. This review then took on a new meaning. It became more than just a book review but also an epitaph to this fine commander and warrior. A quote from an unnamed contributor to this book said it so well:

“It has been said that a good unit mirrors the qualities of its commander. I would like to think that the 1 RNZIR of our day reflected the undoubted professionalism, high standards, dignity and humanity of Bob Gurr.” May he rest in peace.

This is an exciting contribution to New Zealand’s modern military history and I applaud Willson Scott Publishing for seeing fit to re-publish Gurr’s book. The re-publication of Voices From a border War is also timely as it has coincided with a regular reunion of Gurr’s ‘warriors’.

Voices From a border War provides the reader with a succinct and most informative history of the First Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment during the period of 1963–1965. But this is not a ‘facts and figures’ history. Bob Gurr has been able to craft an excellent book, well supported by his personal photographs, of just what occurred during his period in command of this Battalion. And I guess what makes his efforts more readable are the anecdotes and humour that he has weaved into the story. Sure there are paragraphs on the organisation of a battalion, but for the non-military reader, having this limited knowledge will allow the reader to better understand how Gurr moved his Battalion around from post to post or area to area. Voices From a border War also ably describes the reason why the ‘Gurr Battalion’ armed themselves to counter a border incursion into Malaysia by the Indonesian Army. Later on in the book, he exposes the operations that his Battalion undertook, this time out of Sarawak, and the ‘Claret Operations’ that occurred across the border against Indonesian military targets.

Voices From a border War tells the story of how Gurr trained his Battalion in the foothills of the Southern Alps, at a location fondly remembered by ‘us old soldiers’ as ‘Little Malaya’. The only problem that ‘Little Malaya’ had as a training base for service in South East Asia was the frequent heavy snowfalls that had to be endured while training for jungle operations. Gurr also relates a story of securing the services of Timor ponies to assist in the difficult task of re-supplying his forward troops in the jungle—he didn’t write that most of the weight these ponies carried was made up of the chaff needed for their own sustenance. But anything to relieve the very heavy loads that the soldiers were required to carry on their backs would have been a god send while they were operating in hot and humid conditions.

The humour that Bob Gurr has inserted into Voices From a border War is priceless. Need a good laugh? Read about the kiwi subaltern who, probably lubricated by a can or three of ‘Tiger’ beer was attempting to make small talk with a senior officer from the Scots Guards at a cocktail party. The Scots Guards’ officer was resplendent in kilt and sporran. Our kiwi officer got a little mixed up when he suggested that the colonel had a “very fine scrotum”!

What makes Voices From a border War a good read is not only its clear and concise structure but it is one of the few stories that has been written by a New Zealand Commanding Officer on what his Battalion did while serving in South East Asia. What a shame that the other Commanding Officers didn’t undertake the same task, because there are many fine stories to be told. We must not forget that New Zealand infantry battalions served in South East Asia for 32 years before 1 RNZIR was withdrawn from Singapore in 1989. I am of the opinion that no other military unit in the world has ever spent that length of time away from their home country. There will be no doubt from reading Voices From a border War that ‘Gurr’s Battalion’ served our country with distinction. This re-published book well deserves the high grade that I give it and I am sure that Bob Gurr would have been delighted to have known that his previous work had now been re-published.• COL Seymour is a Vietnam Veteran, and CEO of the New Zealand Army Museum.

voICes From a border warBorneo 1963-1965by robert Gurr

reviewed by Major helen Murphy.‘Systems thinking in the public Sector’ is a walk through the successive improvement regimes that have swept across the British public sector since the Thatcher era. The author John Seddon, a British occupational psychologist and Systems Thinking consultant explains why these regimes have not succeeded in delivering their promised business benefits.

The relevance of this book to New Zealand Army may seem fleeting at first glance, but two factors make this relevant; the adoption by the Army Leadership Framework of Systems Thinking as a complex problem solving tool, and the current reorganisation of Headquarters New Zealand Defence Force to a shared services model. Unfortunately much of the available systems thinking material is reflective of the manufacturing and engineering sectors that gave birth to the approach. This book analyses a more applicable environment – the Public Sector.

Seddon begins his book with the argument that UK politicians, the Audit Commission and Senior Public Sector managers have been misled by the manufacturing paradigm that finds its economies in ‘batching’. This has generated the erroneous view that the savings are made by centralising services into back office functions, while front office services are simplified and templated.

According to Seddon, this inevitably leads to systems that are poorly postured to deal with the actual demand that is placed upon them, which is often more complex and variable. This variation in demand causes havoc as the system’s initial failure to respond results causes increasingly frustrated customers to escalate their problems; generating second and third order demands. Seddon has a name for this: failure demand. In an analysis of customer interactions with a local council, 66 % of face to face; 79% of postal and 56 % of telephone contacts were failure demand; i.e. the customer was following up on an existing but unsolved problem. Seddon’s experience over a 24-year career as a Service industry systems thinking consultant is that these figures are typical. The resources tied up in servicing this failure demand actually represent the greatest opportunity

for improvement in public sector efficiency.

Seddon expands in the second part of the book how initial ‘work design’ errors are then compounded by the cost accounting and measurement obsession that comes with ‘value for money’ initiatives. Romping through the systemic errors of the choice agenda, deliverology, public value, citizen empowerment, and public sector reform initiatives, John Seddon demonstrates that whenever attention is diverted from doing the core work, costs go up while service levels plummet. Examples from the police, housing and benefits environments provide illuminating and perversely entertaining examples of this phenomenon.

Of note from the leadership framework perspective, is that one of the dynamics that underpins this dysfunctional picture is the lack of trust between the politicians and their civil service. The former believe the latter can only be incentivised by targets, and require close monitoring by independent bodies such as Audit Commission. What Seddon convincingly explains is how the public sector responds to this pressure—diverting work to ensure that targets are met, whilst customer demands are not. An example of this in action was given regarding housing benefits claimants. The back office staff had a 28 day target for claims processing, however if a claim form contained any errors or omissions the case would be closed and the claimant required to re-initiate. Although this office ‘looked’ like they were meeting their targets, 40% of claims were being churned in this way. From the claimant perspective the process was taking an

average of 98 days. Unfortunately those at the front and middle of this system are the ones that can identify just how damaging this is; morale plummets, and the workforce begins to earn the lack of trust that was initially placed in it. Of note Seddon’s journey from occupational psychologist to systems thinker began from a realisation that the dysfunctional behaviours he was being asked to ‘treat’ were systemic and not individual problems.

Seddon’s solution to these problems is to instead focus on ‘economies of flow’, generating savings by understanding the customer demand, cleaning up how the work flows through the system and eradicating the reasons for failure demand. The work redesign focuses on empowering the ‘front office’ to meet their predictable demand and providing support for them to deal with unpredictable demand. The improved design reduces failure

demand, increases resources and provides a more rewarding work environment.

The book is a thought provoking read, and will lead you to ponder the systems with which you interact—either as a customer or provider, and whether those systems are empowered to meet the need. It highlights lessons relevant to any organisation in any country; centralised services aren’t more efficient, targets are dangerously blunt instruments, and a worker’s behaviour is germane to the system they inhabit. Moreover, in these challenging times, counting costs causes more costs, whereas trust is free. • Major Murphy is a serving Army officer

systems tHInKIng In tHe PubLIC seCtor, tHe FaILure oF tHe reForm regIme...and tHe manIFesto For a better way. by John Seddon.

arounD The WronG Way. In the Laurence Binyon poem “For the Fallen”, verses of which were reproduced in the May issue of Army News, two words were transposed. The first line of the best known verse should read “They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old” not “They shall not grow old….”

22armyPeoPLeIssue 410 | 15 june 2010

by Warrant officer Class one PJ harimate, Master Driver Land ComponentThe awareness, knowledge and skill of Defence motorcycle riders was honed at a motorcycle road safety skills event at Trentham Camp recently.

Headquarters Joint Forces NZ (HQ JFNZ) in conjunction with Headquarters Trentham Regional Support Battalion (HQ TRSB), NZ Police, NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) and Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) conducted the event which was sponsored by the Land Component Commander Brigadier Dave Gawn.

It was open to all motorcycle riders in the Defence Force (civilian and military) in the Trentham and wider Wellington areas and their immediate family members.

The event was run by NZ Police motorcyclist instructors under the guidance of National Police Motorcycle Trainer, Royal NZ Police College, Sergeant Greg Thomas.

The riders were organised into groups and participated in a round robin of slow manoeuvre activities consisting of the following: Kerb – pull out to the left or right, slow cone weave, slow off set cone weave, boxed figure of eight and the “Randomizer”—a series of cones in a boxed formation where riders negotiated a route weaving around the cones and had to use a different exit point each time.

During the week before the event the weather had been particularly bad and the weather forecast for the Saturday was much the same. However, it did clear slightly at the start of the event, but the road surface was still wet. This made it even more difficult for riders but generally everyone did very well even when the weather deteriorated later on. The type of bikes that riders rode ranged from big cruisers to performance road bikes,

and a scooter. The experience of the riders ranged from learner to seasoned riders.

Observers from the following organisations also attended to foster closer co-operation with other government departments and the local community: Upper Hutt City Council Road Safety Co-ordinator, Joanne Kinnaird, Roadsafe Limited Motorcycle Riding Techniques, Andrew Templeton; Driving Standards Manager Jim Furneaux, and Senior Programme Advisor (Education) Roy Hitchcock, both from NZTA, and Inspector Peter Baird, Road Policing Manager, Wellington.

ACC material was handed out to riders at the end of the event, including the Ride Forever DVD, Riding in Groups DVD and a gear guide. They were also given the motorcyclists’ guide for the Rimutaka Hill and the Wairarapa, produced by Wairarapa Road Safety Council.

All riders completed a multiple choice theory quiz relating to motorcycle riding and legislation. The aim was to get the riders thinking about issues, in particular new rules that may have come in since they sat their licence theory test. All forms were entered into a prize draw and the three winners, Mr Jack Chan, J9, HQ JFNZ, Mr Geoff Sloper, CIS Branch, Porirua and Major Dean Rennie, Army GS, Trentham each won a $30 voucher.

A special thanks to Mike McLeod (Mac) at Maidstone Yamaha Motorcycles, Upper Hutt for sponsoring the vouchers.

Feedback on the event was positive. Colonel Phil Collett whose son Matthew attended said, “Many thanks for organising this activity. Mathew enjoyed it, and feels that he has improved his bike riding skills. I think it was a great initiative, and am thankful for any training that will improve his chances of survival on his bike.”

Major Malcolm Ayers, Director Equipment Procurement,

Army Logistics, also agreed it was a great learning experience. “Thanks for your efforts. It’s the same story when attending revision training — it’s not until after the event that you realise what you either had forgotten or didn’t know in the first place.”

I would like to thank BRIG Gawn, HQ TRSB, Greg Thomas and his team, Upper Hutt City Council, NZ Police, NZTA, ACC and Road Safe Limited. Many thanks to my helpers WO1 Rik Moore, Staff Sergeant Noel Kahui and Corporal Bryon Berry in ensuring this event ran smoothly.

DEFENCE MOTORCYCLISTS RENEW THEIR

road saFety skills

Motorcyclists learn new safety skills at Trentham.

oFFicial oF the yearCaptain Zac Prendergast, from Army General Staff, HQ NZDF won the ‘Official of the Year’ at the Wellington Sports Awards on 3 June. The award recognises the contribution Zac has made to cycling over the years. Other award winners included Ricky Herbert, the Wellington Phoenix and a number of other high profile sports people through the greater Wellington region.

armyPeoPLe23Issue 410 | 15 june 2010

Lieutenant Colonels Angie Fitzsimons and Toni Duffield completed the 100km Oxfam Trailwalk in Taupo on the weekend 10–11 April. Their team, the “Unlikely Lasses”, consisted of the two Army Officers and two civilian nurses from Hutt Hospital, one of whom, Sue Morgan, is an ex-Army nurse who served at Waiouru. A team of five support crew proved essential to the team’s success.

“We entered the walk because it combined a physically

challenging event with a good cause,” they said. The team raised almost $4000 in support of Oxfam and they would like to thank all those who made donations, attended the movie night at the Lighthouse in Petone or purchased sauces, biscuits or sausage rolls.

Training involved getting to know most of Wellington and its inevitable hills. The team’s final training walk took 14 1/2 hours, starting in Island Bay and finishing at Porirua. On the big

day their hours of training paid off, the wear and tear on their

feet was minimal and both of the Army officers were virtually

blister free at the end of the event. Both LTCOL Fitzsimons and

LTCOL Duffield said they would recommend the Trailwalker to

others in the Army because it is a great team event, a good test

of fitness and as an added bonus, the scenery around Taupo is

spectacular.

oXFam traILwaLKers

nomS to:

wo1 fenton - Northern

SSgt Parry - Central

Sherry Peck - Southern

Players, Coachs and Managers for both Men’s and Women’s Teams required

PLay @ tHe 2010 army FootbaLL regIonaLs2-6 AUG 10 @ Trentham

from left, Shelley Gill, LTCoLs angie fitzsimmons and Toni Duffield, and Sue Morgan.

24armysPortIssue 410 | 15 june 2010

looK after your SoldierS. KeeP an eye on your mateS.

on duty or off duty, on oPerationS or

in traininG, KeeP the team toGether.

we all Go out… we all Come baCK.

SURVIVAL DRILLS‘Maintaining Capability and Force Protection’

SURVIVAL DRILLSSURVIVAL DRILLS‘Maintaining Capability and Force Protection’

arMy Driver eDuCaTion

SURVIVE

SPeaK uP and liVe.Shut uP and die.

by Captain Scott McintyreFive hundred people wheeled or ran over the 42 Traverse (T42) in an inaugural off-road event on 1 May.

The T42 is based around the famous and iconic 42 Traverse track, a rough historic logging track through the Tongariro Forest, often claimed to be the best one-day mountain bike (MTB) track in the country. It starts just north of the Whakapapa turnoff on State Highway 47 and goes through to Owhango.

The T42 event had four options: 47km mountain bike, 42km off-road marathon run, 24km off-road adventure run and a 6.5km off-road run / walk. It’s a great event if you want to get into off-road running or a longer MTB ride. Check out www.t42.co.nz or www.coolrunning.co.nz for more info.

The 47k MTB and 42km marathon followed the 42 Traverse track, while the 24 and 6.5km run both started and finished at the Owhango Domain. Hayden Kana, Adrienne Hannan and I entered this new event, with Hayden and Adrienne running the 42km off-road marathon. I had planned to do the 42km run, but a still-broken foot from the Tarawera 100km ultramarathon had me strapping on a pair of wheels instead of shoes for my first MTB event.

The MTB event started on a private Landcorp farm to the south west of the start of the 42 Traverse track. I managed to get in the front quarter of the pack of 250 or so riders before the start, with the aim of not being passed by the lead runners later down the track. At ‘Go’, we squeezed through a farm gate and splashed through some green-looking mud in a paddock now devoid of cows before a short sprint across farmland. After a quick climb up onto State Highway 47, the route followed the tarseal for 700–800m before we took a left hand turn into Kapoors Rd.

This flat, fast gravel road took us 6km to the start of the 42 Traverse track proper. The track is a net downhill (see race profile) with a few technical bits, a handful of short river crossings, patches of incredibly slippery papa clay (also known as ghost rock) and some deep mud-filled ruts. Most of the slippery ghost rock seemed to be placed just round a sharp bend after a fast bit of downhill. This led to some interesting moments of simultaneous grabs at brake levers, punching down through the gears, locking the front shocks and keeping the RPM up to grind up and over whatever your front wheel was heading towards while your back wheel did its best to become your front wheel.

And this was usually while trying not to ride over/into another rider as they either fell off or stopped just in front of you. Not bad for testing your multi-tasking abilities …

Most of the uphills were long, grinding, thigh-burning climbs out of creeks, but the reward of blasting downhill usually made up for the hurt. I quickly realised that no matter how fast you can run, powering through 50km/hr on a downhill gravel track on a mountain bike is surely a better way to travel. This was reflected in the faces of the leading 24km runners when the two events merged onto the same track as we kindly showered them in gravel as we sped past.

After being told by at least three marshals that their hill was the last uphill, it wasn’t surprising to find another long, grinding

uphill stretch just before the finish. And it was slow enough for some runners to catch the bikers and prove that runners can hill climb faster than 8km/hr. Their smiles faded into jealous mutterings as we bikers crested the hill and quickly sped away through the last bit of fast single track and down the finish chute. A rider I’d started near to had ridden with me for the last hour, and Malcolm and I decided to sprint for the line, almost running out of room at the end of the chute due to our mud-clogged brakes.

We finished in two hours 44 minutes, with the first biker home in one hour 47 minutes, and the lead 42km runner taking just over three hours.

sPLasHIng and sLIdIng tHrougH tHe CentraL PLateau

aFter beIng toLd by at Least tHree marsHaLs tHat tHeIr HILL was tHe Last uPHILL, It wasn’t surPrIsIng to FInd anotHer Long, grIndIng uPHILL stretCH just beFore tHe FInIsH.

10 20 30 km

400

600

m

Participants gather in the mud Scott Mcintyre manages a smile.

Cresting one (of many) hills.

The finish line!

26armysPortIssue 410 | 15 june 2010

soFtball’s new patronFormer Army softball representative, Mr Des Hammond is Army softball’s new patron.

Des enlisted into the Regular Force Cadet School in the New Zealand Army in 1964. He quickly found his way into the cadet softball team, which also had long time Army softball representative, Roy Seaman. The two cadets formed a strong pitcher/catcher combination, with Des doing the pitching and Roy the catching. Their coach was Army softball legend Alan Shirley, who was a Royal New Zealand Signals Sergeant posted to the Regular Force Cadet School.

Following graduation from the Cadet School, Des was posted to 3 Field Workshop in Burnham as a RNZEME craftsman. It was in Burnham in the late 1960s, that Des joined the Kaiapoi Club. A year or two later, Des encouraged fellow Army softball representative, Reg Bennett (2/1 RNZIR), to join his team.

Following his service career, Des was instrumental in helping the pioneer figure of Army Softball, Mr Maurie Bull and long time softball representative Tommy Keong in organising the very first Army Softball reunion in 1995 in Palmerston North. Due to the success of the first reunion, a second was held two years later in the same location.

Queens Birthday weekend signalled a major event for Kiwi marksmen when the New Zealand Army Combat Shooting Team (NZACST) pitted their skills against the New Zealand Service Rifle Team (NZSRT)

The competition was won by the NZACST.Ten members of the NZACST competed against 10 members

of the NZSRT. The matches were individual with all competitors’ scores adding up to produce the combined result to see who the winning team was.

The two matches that were used as the basis for the competition were both from the British Competition Shooting Pam.

Match 8 (The Army Hundred Cup) is a shoot that encompasses precision shooting back to 300m. It also includes a physical rundown and shoot from the 300m to 100m. Match Highest Possible Score (HPS) is 250. This match was shot twice over the weekend.

The International Service Rifle Team Match. This match is very similar to match 8 in its component serials, the only exception being the addition of serials at the 500m and the run down being 500m to 100m. This match was shot once over the weekend. HPS 300.

The competition was conducted in good spirits between both teams and it was good to see the teams mingling at every opportunity. The young Army personnel made the most of the opportunity to learn some new techniques from the older NZSRT members.

The night of 5 June saw the NZACST host the NZSRT in the Waiouru mess. This was a great function and further displayed Army culture to the NZSRA and also showed the junior ranks of the Army Team something to aspire to. A very successful weekend won by the NZACST. The intent is to continue this competition annually from now on.

resultsmatch 8 (5 june first time through)winner: ssgt mitchell, nZacst – 233 ptsteam scores: nZacst – 2167, nZsrt 1608match 8 (5 june first time through)winner: ssgt muschamp, nZacst – 220 ptsteam scores: nZacst – 2040, nZsrt 1714international service rifle match (6 june)winner: ssgt mitchell, nZacst – 217ptsteam scores: nZacst – 1966, nZsrt 1440overall winner for the competitionindividual: ssgt mitchell, nZacstteam: nZacst – 6173 pts, nZsrt 4762

nZsra history:The New Zealand Service Rifle Association is a civilian organisation formed in 1997 by merging the Wellington Service Rifle Association and the Auckland Military Arms Society.

The NZSRA is independent of the National Rifle Association, which has its own membership and charter.

The NZSRA holds its own competitions and also selects a team from its members to represent New Zealand in service rifle competitions around the world.

The NZSRA promotes the safe use of military style firearms and the members of Service Rifle Team use a variety of 5.56mm AR15 and Sig 550 rifles.

nZacst vs nZsrt historyThis is the second meeting between the two teams. The first was in 2008, once again prior to Central Skill at Arms Meeting.

The competition was put together by Major Dan Wildy of the NZACST and David Von Elling, the then president of the NZSRA.

The aim of the competition was to expose the NZACST to a competition prior to CENTSAM.

This competition also provides a forum for discussion on shooting techniques and current practice around the world. As the NZSRT competes around the world, its members are very knowledgeable about shooting. Their experience helps out the members of the NZACST.

This competition also allows Army to raise its profile among members of the community who have a passion for shooting. As we host them in Waiouru Camp, they get exposed to some aspects of military life and leave with a good impression of our people and skills.

The first competition was won by the NZACST.

army toP sHots In aCtIon

armysPort27Issue 410 | 15 june 2010

PrIvate james HILL, 1 rnZIr, ComPLetes HIs CHaLLenge beFore tHe women begIn tHeIr KaraKIa at tHe royaL new ZeaLand army medICaL CorPs banner Parade at LInton CamP, attended by HrH tHe duKe oF gLouCester.(see Insert Page 13) tHe duKe Is aCComPanIed Here by staFF sergeant mIKe te Hau. PHoto: aC Laura rIdLey.