NEWS IR FORCE · 2007-04-29 · 1 afn80 april 07 visit our website: 80 apr 0 7 air force royal new zealand air force news three services as one force, being the best in everything

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AFN80 APRIL 07 www.airforce.mil.nz

V I S I T O U R W E B S I T E : W W W . A I R F O R C E . M I L . N Z

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>> NORTHERN KIWI>> AUCKLAND OPEN DAY >> C-130 UPGRADE REPORT


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AIR FORCE CELEBRATES 70THANNIVERSARYThe RNZAF turned 70 on 01 April 2007. Following tradition, various receptions, parades and memorial services were held at RNZAF bases and in Wellington.

In Wellington the Chief of Air Force and RNZAF personnel from around the region hosted a reception at Te Papa for approximately 200 guests to celebrate the anniversary. The centrepiece of the celebration was a ceremony at dusk in the Te Papa forecourt lead by the RNZAF Maori Cultural Group with a karakia. The Central Band of the Royal New Zealand Air Force together with a guard from RNZAF Base Ohakea enthralled the audience with a Beat Retreat ceremony in an inspiring setting. The bugle was sounded and pipes played, then the guard marched off to rousing music while warriors covered the departure.

On Sunday 01 April, the actual anniversary date, an impressive crowd of currently serving personnel and those who have served in the past gathered for a moving memorial service held at Old St Pauls Church where colours and standards were paraded, and the Central Band again performed.

From left: Mrs Dianne Lintott, CAF AVM Graeme Lintott, GPCAPT Moore, Mrs Sue Chentworth, socialising after the ceremony.

LEFT: W/O George Mana leads the Maori Cultural Group in opening the ceremony.FAR LEFT: Lone piper SGT Murray Mansfield. OH

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Editorial contributions and letters to the editor are welcome. All contributions may be sent direct to Air Force News and do not need to be forwarded through normal command chains. Letters are to be signed with the writer’s name, rank and unit although, unless requested otherwise, only the rank and geographical location of the writer will be published. The editorial staff reserves the right to abridge letters. Anonymous, offensive or abusive letters will not be published. Opinions expressed in Air Force News are not necessarily those of the RNZAF or NZDF. Nothing in NEWS should be taken as overriding any Defence regulations. Readers should refer to the relevant Service publication before acting on any information given in this periodical. No item is to be reproduced, in part or whole, without the specific permission of the editor.

OUR MISSION:To carry out military air operations to advance New Zealand’s security interests, with professionalism,

integrity and teamwork.

OUR VISION:We will be an Air Force that is the best in all we do.He Tauarangi matou ko te pai rawa atu i to matou

mahi katoa.

The official journal and forum of the Royal New Zealand Air Force established for the information,

education and enjoyment of its personnel and other people interested in RNZAF and associated matters.

NZDF HQ Wellington New Zealand

Telephone: (04) 496 0289 Fax:(04) 496 0290

Editorial authority: Ian Brunton

Published by: NZDF Public Relations Unit

APRIL 2007, ISSUE 80

[email protected] Design and Layout: Duncan Allan

[email protected] Editor: Grant Carr

PO Box 61 Palmerston North

Printed by: Keeling and Mundy LimitedProofreader: Katrina Randerson

37 SPORT NZDF Sports Awards, Relay for life, Stroke ‘n’ stride.

FEATURES4 BOEING 757 UPGRADE B757 arrives in Kansas, USA

5 W/O OF THE AIR FORCE Military diplomacy

6 THAT ‘DREAM’ POSTING Your career path

7 PERS CORNER Pay progression

8 BASE AUCKLAND Putting on a show

12 ACCOLADES FOR CIS Base Ohakea CIS

13 NEW WINGS GRADUATES Six of the best

14 C-130 UPGRADE PROJECT Avionics

16 WISEOWL In close formation

22 RUAPEHU RUMBLE Exercise Northern Kiwi

24 AFGHANISTAN COMMITMENT Minister’s report, Business as usual

29 ON TEAMWORK APDC

30 DEFENCE HOUSE PM opens energy efficient building

31 CADET FORCES Training and management

32 COMBAT CHALLENGE Air Force Firefighters

39 ROMANCE OF FLIGHT A special wedding

40 ANZAC DAY RESCUE ANZAC tale

REGULARS

Going Bonkers In Honkers? Base Auckland Base band visits the land of the dragon to celebrate the year of the pig. Story and photos - page 42.

Exercise Wiseowl is a Royal New Zealand Air Force exercise which teaches trainee pilots how to operate a location remote from the comforts and conveniences of RNZAF Base Ohakea. Photographer: CPL Nick Clarke.

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FRONT COVER: FLTLT Adam Houston prepares to compete in the New Zealand World helicopter Championships - see story page 21.

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FLTLT Michele Thomson, sword in hand, leads out the guard from Ohakea Air Force Base as the Royal New Zealand Air Force Central Band performs in the background. The Beat the Retreat ceremony was held on 29 March at the Museum of New Zealand (Te Papa Tongarewa) as part of the Air Force 70th Anniversary celebrations.


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MILITARY DIPLOMACY – BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS

W/O Of The Air Force Keith Gell

When first questioned on the topic of military diplomacy during my early tenure as WOAF, my first thought was the cocktail circuit. However after being involved in some high ranking visits at both the Chief and Warrant Officer level, I soon got to realise that it is more than pink gins and finger food. Military diplomacy in fact is part of our day to day business in building relationships. In fact it is happening at all levels throughout the RNZAF and NZDF. For example W/O Darren Bosher hosted an NDT (Non Destructive Testing) conference at the end of last year. This involved countries from Canada, Australia and Great Britain. Yes the focus was on NDT, however I have no doubt that relationships were enhanced and friendships were made. I guarantee also that a network is now in place where these folk can talk more freely in an effort of getting business done. There are many other examples and I now appreciate that military diplomacy is vital for us as a small organisation. It allows us to bench-mark, talk freely, enhance our relationships and do some one-on-one business with other overseas militaries. Over the past twelve months I have had the pleasure of meeting with my Military counterparts from overseas. These have included the US Marine Corps, US Army, US Air Force, RAF, RAAF, Australian Army and the Singapore Air Force. With the exception of the RAF, all these folk have visited our Air Force here in New Zealand. The purpose of these visits was about military diplomacy at the Warrant Officer level. Of great importance for me was the need for them to understand who we are as an Air Force, Defence Force and country. What we have in regard to capability can be found on any web site or Janes encyclopaedia, it’s the people part of our Air Force that they need to see. To view this one has to get right into the nooks and crannies of an organisation. It is at this level that one see’s our core

values at work, this through how we act and behave as a people. This I must say we achieved with our visitors. Not only did they view us in the work place, but also socially, this again it is all about understanding us as a people and us as an Air Force. Along with viewing and getting a feel of the place, these visits are also opportunities to discuss issues and do some business, and yes there are similarities in issues, and yes a high level of business was achieved. For example, recruiting from a tight market for specific trades is also a problem for our allied friends as it is for us. Working with ever changing budgets is also a challenge for them as it is for us. However the biggest talking point with all our visitors has been around leadership, in particular leadership at the Junior Officer, NCO and SNCO level. All have made the comment that technology is driving change when it comes to leadership. Those traditional hierarchies we have known since Adam was a cowboy are now being challenged. We have been fortunate that we have recently reviewed our NCO leadership training. We have also had the opportunity to bench-mark this with other allied nations. Feedback from two recently returned SNCOs from overseas academies confirms we are on the right track. The point here is that none of this bench-marking could have been achieved without some form of military diplomacy first taking place. Military diplomacy is important for us as a small operator. It enhances our reputation, it strengthens relationships, and it provides a means of getting business done. One of the Chiefs key principles during his tenure is about relationships and this we are doing well on the international front. What we need to keep reminding ourselves of is that we need to do it more often internally within the Air Force and across the Defence Force. Finally, a big thanks for those involved with our recent visitors both at the Chief level and Warrant Officer level. The impact made cannot be underestimated and I have no doubt we will bear some fruit as a result.

AIR FORCE BOEING 757 BEGINS UPGRADEThe first of two Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) Boeing 757 aircraft arrived in the United States on Sunday 11 March for an eight month Modification Programme at Mobile Aerospace Engineering in Mobile, Alabama, and Boeing Integrated Defence Systems in Wichita, Kansas.

The programme includes full airframe and avionics modifications to both RNZAF B757s, including the installation of a new forward cargo door and rear air stairs.

The modified 757 will provide the RNZAF with the ability to rapidly change the role of the aircraft to any given task, converting from a standard passenger configuration to a combination freight/passenger, full freight, Aero Medical Evacuation (AME) and VIP set up.

The modified 757 is a significant capability increase for the RNZAF, said Air Component Commander, AIR CDRE Peter Stockwell.

‘Yes, there will be a period where both 757s will be out of the country undergoing the modification upgrade. We have known about this for sometime, and contingency planning has occurred. We have cooperative airlift agreements with other air forces and potential charter and lease options available should an

The B757 logbook is handed over from the delivery captain, SQNLDR Brendan Clarke to Mr Joseph Ng, President MAE. The ceremony is observed by Mr Adrian Lim, MAE Project Manager and WGCDR Mark Brunton, MoD Project Manager.

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unplanned contingency or emergency arise. The benefits of the upgrade far outweigh the disruption caused by having the aircraft out of service for a period,’ he said.

The $221 million acquisition and modification project commenced in May

2003 when the RNZAF replaced its aging Boeing 727 aircraft.

The first aircraft is expected to return in December 2007 with both modified 757 aircraft expected to be fully operational and available from early 2008.

Mr Dave McFarlane, Facilities Project Officer in the Facilities Management Flight at Woodbourne, was awarded the Queen’s Service Medal (QSM) in the New Year’s honours awards for his long service and good work in the Volunteer Fire Service. He will be attending the investiture ceremony at Government House for the presentation of his medal.

Mr Dave McFarlane is a long-standing Defence employee who hides his light under a bushel, but his fellow workmates and friends say recognition of his service was well deserved.

QSM FOR VOLUNTEER

The Air Force will host an annual NZDF conference at Base Ohakea over 26-27 April on the Pan-NZDF Technical Services Agreement with fuel company BP.

The NZDF and senior executives from current contract holder BP get together each year to discuss fuel issues at a strategic level. The conference is being organised by NZDF Contracts Relationship Manager John Ivil.

The three Services will be represented

at senior command level and two Australian Defence Force representatives – from the Defence Materiels office and the Australian Army’s Aviation HQ – have been invited by Air to give presentations.

A primary focus of the conference will be on a report by the NZDF Fuel Working Group headed by LT CDR Wayne Burton. The conference aims to address the NZDF’s fuel policy.

OHAKEA TO HOST FUEL CONFERENCE

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CFR(B) PAY PROGRESSIONDON’T MISS OUT ON THAT ‘DREAM’ POSTINGThe DCM TeamReference: NZAP 53 Chapter 19, paras 19.58 - 60One of the advantages of the advertised vacancy system which the RNZAF operates is to give you, the individual Serviceperson, the opportunity to influence your own career path.

But, have you ever missed out on your ‘dream’ posting because you weren’t in town to lodge your application? Just because you may be absent from your parent unit for a period of time, does not mean that you need to miss out on your ‘dream’ posting as options are available to guarantee that you are considered for the job.

Currently the primary method for ensuring you don’t miss out is the RNZAF 401, ‘Application for Vacancies During Absence’. The F401 allows you to specify the Branch/Trade, rank and location of posts that you want to apply for during your absence. Once submitted to your

local Admin unit, a check of advertised positions against your F401 is undertaken each week and where a posting meets your stated preference an application will be submitted on your behalf.

In the past some individuals have failed to be considered for posts they were interested in because they had not submitted an F401 prior to their departure. It is intended that with the introduction of People Portal later this year there will no longer be a requirement to submit

an F401, as RNZAF personnel will be able to register their desired employment preferences on-line.

There are, of course, other options. Admin units can offer the option to either e-mail or post routine orders or vacancy lists on a weekly basis to those who request it; something that is specifically available under the above reference for personnel on Parental Leave. Exercising this option allows you to identify vacancies that meet your preferences or that your F401 may not cover. However, if you select this option, you should note that it becomes your responsibility to ensure that you receive the vacancy list/s and submit applications as appropriate.

So if you are away from your unit for an extended length of time, the advice from DCM is to submit an F401 to ensure that we know about your preferences and can thereby ensure that you are not disadvantaged when your ‘dream’ posting is advertised.

In the past some individuals have failed

to be considered for posts they were

interested in because they had not submitted an F401 prior to their

departure.

EQUITY TRAINING’S POSITIVE DIFFERENCEIf you are an Anti Harassment Adviser (AHA) in the New Zealand Defence Force you may have met Shayne Mathieson, of Top Drawer Consultants. Shayne has developed and delivered equity training courses in the NZDF for more than a decade. Courses have included AHA Induction, AHA Mediation, AHA Investigator training, EEO Advisory Officer training, Train-the-trainer and the 0800 Helpline. Shayne’s significant contribution was recently acknowledged by CDF with a commendation on 28 February.

As part of the presentation CDF highlighted the importance in which the NZDF regarded equity, and the priority it placed on championing equity principles and eliminating harassment and discrimination. The quality of training Shayne has provided since 1996 has contributed to much of the success of the equity support network. This

has led to a positive change in attitudes towards discrimination and harassment within Defence.

Shayne has delivered more than 50 NZDF AHA courses, and trained over 600 personnel in equity matters. Trainees have consistently rated as excellent Shayne’s presentation style, equity knowledge and ability to relate to groups and individuals. This is a reflection of the skill and commitment Shayne has to maintaining quality training and excellence. More recently Shayne has been working closely with equity personnel and Service training groups to develop equity

LT GEN Jerry Mateparae presents Ms Shayne Mathieson with her commendation for her ‘significant contribution.’

modules for all NZDF promotional courses. The outcome of this initiative is the Train-the-trainer courses being held this month. This training will ensure a

national consistency, high quality equity training and provide training personnel with the tools and confidence to deliver the modules.

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CAF has recently approved a new administrative procedure for determining Group B CFR pay progression that is fair and equitable, removes the direct linkage to a CFR contemporary, reduces administrative effort, and remains within the provisions of extant DFOs and Pay Determinations. The current method for determining Group B CFR rates of pay is based in the ‘linkage’ of the CFR Officer to a former trade contemporary e.g. if the CFR

officer was a CPL Avionics Technician with three years seniority at the time of commissioning, s/he would be ‘linked’, to a contemporary of equal status. The purpose of this system is to ensure that the CFR officer rate of pay retains the two step pay differential above what their A&A rate of pay would have been, had they not been commissioned. What this also means is that the CFR officers pay progression is directly impacted by the progression and performance of the CFR contemporary. Adverse aspects of this linkage, which has resulted in a stalling of pay progression for some CFR officers,

has included a lack of performance by the CFR contemporary, a lack of motivation by the same to seek promotion, and the taking of leave without pay. Administrative complications which have been shown to also adversely impact pay progression include the release, rebranching and remustering of the contemporary. For these reasons it was recommended that the procedures for administering Group B CFR pay progression move away from the linkage to a former trade contemporary.

In future, Group B CFR pay progression will be statistically derived. Utilising data which reflects the general shift in A&A

promotion rates for relative non-tech, tech and air crew trade groups over a five year period, pay progression will be based on the 75th percentile of the A&A trade group promotion rate e.g. if the promotion rate of a non-tech CPL is 5 years, the 75th percentile for determining pay progression is 3 years, 9 months. Progression rate data will be reviewed and adjusted if necessary, every two years. Full detail of these changes, including authority to back date changes to 1 Jan 2007, will be promulgated in a soon to be issued AFO(T).

This column for Air Force News is designed to give you an ongoing quick reference of RNZAF uniformed personnel strength and recruitment targets.1 Jul 06 actual = 28041 Jul 07 original target = 28291 Jul 07 forecast = 2864Regular Force attrition rate (12-months to 1 Feb 07) = 8.24%UK Recruitment Project71 out of 150 personnel originally intended have been recruited.84 people are still registered with the project, 35 of whom will be here by 1 Jul 07.Other Skilled Recruits6 out of 22 personnel planned have been enlisted, with the remainder already identified but yet to enlist.Direct Entry and CFR Recruiting (indicative figures) - see columns:Note: The tables are indicative only for future courses. Final IOTC numbers will be based on the outcome of the RNZAF Officers and NCO Aircrew Selection Board (OASB). Officer specialisations showing a tick, and any other skilled applicants, will be considered on a case-by-case basis.The point of contact for these statistics is Mr Jason Trenberth (Workforce Planning Analyst, Air Staff).

Forecast IOTC Training Numbers Specialisation 07/1 IOTC 07/2 IOTC Actual TargetRUS NAV RUS PILOT RUS ENGR 2RUS SUP RUS PYSCH ADMINO ASYO (CFR) 1CHAP 3CISO 2DOCTOR 1EDUC 3 1LEGAL MEDADMIN (CFR) PFO PSYCH 1 SEC 1WORKS 1 1ENGR 7 3SUP 5 NAV 2 2PILOT 11 10AIRENGO (CFR) 1AEO (CFR) 2 2ALMOFF 1HCMOFF PARA

Total 32 31

Recruit Course Numbers 07/1 07/2 07/3

Recruit Recruit Recruit

Jan-07 May-07 Sep 07

Trade Actual Target Target

ADMIN 10

ASYGD 8

AVRFLR 8

CIS 8

FIRE 6

MEDICAL 3 2

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PHYSICAL 4

SUPPLY 11 12 8

AIRCRAFT 14 12 8

ARMAMENT 6

AVIONICS 15 8 6

COMPOSITES 2

GSE

MACHINE 2

METAL 2

S&S 6

AEOP 3 4

FSTWD 2

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PERSONNEL STATS AT A GLANCE

The sky over RNZAF Base Auckland was abuzz with aircraft on Saturday 4 March for yet another of the Base’s successful biennial open days.

A crowd of over 25,000 Auckland spectators were both delighted and amazed by aerial displays, aerobatics and demonstrations as dozens of aircraft put on a show to be remembered.

In near perfect weather the aerial highlights included a dramatic aerobatic display by the Air Force’s Red Checkers team, two visiting F-111 aircraft from the RAAF performing after burner runs, and a Warbirds display featuring RNZAF vintage aircraft.

The Air Force’s Kiwi Blue parachute team

put on a crowd pleasing smoking descent and delighted onlookers, especially the young, when they landed near the spectators and handed out stickers.

A crowd favourite was the ‘Rolling Thunder’ display incorporating the Air Force’s C-130 Hercules, B757 and P-3K Orion aircraft.

There was also a full range of static displays showcasing the Air Force’s many trades and specialisations. The Air Force’s Base open days are always a great opportunity for potential recruits and aviation enthusiasts to get an up close look at just what the Air Force is all about. And of course Air Force personnel were on

hand to inform and guide people as they wandered from display to display.

‘The open day provides an Air Force experience for people who may not fully understand what we do and what we are about, said Air Force public relations manager SQNLDR Glenn Davis.

Chief of Air Force AVM Graham Lintott praised Base Auckland personnel for organising the successful open day. ‘The success of the open day came down to the efforts and commitment of the many Base Auckland personnel involved in its organisation,’ he said.

Next year’s open day will be at Base Ohakea.

ABOVE AND BELOW: Static technology displays in the No.40 Squadron hangar had personnel on hand to explain the workings.

ABOVE: Jared Fretton, 13yrs, of Alfriston, and his Dad play games on the Recruiting display computers.

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GO GIRLS: Renee Goodsell and Courtney May, the winners of NZ Girl competition pose in front of the Iroquois after their flight. Air Force recruiting has an ongoing relationship with the NZGirl website (NZ Girl.co.nz).

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SMOKIN’: Kiwi Blue, the RNZAF Parachute Display Team put on a show for the crowd.

Brothers Jeremy (4.5yrs), and Sherwin (9yrs) Hand of Mt Roskill play at the controls of the Huey.

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TOP: The B757 casts a huge shadow.

MIDDLE: A RAAF F-111 Fighter Bomber performing an afterburn run.

LEFT AND BELOW LEFT: Winner of the RNZAF Special Ops competition Mr Steve Bayley of Christchurch undergoes a tandem parachute jump with members of the Kiwi Blue team.

BELOW: Petra Brinkman, 6yrs, of Herald Island flies the Orion.

RIGHT: A mother tries out a Steyr rifle.

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ABOVE: The Kiwi Rolling Thunder fly past closes the air display for the RNZAF aircraft.LEFT:Orion NZ4205 drops a MADD pack (SAR survival pack) and flies a display for the crowd.BELOW: No. 6 Squadron Seaprite helicopters in formation.

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SIX NEW WINGS GRADUATESProudly displaying the new brevets L-R: FGOFF Nelson, FGOFF Smith, PLTOFF Brock, PLTOFF Estall and FGOFF Netzler.

After more than a year of training six pilots, including a pilot from the Navy – SLT Trotter, PLTOFF Estall, PLTOFF Brock, FGOFF Netzler, FGOFF Smith and FGOFF Nelson - realised their dream of becoming a Royal New Zealand Air Force pilot with the award of their Wings brevets at a Base Ohakea ceremony on 22 March.

RNZAF pilot graduation ceremonies are held twice per year and represent the culmination of 14 months of study and more than 200 hours of flying time by student pilots.

ACC AIR CDRE Peter Stockwell presented the awards and His Excellency, The Governor General, Anand Satyanand reviewed the parade.

Riverton born FGOFF Smith said graduating allowed him to undertake the final phase of advanced pilot training before he could fly the RNZAF Orion, Hercules or Iroquois helicopter.

‘I hope to fly the P-3K Orion. Carrying out low level tactical flying in such a large aircraft is a unique challenge.’

The most difficult part of the pilot training course was the study, he said.

‘The study is pretty full on and a few

mates dropped out before completing the course. Fortunately I managed to get through and the feeling of passing each stage, whether it be formation flying or tactical flying, is extremely satisfying.’

Remuera’s FGOFF Nelson says he’d like to move onto No.5 Squadron. ‘I’d very much like to move into No.5 Squadron to fly the P-3K Orion. I like the idea of crewed operations, the maritime patrol

and rescue role and the aircraft itself.’The most difficult part of the pilot

training course was the navigation component, he said.

‘Navigation was challenging but it was also the most satisfying to overcome. The satisfaction of applying all of the knowledge and skills learned on the course and the sheer exhilaration of low level flying at speeds of 350 kmph is amazing..’

RNZN SLT Trotter with his ceremonial sword.

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Presentation of Gary Thomas Memorial Trophy to CIS Section Ohakea for Excellence in CISEX. Presenting the trophy is Glenis Thomas, received by FLTOFF Trish O’Neil while LTCOL Paul Dragicevich and the Ohakea CIS team look on.

ACCOLADES FOR OHAKEA CIS SECTIONOn Wednesday 14 March Commander Joint Forces conducted the inaugural presentation of the Gary Thomas Memorial Trophy to CIS Section Ohakea. The trophy is awarded to the unit that obtains the highest percentage of success in CISEX serials. The new trophy, the ‘Gary Thomas CISEX Trophy’ will be presented annually to the most successful NZ CIS unit participating in the AS/NZ CISEX Programme. The presentation took place near the RNZAF Base Ohakea Communications Centre.

Gary Thomas joined the NZDF as a Signaller in the New Zealand Army before transferring to the Air Force as a Telecommunications Operator in the mid 1970s. His final posting was to the Central Network Control Centre, New Zealand (CNCC NZ) at HQNZDF. It was here that Gary identified a need for the three Services to practice their communications

skills in the various modes of operation used by the NZDF. This programme was originally called the Joint Communications Exercise (JCOMMEX) programme. The programme was expanded with the addition of Australian Defence Force (ADF) units. With the modernisation of communications systems the programme was changed to the Communications

Information Systems Exercise (CISEX) programme. Prior to retirement from the RNZAF Gary managed the CISEX programme ensuring that the NZDF communications skills were maintained. Sadly, Gary passed away in 2002 , but his family has given permission to attach his name to the trophy.

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SUCCESSFUL PACIFIC SURVEILLANCEAn Air Force Orion completed a successful week of Pacific surveillance at the end of March monitoring the waters between Samoa and the Cook Islands for illegal fishing vessels.

The multi-agency exercise, involving New Zealand, Australia, Samoa, Cook Islands, the Forum Fisheries Agency and the United States Coast Guard aims to catch and deter people from illegal fishing in Pacific countries’ exclusive economic zones.

No.5 Squadron acting Commanding Officer SQNLDR Nick Olney said the aircraft’s 12 crew had completed more than 24 hours of flying time in support of the operation.

‘It was a relatively quiet operation in that all of the fishing vessels which were sighted and photographed were found to be fishing legally. What we did achieve was a visible presence which will act as a deterrent to any individuals or companies who are considering breaking the rules in

the future.’Northern Patrol is run up to 10 times per

year. It is one of many Pacific surveillance

and search and rescue roles P3-K Orions undertake throughout the year.

A P3-K Orion of the type assisting with a multi-agency Pacific surveillance operation for the last week of March.

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C-130 UPGRADE PROJECT LEAPS FORWARD In this report from Canada SQNLDR Dane Fea, C-130 Life Extension Project (LEP) OPO, updates us on progress upgrading the C-130 Hercules’ avionics.

In the C-130 world there has been, for a number of years, a growing global movement to upgrade avionics to combat increasingly unreliable systems, update systems facing obsolescence and to install systems which meet modern air traffic regulations. The New Zealand C-130 Life Extension Project (LEP) is taking a giant leap in this global movement by replacing the entire suite of avionics in one all-encompassing upgrade. In fact there is only one avionics system from the legacy aircraft which will remain in the Modified Aircraft and even that system is being updated so it can communicate across a databus with the central Flight Management System (FMS).

In addition to the FMS, the extensive cockpit upgrade includes the installation of an Electronic Flight Instrument System (EFIS), digital Engine Instrument Display System (EIDS), Digital Fuel Quantity and Gauging System (DFQGS), the addition of Traffic Collision Alert System (TCAS), the introduction of an Enhanced Ground Proximity Warning System (EGPWS), integrated navigation sensors, and fully upgraded digital internal and external communications.

Sweeping changes of this magnitude in an aircraft’s cockpit present many challenges in preparing aircrew and maintainers in the safe operation of the upgraded aircraft. One of the main challenges that many countries have faced is providing truly representative simulation training for their crews. Many upgraded C-130 fleets push this issue to one side, initially training in full motion simulators which do not represent their own cockpit configurations, followed by extensive training in their actual aircraft. Extensive use of the actual aircraft for training introduces the risk of reduced aircraft availability for operational tasking.

To mitigate this risk a costed option for a procedural trainer was included in the Best and Final Offer for the LEP contract. Once L-3 Spar Aerospace was selected as the Prime Contractor the PTT costed option was able to be exercised. The originally proposed PTT (pictured) consisted of a small number of touch screens attached to a wireframe. Subsequent negotiations have advanced the device to a hybrid trainer – half way between a procedural trainer and a Fixed Training Device. When referring to the device, it is not unusual to hear people use the phrase ‘Part Task Trainer on steroids’. Spar has subcontracted the design and manufacture of this hybrid device to CAE in Montreal.

The final PTT design, based on CAE’s Simfinity ™ architecture, is built around touch screen technology with significant enhancements added, including fully working control yoke, throttles, condition levers and rudder pedals. The cockpit is enclosed in a shell similar to the real aircraft and caters for pilot and flight engineer training – the device does not provide a navigator station. Outside of the cockpit shell are three large rear projection screens which, coupled with industrial projectors, provide advanced visuals powered by CAE’s Medallion-S ™ software.

The two visual databases included with the PTT are Vancouver in Canada and Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada, USA. These two databases provide a variety of approaches and airfield environs for aircrew training. The PTT visuals not only cater for varying locations, but also provide for excellent day/night scenarios and a variety of weather simulations. The Simfinity hardware and software will provide for all emergencies in the Modified Aircraft’s updated Flight Manual. The PTT will not only allow aircrew to gain

familiarity with the aircraft systems, but will also cater for maintenance training in engine running procedures.

The NZ Resident Project Team (NZRPT) visited CAE Montreal in late January 2007 and was impressed with the progress CAE has made with the device. There are still a number of software and hardware changes that will be made before CAE hosts the final Critical Design Review (CDR) in April this year. The final design details presented at the CDR will enable the RNZAF to fine

tune their future plans for flight crew and maintenance training courses for the modified C-130s.

The RNZAF has indicated that future plans for flight crew and maintenance training for the Modified C-130s will involve a combination of PTT training, training in a non-representative full motion simulator, and training on the actual aircraft. The exact extent of each phase of training will be more accurately determined after the PTT CDR. The

PTT will provide the planned training in a dedicated facility based at RNZAF Base Auckland in the vicinity of No. 40 Squadron for easy access by aircrew and maintainers alike. Negotiations are still underway to determine if the PTT will also be used at Spar Aerospace in Edmonton for initial Aircrew and Maintainer ground training.

The accompanying photos indicate that the PTT has progressed a considerable way from the design phase. Once fully

completed, this device will provide the RNZAF with a valuable tool for bridging the gap between non-representative full motion simulation and the Modified C-130 Aircraft. While the PTT should not be considered a simulator – it is designed for procedural training only – the physical flight controls incorporated coupled with the realistic visuals will provide a level of immersive training in this hybrid device rarely experienced in a procedural trainer.

TOP LEFT: SQNLDR Dane Fea and SQNLDR Simon Williams assess the PTT at CAE’s facilities in Montreal.BELOW LEFT: The advanced visuals are projected outside the replicated cockpit shell.TOP RIGHT: The touch screen Instructor Operator Station is used to input emergencies and control scenarios executed in the PTT.RIGHT: The originally proposed Part Task Trainer.BOTTOM: C-130 LEP Cockpit Mockup at L-3 Spar Aerospace in Edmonton.

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ABOVE: C-130 LEP Cockpit Mockup at L-3 Spar Aerospace in Edmonton. LEFT: SQNLDR Dane Fea and SQNLDR Simon Williams assess the PTT at CAE’s facilities in Montreal.BELOW LEFT: The advanced visuals are projected outside the replicated cockpit shell.BELOW: The originally proposed Part Task Trainer. BELOW RIGHT: The touch screen Instructor Operator Station is used to input emergencies and control scenarios executed in the PTT.

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At the Air Force’s Exercise Wiseowl Air Force student pilots are introduced to the fine art of close formation flying. The CT4 Airtrainers fly within 1.5 metres of each other’s wing tips. If you spread your arms out wide you’ll find that 1.5 metres is about the distance from finger tip to finger tip. In anyone’s book that’s hair-raisingly close.

‘This was a very successful Wiseowl exercise,’ says Officer Commanding Pilot Training Squadron (PTS) SQNLDR Steve Hunt of the biannual pilot training exercise held last month at South Island town Motueka’s airfield. ‘The venue’s clear weather, uncluttered airspace and relative proximity to PTS at Base Ohakea made it ideal for the nine trainee pilots on the current Wings course,’ said SQNLDR Hunt who became OC PTS in February 2006.

By the time they reach Wiseowl each trainee pilot has about 40-50 hours of flying the Air Force’s CT4 Airtrainers under their belt. But before they are allowed anywhere near the controls of the aircraft they have had to undergo months of rigorous training starting with their Initial Officer Training Course at Base Woodbourne, Medical Training and Survival Training followed by 13 weeks of ground school.

From then on it’s their first introduction to

flying the Airtrainer up to their first solo flight through different phases of complexity and challenge, says SQNLDR Hunt. Trainees agree that Exercise Wiseowl, especially their first solo formation flight, has been a highlight of the Wings course so far. ‘It was really hard work but so rewarding. I was knackered afterwards,’ says 19 year-old Cantabrian PLTOFF Lachie Johnson of

his first solo formation flight the previous day. PLTOFF Johnson says he hopes to eventually fly helicopters – either the NH90 or the Training/Utility helicopter that will replace the Sioux.

Training in close formation flying is unique to military pilots and is not a requirement of commercial pilots. So, why does the Air Force train for such a patently risky activity? SQNLDR Hunt explains that when four or more Air Force aircraft are on an operation they will almost inevitably penetrate cloud. The aircraft then form a single speaking unit that can be tracked by Air Traffic Control as a single entity. Flying apart would make the aircraft several independent entities that would be difficult, if not impossible, for Air Traffic Control to manage. Aside from that very real practical consideration he says military pilot’s sheer professionalism, skill and pride in demonstrating close formation flying in ceremonial events, air shows and celebrations marks them clearly as a cut above the rest.

From Wiseowl the students progress to more close formation flying, medium and low level navigation and instrument flying. It culminates in a week-long flight hopping around the South Island’s numerous provincial airfields giving the students even more experience navigating in unfamiliar

IN CLOSE FORMATIONAT WISEOWL

Some comforts of home - wiring up the lighting for Wiseowl’s tent town.

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territories including exercises testing their ability to accurately arrive on target at a specified time. ‘Internationally there’s a lot of admiration for the high standards

our students achieve for the hours flown. There’s no other Wings course I’m aware of where students attain such a high standard after only 130 hours of flying,’

says SQNLDR Hunt.While Wiseowl’s obvious emphasis is

on training pilots the exercise also has two other important goals. One is the

PLTOFF Hamish Reichardt, 18.Hometown: Rotorua.

PLTOFF Nathan Barrack, 22.Hometown: Whenuapai.

PLTOFF Rob Weavers, 23.Hometown: Methven.

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PLTOFF Hamish Reichardt returns from another successful flight.The morning brief.

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CT-4 Airtrainers lined up on Motueka airfield at dawn.A Red Checkers display on the Open Day.

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regular practise that Air Force personnel get setting up a deployed camp. This was the 88th Exercise Wisowl so setting up a camp, erecting tents, establishing communications and the myriad other detailed tasks necessary for a successful deployment have been refined over the years. Most of the setup is done within a single day. And everyone involved rolls up their sleeves and gets stuck in helping out wherever they can, says SQNLDR Hunt.

The other spin off is giving the Air Force visibility in areas of New Zealand where we don’t normally operate. In other words it is a public relations exercise where ordinary provincial new Zealanders get a

PLTOFF James Steel, 23.Hometown: Christchurch.

PLTOFF Jamin Baker, 18.Hometown: Christchurch.

PLTOFF Bradley Scott, 19.Hometown: Taupiri (near Hamilton).

PLTOFF Lachie Johnston, 19.Hometown: Christchurch.

PLTOFF Peter Familton, 21.Hometown: Oamaru.

PLTOFF Tim McAlevey, 27.Hometown: Palmerston North.

chance to see their Air Force up close in action. Just ask Air Force Padre Anthony Hawes who lost count of the number of school groups he led through the camp. ‘The children are really blown away to see a real Air Force exercise in action. I emphasise the fact that this is very similar to a camp deployed to somewhere like Timor Leste or The Solomon Islands,’ he said. ‘The open day on Saturday attracted hundreds of locals and the reception held that night and attended by local dignitaries, including the Mayor, was a PR triumph,’ said PTS Instructor and Red Checkers aerobatic display team member SQNLDR Kennedy Spiers.

SQNLDR Hunt’s advice to anyone considering an aviation career is that they ‘will find there’s no more challenging and rewarding flying to be had than with the Air Force. The introduction of new and improving equipment combined with the variety of countries and environments in which you fly are unrivalled by any non-military organisations. If you are seeking a challenge and you are willing to work hard military flying will provide an enormous amount of satisfaction and reward.’

The next Exercise Wiseowl is scheduled to be held in the Wairarapa at the end of September this year.ALL PHOTOS: CPL NICK CLARKE, CPE.

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A CT-4 Airtrainer awaits its pilot.

PLTOFF Matt Ferris planning his next flight. Aeromotive at work on the CT-4.

LT Sammy Richmond gives a brief. SQNLDR Rex Brereten keeps an eye on Air Traffic.

Aerial view of the camp. Excellent food prepared by NZ Army chefs.

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COUNTER TERRORISM

EXERCISE

Police and the Air Force’s No.3 Squadron held a counter-terrorism exercise at the old Christchurch Women’s Hospital on Thursday 22 March.

The exercise, simulating a hostage rescue, saw Police team lowered onto the roof of the empty building from an Iroquois helicopter. FLTLT Adam Houston said the exercise was a good opportunity for Air Force personnel to gain experience working with Police.

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HELOS AND CREWS TO TIMOR LESTEThe NZDF is set to send up to three helicopters with 32 crew and support staff to further assist with stability operations in the troubled nation of Timor Leste.

Drawn from the Ohakea based No.3 Squadron, the RNZAF personnel and Iroquois helicopters will deploy in late May in the first rotation of what will be a 12 month deployment.

The deployment was prompted by a request from the Australian Defence Force to augment their helicopter operations in Timor Leste and provide a more robust capability.

Likely tasks for the crew include insertion and extraction of patrols, assisting with the provision of aero medical evacuation and air logistic support.

Commander Joint Forces New Zealand Rear Admiral Jack Steer says 3 Squadron are more than ready for the deployment.

‘In recent years 3 Squadron have deployed on similar operations in the Solomon Islands and Bougainville, and in 2000 worked in partnership with Australian air assets in Timor Leste.

‘We are pleased to be able to provide a further capability to assist the Government of Timor Leste as they continue to strive for stability, and this deployment is further proof of the diverse range of operations the NZDF can effectively contribute to.’

The helicopters will be transported to Timor Leste using the RNZAF C-130 Hercules and will be co-located with the Australian air assets at the Heliport in central Dili.

Also announced by the Government today was the appointment of a New Zealand Officer as the Deputy Commander of the Combined Joint Task Force in Timor Leste.

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Police ‘fast roping’ out of an Iroquois helicopter in central Christchurch.

Two No.3 Squadron helicopter crews pitted their skills against 18 top teams at the New Zealand World Helicopter Championships held at North Shore airfield over the weekend of 17-18 March. This is the first time the Championships have been held in the Southern Hemisphere.

Challenges included finding hidden objects during an 80km navigation exercise. And moving a bucket of water without spilling the contents through a slalom course.

Local boy FLTLT Adam Houston captained one of the Iroquois.

Air Force team Huey Blue, flown by FLTLT Tim Costly and crewed by FLTLT Greg Jane and SGT Ra Tahi-Martin, won the competition.

FLTLT Houston’s team came fifth.

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Between two and four No.3 Squadron Iroquois were on hand each day for one of the largest Territorial Force exercises in years – Exercise Northern Kiwi. The exercise, around the Ruapehu area in late February, involved over 800 Territorial Force and Regular Force personnel. The Air Force Hueys flew up to six hours per day and were kept ‘very busy’ says pilot FLTLT Daniel Clearwater. The Hueys flew up to Waiouru each day from their base at Ohakea.

‘The aircraft were tasked on a daily basis for a number of different jobs. We spent time conducting emplane/deplane and helicopter safety briefs for most of the exercise participants. Most of these people were then inserted or recovered from an exercise evolution

via Iroquois. The Hueys also conducted rapelling training as well as participating in an aero-medical evacuation scenario,’ said FLTLT Clearwater.

He agreed that the way the Squadron went about the exercise with the bigger capacity NH90s would have been different but exactly how remains to be seen.

TOP: An Iroquois with Mount Ruapehu in the background. RIGHT & ABOVE: Emplaning and deplaning.

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An aero-medical evacuation.

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A view from the Iroquois’ interior.

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KIWIS COMMITTED TO

AFGHANISTANA SUMMARY OF NEW ZEALAND’S COMMITMENTS BY HON PHIL GOFF, MINISTER OF DEFENCE

Provincial Reconstruction TeamFollowing the UN-mandated intervention in Afghanistan in 2001, the focus of operations broadened to reconstruction and the creation of an environment within which Afghan authorities could re-establish control and stability. A key component in this process was the establishment of provincial reconstruction teams. In 2003 the New Zealand Government approved the deployment of a PRT to Bamyan Province. New Zealand formally took command of the Bamyan PRT on 23 September 2003. This has been our greatest commitment to Afghanistan in terms of troop numbers and its value has been widely recognised by coalition partners and the Afghani population alike.

At present there are 23 PRTs operating in Afghanistan. They are designed to assist reconstruction efforts and conduct civil-military operations at a regional level and are often multi-national, inter-agency teams including military and civilian personnel. Their size, structure and role vary depending on the objectives

of contributing nations, the requirements of the region, and the level of instability within the region.

Bamyan Province is a geographically remote area, which lies in the Hindu Kush area of central Afghanistan, approximately 160km Northwest of Kabul. The province covers approximately 17,400 square kilometres and has an estimated population of 350,000. The environment is harsh and poor roads add to the isolation of the area. Altitudes in the province range between 2500m above sea level to 4500m with temperatures ranging between 40 degrees in the summer and minus 20 degrees in the winter.

The population of the province is predominantly Shia Muslim Hazara, although there are some Tajik, especially in the northern area of the province. Long periods of conflict between the local people (Hazara and Tajik), and the persecution of the Hazaras by the Taliban has left the majority of the population opposed to the Taliban and receptive to the support being provided by the New

Zealand PRT.Bamyan is an underdeveloped province.

The international reconstruction effort since the defeat of the Taliban has focused on rebuilding homes, providing basic infrastructure (such as electricity, roads and water supplies) and re-establishing agriculture and food production.

Activities undertaken by the New Zealand PRT include security and liaison patrols, supporting the Afghan Government; participating in the Governor’s security and reconstruction meetings; counselling adversaries and refereeing disputes; and facilitating, overseeing and advising on aid and reconstruction. Typically, patrols from the NZPRT deploy for three to four weeks at a time, basing themselves out of remote forward operating bases in each administrative region. Our PRT also assists and mentors the Afghan National Police, and has three New Zealand Police officers attached to support security sector

reform.A significant success has been the

provision of security advice and assistance to the police and local officials for the conduct of the presidential elections in 2005 and national and provincial elections this year. This in no small way contributed to very good results where Bamyan stood out in terms of voter registration, participation and the highest representation of women throughout Afghanistan in the process.

The NZPRT has been successful in assisting in the extension of the authority of the central Afghan government through its work with the provincial Governor. The Governor now has freedom of movement throughout the province and the PRT has provided mentoring and assistance to the Governor and her departmental officers. This has included significant assistance with the initial preparation of a Bamyan Province Strategic Development Plan.

To date over NZS5.6 million has been spent on projects by the PRT in Bamyan on behalf of NZAID with a further NZ$ 3 million committed. NZAlD as a whole has expended NZ$15 million to date and has a further NZ$15 million committed over the next three years. This has included our contribution to the rebuilding and equipping the Bamyan University and the Bamyan Boys School, and the construction and equipping of the Bamyan Hospital maternity block. Significant effort has gone into improving infrastructure throughout the province, by constructing or rehabilitating bridges, and assisting with roading development and winterisation arrangements for keeping key alpine passes open for as long as possible.

In the security sector, the PRT, again utilising NZAlD funding, has planned and supervised the construction of five new Afghan National Police district headquarters. In addition, vehicles, communications and other equipment have been provided for the Afghan National Police.

On 5 October the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation took military operational control for international forces in Afghanistan. The New Zealand PRT has transferred from US to NATO International Security Assistance Force control and new formal agreements between New Zealand and NATO have been concluded covering all our deployed elements.

Nearly 900 New Zealanders have served or are serving in Afghanistan as part of the New Zealand PRT. The success of our PRT has been acknowledged by our international partners and when prospective coalition partners are investigating the viability of either contributing or contributing to a PRT, they are inevitably advised to visit the NZPRT as an outstanding example of what can be achieved by a small nation with a small Defence Force situated ‘half a world’ away. While our model works well in Bamyan, it will not necessarily be the most appropriate in provinces with greater security concerns.

Other OperationsNew Zealand has taken part in other counter-terrorism-related mil i tary operations since December 2001. At various times, New Zealand has deployed a frigate as a part of OEF Maritime Interdiction Operations and an RNZAF P-3 Orion surveillance aircraft, C-

130 Hercules airlift support, and filled staff and training appointments. The professionalism of New Zealand’s Navy and Air Force contributions were widely praised.

HMNZS Te Kaha deployed from December 2002 until February 2003 when it was replaced by HMNZS Te Mana until June 2003. Core maritime interdiction tasks were investigation of vessels not responding to “radio hails” (typically non-English speaking dhows) and visits of other identified vessels. These were the primary methods deployed to detect and deter any suspected Al Qaeda and Taliban movement. Both frigates were involved in numerous interventions, some of which led to crews undertaking boarding operations.

During Christmas 2003, three vessels were tracked and reported by the RNZAF P-3 Orion, resulting in millions of dollars of heroin and hashish being able to be seized.

Since December 2001, New Zealand Defence Force staff officers have been attached to headquarters overseeing the various operations we have been part of. As well, two Non-Commissioned Officers have been attached to a British Army Team assisting in training the Afghan National Army.

Staff and training appointments provide valuable international experience for NZDF officers and NCOs. The staff appointments also provide New Zealand with insight into mission planning which affects our operations in Afghanistan, as well as access to information covering the full spectrum of international military and development engagement in the country.

The New Zealand SAS has conducted operations in Afghanistan over the period December 2001 to November 2005. The first deployment was for 12 months, with two subsequent deployments each for six months. The size of each contingent has varied between approximately 40 and 65 personnel, with all deployments working alongside other special forces as of the United States-led Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force.

Missions have been conducted in all seasons on ground ranging from open desert-like expanse through to the high

altitude, mountainous landscape of the Hindu Kush. Tasks for deployments have included special reconnaissance, direct action, close personnel protection and

specialist search. In addition, personnel have been involved in the planning and conduct of Special Operations Force missions. Many of these missions resulted in the development of intelligence.

The NZSAS’s unique skill at long range and duration patrols has been a highly valued and significant enhancement to other special forces’ efforts during the Afghanistan campaign. Typically patrols would last for upwards of 20 days and be re-supplied by helicopter. This exceeds the endurance of many others

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and allowed for considerable detail to be collected and analysed for application in decisive stages of a mission.

During the first deployment (December 2001-December 2002), the NZSAS conducted operations involving both helicopter inserted foot patrols and long range vehicle-mounted special reconnaissance patrols. During the second and third deployments (May-September 2004 and June-November 2005) operations were focussed on long range vehicle-mounted special reconnaissance patrols and direct action tasks.

Throughout the deployments, the New

Zealand Chief of Defence Force has retained full command of all NZDF personnel and assets through a Senior National Officer appointed by the commander Joint Forces New Zealand. This is the same for all NZDF overseas deployments.

The employment of NZDF personnel and assets on tasks other than those agreed at the outset requires consultation and approval from Wellington. Any tasks or locations considered inconsistent with the government’s policy objectives, or which may cause undue risk to NZDF personnel and assets, are declined, pending further advice from CDF.

The New Zealand SAS is held in high regard, - as demonstrated by the United States Presidential Citation awarded to the

NZSAS on 7 December 2004:‘For ex t raord inary hero ism and

outstanding performance of duty in action against the enemy in Afghanistan Task Force K-BAR successfully executed its primary mission to conduct special operations in support of the United States’ efforts to destroy, degrade, and neutralize the Taliban and Al Qaeda leadership and military. These precedent setting and extremely high-risk missions included search and rescue, special reconnaissance, sensitive site exploitation, direct action missions, destruction of multiple cave and tunnel complexes, identification and destruction of several known Al Qaeda training camps, explosion of thousands of pounds of enemy ordnance. Task Force

K-Bar set an unprecedented 100 percent mission success rate across a broad spectrum of special operations missions while operating under extremely difficult and constantly dangerous conditions. They established benchmark standards of professionalism, tenacity, courage, tactical brilliance, and operational excellence while demonstrating superb esprit de corps and maintaining the highest measures of combat readiness.’

Theatre experience, modern equipment capabilities and the high skill base of the individual soldier and the leadership and command ability of its commissioned and non commissioned officers have ensured that the NZSAS is well regarded.

On several occasions New Zealand

SAS have been involved in direct action. Casualties were suffered on both sides. No New Zealanders have been killed but some have been injured and that has been made known by the New Zealand Government at the time.

NZSAS troops have also been involved in actions where individuals were temporarily detained in order to capture Taliban and for Al Qaeda suspects believed to be among them. On two occasions during the first deployment New Zealand SAS elements were involved in operations during which they temporarily detained individuals for up to five hours. The number detained was in the range of fifty to seventy in total. The NZDF understands that no person who has been

held, even temporarily, in New Zealand custody is currently in the hands of the United States or other nations represented in the international forces.

The Chief of Defence has put in place procedures for the notification of the International Committee of the Red Cross of the fact that persons have been captured and/or transferred to another power, but not the details of the operation in which that occurred. Wherever possible, that notification is to include details identifying the individuals captured or transferred. New Zealand has, from an early stage, made clear our expectation that all detainees would be treated humanely and in accordance with international law.

BUSINESS AS USUAL – AFGHAN STYLEFLTLT Wayne Thomas gives us a personal view of the Afghanistan province of Bamyan and the work of the NZ Provincial Reconstruction team.

FLTLT Thomas standing at the opening of the Bamyan Boys School, on an extremely cold day.

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In October 2006, 108 Defence Force personnel deployed to Afghanistan as the latest rotation of New Zealand’s commitment to the rebuilding of this war-torn country. The vast majority of these troops, myself included, are situated at the New Zealand Provincial Reconstruction Team (NZPRT) in the Bamyan Province. We are the ninth rotation of Kiwi troops to Afghanistan, and are responsible for a multitude of tasks; from actively maintaining security in the province, capacity building and reconstruction, to the smooth running of our camp.

Bamyan is situated in the Central Highlands of Afghanistan, and is pretty much smack bang in the middle of the country. After years of war and internal conflict, the entire nation and its infrastructure has suffered greatly. Bamyan in particular is a very poor province, and the Hazaren people (the ethnic majority of Bamyan, but a minority in Afghanistan) endured a great deal under the Taliban regime. In a way this is lucky for us, as the people of Bamyan are very welcoming to the security we bring, and for the opportunity for reconstruction. Bamyan

consists of seven districts; Bamyan Central, Shibar, Sayghan, Kahmard, Yakawlang, Panjab and Waras. During winter the NZPRT has patrol teams that live within their respective Areas of Operations, consisting of one or more districts. The NZPRT itself is situated in Central Bamyan, within sight of the famous Buddhas that were destroyed by the Taliban.

About now you may be wondering where I fit in to this mission. My official title is ‘S5 Planning Officer’ and I am the Staff Officer responsible for identifying, organising and implementing the NZPRT’s reconstruction efforts in Bamyan. This is a complex and multi-faceted position, and has given me ample opportunity to encounter the many experiences involved in an operational deployment.

As one of only a handful of Air Force personnel working in a predominantly

Army operation there have been many culture shocks, the biggest and most obvious is working with the Afghan people. The people of Bamyan primarily speak Dari, which is very similar to Persian. As such, the majority of my conversations are through one of our locally employed interpreters. Using an interpreter is an experience in itself, and I will never truly master it during my time here. Conversations through an interpreter aren’t really conversations, each party must wait its turn to talk and there is no opportunity to interrupt. It’s not until you lose the ability to interrupt that you realise just how much we do it in normal conversation. As a result it is hard to steer a conversation and you quite often end up having to cover completely irrelevant topics. Another problem is the subtleties of conversation are lost when someone else is conveying the message. As a result you often have to be quite blunt and there is definitely no opportunity to hint at something.

Another shock, particularly to us Kiwi blokes, is the affection displayed by Afghan males. It’s not uncommon to see two

men holding hands, and it’s more than a little off putting having a conversation while a big man with a beard is holding your hand. While to us this would have a certain connotation, in Afghanistan it is a sign of great respect, so you have to swallow your pride and fight the nagging urge to pull your hand away. Another sign of respect is to touch cheeks when shaking hands during a greeting. Unfortunately no one warned me about this before my first encounter and I ended up leaning well out of the way, to both my and Sultan Hussain’s embarrassment. On my second encounter I was better prepared, but this time the second party was thanking me and threw in a sneaky wee kiss on the cheek. To my dismay one of the PRT mechanics was standing next to me when this happened, and he takes great joy in reminding me of this encounter.

While Afghanistan is one of the most impoverished countries in the world, the Afghan people’s generosity is astounding. I have been invited into people’s homes for meals and have had some of my best experiences in Afghanistan as a result. Undoubtedly these invites are a result of my position within the NZPRT, but the underlying generosity is genuine. While you have to be careful what you eat, (dairy products are a huge risk) I have had some delicious cuisine during what can only be described as banquets. Where as in New Zealand it is polite for a guest to bring a gift or plate, in Afghanistan this borders on insulting. Instead it is the custom for the host to present gifts to

their guests, even to the extent of giving a gift to the Afghan National Policeman who stood guard outside during the meal. According to the interpreters (who double as my cultural advisors) to decline these gifts would be seen as a huge personal insult. It is a truly humbling experience to receive such generous hospitality in such an impoverished country.

If you think the drivers on the Auckland Motorway are bad, you should experience Afghanistan. Although there isn’t a single sealed road in Bamyan the drivers all think they are Michael Schumacher. Much like the Motorway, indicating appears to be optional and a roundabout can be

negotiated in any direction the driver wishes. Occasionally drivers will check for traffic before entering an intersection but in general it pays to steer clear of any other vehicles on the road. Additionally all pedestrians seem to have right of way and prefer to walk in the middle of the road, even when there is a sidewalk.

There are many other cultural differences that are obvious when you visit a country like Afghanistan, but they all pale in comparison to the breath taking beauty of the country and the people. To quote the NZPRT Logistics Officer, ‘Afghanistan is a beautiful country, with simple plumbing’.

Using an interpreter is an experience in itself, and I will never truly

master it during my time here.


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Director - WGCDR Tim Walshe 368-7780

Development Officer - SQNLDR Jim Jennings 368-7781

Briefing Officer - MACR Gats Pleasants 368-7782

Resource Library 368-7784

APDC Fax 368-7785

ON TEAMWORKIn this final in our series of articles on the RNZAF Mission Statement and core values we cover ‘teamwork’. Previous APDC articles dealt with ‘integrity’ and ‘professionalism’

MACR Gats PleasantsTeamwork is the concept of people working together for a common cause. It implies a co-operative wherein individual accomplishments are directed toward organizational objectives. In our case it involves all members of the Service doing their bit towards our mission of providing air power to the nation. Maybe this is not immediately apparent to us all but I hope the following analogy will help.

In 1953 when Ed Hillary and Sherpa Tensing took those last few steps to conquer Mt Everest, (yes I was around in 1953 and remember it well) did they do it alone? No they did not! They had a large team behind them, a team mostly unknown and unsung, but very important to the success of the mission. Like Hillary and Tensing we also have a large team. When we see one of our aircraft flying, is the pilot, the Hillary/ Tensing part of the team, the only factor enabling that aircraft to fly? Clearly it’s not, and we know that a very large team, rather than a prominent few, enable that final effect.

In large organisations with challenging goals, good teamwork is essential if we are to achieve and sustain our goals. The consequences of not working as a team could well result in failure of the mission.

Throughout my 38 years in the Service I have actively encouraged teamwork and during that time I have learned the value of a good team. My flying career with No 5 Squadron instilled the essential teamwork ethic wherein, with a small team of 11 crew members, it was vital that every member of that crew understood the importance of working together as a team to ensure the success of each and every mission. In a team situation the whole will always be greater than the sum of the parts.

What then defines a successful team? At the individual level I believe essential attributes include listening to others, the need to be able to question, and the fostering of an environment where individuals feel comfortable discussing their ideas. We must respect our fellow team members and support them in times of need. Full participation within our team is vital and all aspects of teamwork need to be inclusive.

We know in sport that a successful team has good management and a captain that fosters teamwork. In a previous article on professionalism we mentioned the All Blacks as an example. Why have they been successful? Part of the answer is the plan, both their game plan and their broader long-term goals for winning. We too have a plan, clearly set out in NZAP 701, the RNZAF’s Strategic Plan (on the Intranet).

So what if something goes wrong during the game? The captain

gathers his team around him and discusses ways and means to alleviate the mistakes that have just been made. Sure, if things continue to go wrong or the

opposition offers new challenges, then the broader plan may be adjusted by management with the team being made aware of the changes and the need for refocused efforts.

What about our team? We, in the RNZAF team, also have our management in the form of our Headquarters. Like national sports teams’ management and controlling bodies who are not only responsible for the top team, but also the provinces and clubs, the same applies in the RNZAF. Our management and controlling body (the HQ) administers our premier team, the RNZAF, as well as our provincial and club teams, the Wings, Squadron, Flights and Sections etc. The teamwork required in these smaller clubs is identical to that of our premier team.

We in the RNZAF team need to ensure that we do our job with professionalism, integrity and teamwork. So as an avid rugby follower I ask you all to ensure that you follow the game plan and support our captains (CO, Flt Cdr W/O etc) and management team (CAF, Air Staff). We need to avoid the red cards and make sure that as a top team we follow the game and stick to the rules. Sure we may get the odd yellow card or collapsed scrum, but if we retain the ball and keep the forward drive going, as a team we will achieve our mission.

The old adage still stands. There is no ‘I’ in team and the strength of the ‘TEAM’ is each INDIVIDUAL, and the strength of the INDIVIDUAL is the ‘TEAM’. Remember ‘teamwork’ is the key to WINNING the game and being an ‘Air Force that is the best in all that we do’.

A MUM’S REMINDER OF HOME

His mother, Mrs Marg Thomas of Te Puke, was at a loss as to what to send her son for Christmas. ‘What do you send a grown son when there is a weight limit on the gift and he’s on the other side of the world?

I saw the Kiwi emblem on the cover of The Bugle, the little magazine that is sent to the families of deployed personnel, and I decided I’d make him a wall hanging. I wanted the hanging to remind him of home, and how much we miss him, but also to represent what he is doing, and the reasons why the New Zealand Provincial Reconstruction Team is in Afghanistan.’

FLTLT Thomas had already sent some photos home, and, armed with knowledge she had about the deployment, Mrs Thomas started stitching.

The first panel bears the name of the deployment, and shows the Kiwi and a Silver Fern. The second represents the Afghanistan landscape. The small panels on each side were made from scraps of fabric, usually discarded by quilters. ‘I incorporated these scraps to show my concern for the poverty that people endure in other parts of the world.’

The next panels are reminders of New Zealand, and the tri-service nature of the

deployment. They incorporate the sky, land and sea, including the four stars of the Southern Cross, lush native bush, and waves rolling in to a beach. A tukutuku panel acknowledges the Maori aspect of New Zealand’s culture.

Mrs Thomas said she included a plain backing to the wall hanging so members of the PRT can sign it.

‘Who knows, maybe it will be something of a keepsake in the years to come, and will remind Wayne of his time in Afghanistan.’

A quilter for three years, Mrs Thomas says she enjoys the handcraft, and always has ‘something on the go.’

ABOVE AND RIGHT: Mr Thomas’s quilt. Top right: the entire quilt. Mid right: reminders of New Zealand including sky, sea and land with the four stars of the Southern Cross. Bottom right: the explanation and above left: the Afghanistan landscape and expressing her concern for people’s poverty.

KIWI COMMITMENT EXTENDEDOn 13 March the Defence Minister the Honourable Phil Goff confirmed that New Zealand’s contribution to reconstruction efforts in Afghanistan will be expanded and extended until September 2008.

The government’s announcement was welcomed by the New Zealand Defence Force’s Commander of Joint Forces New Zealand, Rear Admiral Jack Steer.

‘ T he New Zea land Pro v i n c i a l Reconstruction Team (NZPRT) has been in Afghanistan for over three years.

‘Based in the Bamyan Province, the NZPRT has developed an excellent rapport with the locals and made a significant contribution to reconstruction efforts in

the region. ‘‘The announcement of a further

deployment of a frigate to support Maritime Interdiction Operations (MIO) in the Arabian Gulf further highlights the ability of the NZDF to make a meaningful contribution in a number of contingencies.’

At the request of the Canadian government, the NZDF will also supply two medical specialists to a Multinational Medical Unit at Khandahar Airfield in Southern Afghanistan.

The NZDF currently has 105 personnel serving with the NZPRT in Bamyan. (see pages 24-25 for the report).

SINGAPORE JOINS NZ IN AFGHANISTAN

Singapore’s Defence Minister Teo Chee Hean has announced that Singaporean Armed Forces (SAF) personnel will join the NZPRT in Afghanistan. The SAF will undertake two humanitarian reconstruction projects: A five person SAF dental team will bring in specialist equipment and establish the dental clinic. The Singaporean team will operate the clinic and provide training for local Afghans to enable them to eventually take over the clinic. Five SAF engineers work alongside NZDF engineers and local contractors on the ongoing construction and maintenance of bridges in the province.

FLTLT Wayne Thomas, currently serving in Afghanistan, has a constant reminder of home by way of a hand stitched wall hanging that tells an extensive story.


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The new energy efficient Defence House in Aitken Street was officially opened on 28 March by Prime Minister Helen Clark.

The building, which has been designed to reduce energy consumption, houses around 900 personnel.

The building features an open-plan layout with an energy efficient air conditioning system and windows designed to maximize natural lighting.

The opening ceremony was attended by the Minister of Defence Phil Goff, Chief of Defence Force LT GEN Jerry Mateparae, Secretary of Defence John McKinnon, senior personnel and invited guests.

A Barrack Guard made up of Navy, Army and Air Force personnel received the Prime Minister on her arrival at Defence House.

‘The official opening of this new Defence House is another milestone in

the ongoing strategy to build a modern, professional Defence Force,’ said LT GEN Mateparae.

‘The new Defence H o u s e h a s b e e n designed to encourage communication and productivity. It provides a pleasant working environment, about which I have already received much positive feedback,’ he said.

The Prime Minister unveiled the building plaque and declared the building open. The Prime Minister and invited guests were then taken on a short tour of the building.

A ritual opening of Defence House was conducted at dawn led by Kaumatua Rangitihi Tahuparae.

The ritual, to install the Mauri (lifeforce) to the building, involved Navy, Army and Air Force Maori Cultural Group personnel and other Defence personnel.

The bulk of the Defence personnel moved into the new building during February from the former Defence premises in Stout Street.

PM OPENS NEW ENERGY EFFICIENT DEFENCE HOUSE

The tri-Service Barrack Guard stands at ease.

Prime Minister Helen Clark was on hand to unveil the building’s plaque.

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NEW ZEALAND CADET FORCES CERTIFICATE OF TRAINING AND MANAGEMENTFLTLT Tania McKinnon, NZCF, of No. 33 (Westport) Squadron ATC was presented with the NZ Cadet Forces Certificate of Training and Management by COL David Russell (DAC Pers) in Wellington on Friday 16 February 2007. FLTLT McKinnon is the first NZCF Officer to achieve the certificate which involves formalised course instruction as well as distance learning modules.

The certificate, issued by Tai Poutini Polytechnic, recognises the effort and achievement of NZ Cadet Forces Officers. The award is achieved through the successful completion of all pre-Command courses and includes NZQA Unit Standards complimented by NZCF Local Course Content derived standards. To date

three NZCF Officers have been awarded the certificate and a further 51 are working

towards it. Congratulations Tania! www.cadetforces.mil.nz

L – R: LTCDR L. Knaapen, RNZN, LTCOL Bob Campbell (COMDT NZCF), FLTLT Tania McKinnon, NZCF, COL David Russell (DAC Pers).

ATC SQUADRON MOVES TO BASE WOODBOURNEAfter 30 years at Omaka Airfield, Blenheim’s No 27 Squadron, Air Training Corps has moved to new premises at RNZAF Base Woodbourne. The Squadron has moved from a dilapidated ex-military building at Omaka to the previous Ground Avionics buildings at Longbank, on the far side of the Base.

CO Operational Support Wing, WGCDR Dave Green, welcomed the unit to the Base at its first formal parade in the new location and presented a new RNZAF Ensign to the Cadet Unit Commander, SQNLDR Peter Carter, NZCF. The move provides a significant boost to the unit and means the Squadron does

not have to expend significant funds on building upkeep, as it had to do at Omaka. No 27 Squadron had been at Omaka since 1967 in buildings that are

WWII era and many RNZAF servicemen and women had provided assistance to the ATC Squadron over the years. However, the new location strengthens the ties to Woodbourne and really enhances the training environment. WGCDR Green has gone to great lengths to assist this ATC Squadron since he was posted to Woodbourne and the ATC members are extremely grateful for what he, and his Base staff, have done for the cadet unit. The efforts of Base Woodbourne personnel have helped create an excellent new home for No

27 Squadron and are to be commended for their proactive approach in helping this Air Training Corps Squadron.

Raising the flag at their new premises.


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COMBAT CHALLENGELAC Hayden KinzettOn Saturday 10th March 2007, 161 Fire Fighters gathered in Feilding at Manfeild Park to compete in the first ever National Fire Fighters Combat Challenge. Among that 161 were LAC Caleb McCarthy, LAC Dougie King and myself all from the RNZAF Base Auckland Fire Flight.

The 161 competitors consisted of The New Zealand Fire Service both paid and volunteer staff, Airport Fire Services from all over New Zealand and us representing the RNZAF Rescue Fire Service.

The challenge consisted of 5 different energy-sapping evolutions whilst wearing full f ire fighting kit and Breathing apparatus. The first was a 6-storey tower climb carrying a 20kg hose. Once at the top we had to haul another 20kg hose up the side of the tower. After racing back to the bottom the next challenge was the forcible entry evolution, this involved moving a 72kg slab of steel 1.5 metres with a 4kg shot mallet. Upon completing this, the mallet had to be placed into an

80cm x 80cm square followed by a slalom sprint of 50m. We then had to drag a 45mm hose charged with water 30m to knock down a metal target. The last and hardest evolution was the 80 kg dummy drag over 30m to the finish line.

Now you may be thinking that this challenge doesn’t sound all that hard, but when you’re aiming to get under 2 min or as close as possible it suddenly becomes the toughest 2 minutes in sport.

Caleb was up first, crossing the finish line in front of his competitor with a time of 2mins 48 sec.

Doug ran after this and was narrowly beaten but still achieved a good time of 2.58, it was my turn next and achieving a time of 2.39 placed myself in the top ten.

The afternoon saw all three of us in the top 30 which meant that we would be running in the finals. Up first was myself then Caleb with Doug soon after. We all pushed ourselves as hard as we could with Caleb having the tightest finish of

the challenge, falling over at the finish line with just enough momentum to get the dummy over in front of his competitor. With the days competition over we went to the prize-giving unaware of our final times and placings. It was then announced that the fastest five competitors in the open male category would be going to Florida to compete in the World Combat Challenge as the first kiwi team to do so. To my surprise I ran a time of 2.19.63 to place me 3rd overall and have been selected to go to Florida in November. Caleb was placed 11th with 2.34.05 and Doug 19th with 2.43.40. All three of us would like to encourage all NZDF Fire Fighters to take part in this event as it’s a great challenge, an opportunity to show our skills and fitness in the public arena, and a chance to build camaraderie and make a lot of new mates. There will be a chance to do this challenge again later this year, so fire fighters come and compete and everyone else come and cheer our guys on.

THE GOOD OLD DAYSWhen the DC3 on the tour of New Zealand aerodromes to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the formation of New Zealand National Airways Corporation (NZNAC) touched down at Paraparaumu on the afternoon of 28 March 2007, there were two Air Force connections to the event.

Marshalling in the aircraft to a position outside the Kapiti Aero Club (which was the original ‘temporary’ NZNAC terminal built in 1947 was Warrant Officer Brian Lay.

Paul Harrison, Chief Executive Officer at the Aero Club had approached Warrant Officer Lay to see if he could provide this service as he is qualified to marshal aircraft, and with the provision of white overalls and using old fashioned ‘bats’ he represented what was common practice at Paraparaumu in the late 1940s.

The aircraft being used for the commemorative flights also has a superficial RNZAF connection. Although this particular DC3 did not see RNZAF service, it is currently painted in the 1970s colour scheme of NZ3546.

It was appropriate that an RNZAF C47/DC3 was represented at this

commemoration, as it was the Air Force that commenced a quasi military/civil airline service through Paraparaumu in 1944. The RNZAF’s C47s were too large to safely use what was then a small airfield at Rongotai, so Paraparaumu became the hub for the lower North Island operations.

The temporary airline service became a full time operation of No.40 Squadron on 1 October 1945 and by 31 March 1946 over 40,996 passengers had been carried up and down the country. This service continued until May 1947 when NZNAC took over the responsibility for domestic air routes. Ironically, it was most of the members and aircraft of No.40 Squadron who formed the new airline, the personnel swapping their Air Force uniforms for the NZNAC ones literally overnight, along with the aircraft shedding their RNZAF markings for civil markings.

During the Warbirds aircraft’s brief stay at Paraparaumu several ex-Air Force pilots who had flown these magnificent old aircraft took the opportunity to touch and sit in the front office of the DC3.

Research Note: The real RNZAF NZ3546 joined the service on 20 June 1945 being flight ferried from Kaneohe in the Hawaiian Islands. It served with No 41 Squadron for the remainder of the war, and post war was flown on the Japan courier run, made two trips to the UK in 1947 taking crews to uplift the Mosquito aircraft. It then served with “A” Flight of No.41 Squadron in Malaya before being sold to NZNAC in July 1952, taking up the civilian registration ZK-AWQ.

With the introduction of the F27 Fokker Friendships into NZNAC service in the early 1960s ZK-AWQ became surplus and was returned to the RNZAF in April 1961. It was modified into the role of target towing with the fitting of a target drogue suite in the rear of the cabin and an astrodome in the rear door. Flying with No.42 Squadron NZ3546 continued service until the Dakotas were retired in 1977.

In somewhat controversial circumstances NZ3546 along with several other retired RNZAF Dakotas were ferried to South Africa where they served with the South African Air Force (SAF). NZ3546 became 6863 in SAF service and was converted to turboprop power during that service. It was subsequently sold to an American buyer and took up the U.S civilian registration of N81907.

Some of the challenges faced by the Air Force Firefighters. Clockwise (from top left): The Tower; The Keiser Force Machine; the Body Drag; the Hose Drag.

FOR AIR FORCEFIREFIGHTERS

T H E G O O D O L D D A Y SF I R E F I G H T E R S C H A L L E N G E

The Warbirds DC3, alias NZ3546, taxies in to the tarmac near the Kapiti Aero Club under the guidance of Warrant Officer Brian Lay RNZAF. The Aero Club building is a ‘temporary’ building erected in 1947 for NZNAC.

NZDF SPORTS AWARDS

The New Zealand Defence Force Sports Awards were held on Friday 23 March at the Westpac Stadium in Wellington. PR Manager, Events, Mrs Alison Clelland reports on the ceremony.

Among the 50 invited guests were the Chief of Defence Force LT GEN Jerry Mateparae, Chief of Navy RA David Ledson, Chief of Army MAJ GEN Lou Gardiner and Deputy Chief of Air Force AIR CDRE Richard Newlands.

Master of Ceremonies for the afternoon was CDR Karen Ward who welcomed the invited NZDF personnel and sponsor’s representatives. Awards were presented to each recipient by the CDF.

The first award was the NZDF Individual Sportsperson of the Year, of which there were two nominees. This was won by FLTLT Craig Searle who has had an extremely busy sporting year having been involved in touch, softball, basketball, volleyball and soccer at RNZAF and NZDF levels.

The second award was the NZDF Official of the Year, with three nominees. SGT Terry Miritana was the award recipient for his outstanding contribution to NZDF

sport. SGT Miritana has been extensively involved with Army and NZDF Touch for the past four years. A notable achievement was coaching the NZDF over 30s team which claimed the silver medal at the New Zealand Nationals in 2007.

The third award was for the NZDF Sports Team of the Year, with ten teams nominated. This category is awarded to the NZDF team that makes the most outstanding contribution to NZDF sport. The award was given to the NZDF Mixed Open Touch Team. The award was received by team captain S SGT Greg Mildon. The Mixed Open Touch Team recently came third at the New Zealand National Masters held in Auckland.

There were three nominees for the final award - Outstanding Sportsperson of the Year – PO Emma Cairns, FLTLT Craig Searle and CAPT Shannon Stallard. This award was won by PO PTI Emma Cairns

who has had a very successful year in both touch and rugby league. PO PTI Cairns most notable achievement has been for her rugby league season. She played for the Northcote Tigers Rugby League side, and was named for the Auckland Rugby League squad and was named in the squad to play against Australia.

The awards saw the NZDF Colour being given for the first time. This award is given to Service or civilian people who merit special recognition for their outstanding contribution to NZDF Sport. The recipient of this award was W/O Combat Systems Specialist David Pilgrim, who received the blazer from the CDF.

WOSCS Pilgrim has made an outstanding contribution to the development of Women’s Soccer in the NZDF taking the NZDF Women’s Soccer team to the Australian Defence Force Women’s Soccer carnival in Sydney in 2006.

The sponsors of each award then came forward to receive a NZDF Sports Committee coin in appreciation of their support throughout the year.

FLTLT Craig Searle [Air] receiving the cup for NZDF Outstanding Sportsperson of the Year 2005-2006 from CDF, LT GEN Mateparae at the NZDF Sportsperson of the Year Awards were held at the Westpac Stadium, Wellington.

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The CDF then gave a short speech where he acknowledged the bravery of SGT Nathan Blacker who had passed away that morning. He also congratulated the award recipients and acknowledged the sports officials and administrators that work behind the scenes.

A short DVD was then shown to introduce the guest speaker for the day ex-Black Sox softball team member Mark Sorenson. Mark talked about how the Black Sox team already had a link to the NZDF through having held a number of training camps at army facilities over the years. He spoke about the team’s constant battle for funding and how the Black Sox New Zealand Men’s Softball team overcame the odds to win three Softball World Championships in a row – the only country ever to achieve this. He also stressed that to achieve success in sport you need to generate it yourself through hard work.

The awards were concluded with a light luncheon.

WSGT Terry Miratana [Army] receiving the cup for NZDF Sports Official of the Year 2005-2006 from CDF, LT GEN Mateparae.

PO PTI Emma Cairns [Navy]receiving the NZDF Outstanding Sports Award 2005-2006 from CDF, LT GEN Mateparae.

Representing the NZDF Mixed Open Touch Team was team captain S SGT Greg Mildon receiving sponsers prizes from Hills Hats’ Mrs Anthea Griffith.

FLTLT Craig Searle with sponsor Canterbury of New Zealand representative Ms Joanne Bowden.

Guest speaker was Black Sox New Zealand Men’s Softball team member Mr Mark Sorenson.

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STROKE ‘N’ STRIDE SERIES 2006/2007F/S Grant WinwoodIt all started way back in November 2006 and finished in March 2007. This is the Stroke and Stride, an eight race swim/run series held at St Heliers Bay beach in Auckland. I had to miss the first race in the series as I was in Australia but more on that later.

The Stroke and Stride has been around in Auckland for 18 years and comprises a sea swim followed by a run. The distances of the swim and run legs vary with each race e.g. short swim and long run, or long swim and short run. The final race in the series comprises the longest swim of 1km and a 4km run. Each five year age group is sponsored and a points system is allocated for the top 15 finishers per age group. Winning your age group gets you 20 points, 2nd you get 17 points etc. Your best six results out of the eight races count, with the last race being compulsory.

After missing the first race, I entered the series at race two and came away with a win, so I was off to a great start. The key to such a long series is remaining injury free and targeting the events which suit your strengths. As the series progressed I had some great results, winning all the remaining races. The series concluded with an awesome prize-giving dinner. Hamish Carter and Ironman champion Cameron Brown were guest speakers and also presented the age group awards.

My winning efforts were rewarded with a cheque for five hundred dollars. This has gone towards my next sporting endeavour and the reason for missing the first race in the Stroke and Stride series. My major goal for the season was to qualify for the Half Ironman World Triathlon Championships being held in Florida, November 2007. I had to qualify in a race held at Port Macquarie, Australia in November 2006. After a week of rain in drought torn Australia, I was greeted with a bike transition area of mud and puddles

as huge as ‘lakes’. I placed seventh in my age group and achieved the sought after qualification slot announced at prize giving. There were just 70 slots awarded to a field of 1000 athletes.

The World Champs will be a second occasion for me to represent NZ and achieve another milestone in a sport that has enabled me to travel widely and meet

so many people.With November 2007 now on the radar,

I’ll have a planned break to refresh and fully recover before preparing a training regime that will include the Auckland winter weather, one thing I am not looking forward to so much.

A big thanks to the RNZAF Base Auckland Multisports Club for their support.

F/S Winwood on his way to winning his age group at the annual Stroke and Stride Series held at St Heliers Bay, Auckland 2007.

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RELAY FOR LIFEMr Robert McIverOver the weekend of 17/18 March, Air Staff entered a team in the Wellington Cancer Society’s Relay For Life.

The relay is one of the Cancer Society of New Zealand’s annual fundraising events and Wellington was one of 15 towns and cities to host a relay over February and March.

The relay began at 4pm on Saturday afternoon and finished at midday Sunday - 21 hours long due to an extra hour as daylight savings ended. There were 97 teams, and the tent city inside the relay track provided a festival atmosphere for those not running at the time.

The 12 strong Air Staff team was organised by Mr Shaun Corrigan (HQNZDF), and included people from different parts of Defence in the Wellington area with a few ring-ins of friends and family.

Although it is not a race, the number of laps and lap times are counted. The Air Force team came in at fourth place having completed 428 laps of the 1/2

Participants (L-R): Shaun Corrigan, CPL Paul Harmer, Maree Whitehead, Terry Whitehead, Robert McIver, Bronwyn Thurston, Sally Johnson, CPL Tania Brewer, Kylie Gray.Not pictured: FGOFF Ron Hunt, W/O Paul Richardson, Andrea Horton.

km course around Frank Kitts Park. This was a fantastic result, but we were well and truly beaten by NZ Cadet Forces who came in second place - they had the benefit of youth!

We would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who contributed and especially to the Wellington Welfare Fund who provided the entry fee and refreshments. Also a big thanks to the NZ Cadet Forces who

provided some great sideline support for our runners throughout the event.

So far our team has raised nearly $1,500 and the Cancer Society is on track to reach its ambitious target figure of $500,000 for the Wellington event. Funds raised will go towards cancer research, prevention and early detection activities, and patient services at the Cancer Society of New Zealand.

THE DAVID CULVERWELL MEMORIAL TROPHYThe David Culverwell Memorial Trophy was donated by Mr and Mrs Denis Culverwell in memory of their son David who was tragically killed in a motor vehicle accident. The trophy was first presented in 2004. Since its inaugural presentation, the trophy has remained firmly ensconced at No 16 (City of Tauranga) Squadron ATC, along with the other NZCF Shooting trophies.Below - Mrs Pam Culverwell presents the trophy to Cadet Sergeant J. WAUGH.

ODD SPOT

I’m not sure about the veracity of this image submitted by Christchurch reader Kirsty Breen. It’s either a very clever use of Photoshop trickery or an example of the unexpected dangers of being a helicopter crewman (especially for those in No. 6 Squadron). Readers are invited to comment if you know more - Editor.


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U P C O M I N G E V E N T S & R E U N I O N S WRNZAF REUNIONNo.37 Recruit Course May 1964All interested contact the following:

Jean (Nairn) Dix,11 Marshwood Place, Christchurch 8004.

Rebbecca (Pavala) Dower 31A Kashmir Avenue, Upper Hutt 5018

Wiki Ward-Holmes [email protected] Towgood [email protected]

11th Boy Entrant Course ReunionA 50th Anniversary reunion of the 11th Boy Entrant School Coursewill be held in January, 2008 at Woodbourne/ Blenheim. Please contact Jim Hoskyn E-Mail: [email protected] or phone 06-8794457 .

NO. 25 AIRMEN CADET

SCHOOL INTAKE

1968 & NO.7 CERT IN

ENGINEERING COURSE.

40th Anniversary

2008

Contact: Philip Blank

[email protected]

F A R E W E L L S A N D N O T I C E S

MALAYSIAN MEMORY TOURMerdeka 50th AnniversaryAugust 2007Contact: Russ Byrne56B Hynds Road,Greerton, Tauranga

No. 41 Squadron(RNZAF) Association is having its bi-annual reunion in Christchurch over 13-14th April 2007. Contact the President: Barry BalsomTel: +64 3 374 3045Fax: +64 3 374 [email protected]

BASE AUCKLANDFLTLT M.C. BISHOPEnlist: 30-09-97Terminate: 28-05-07No.5 Squadron

CPL R.J. CULLENEnlist: 09-01-96Terminate: 17-06-07No.5 Squadron

SGT H.M. DICKSONEnlist: 29-06-93Terminate: 27-05-07Publications Library

SQNLDR T.M.J. GREENINGEnlist: 09-07-63Terminate: 07-05-07Maintenance Wing HQ

CPL A. JENDENEnlist: 19-09-00Terminate: 27-05-07Transit Section

CPL M.S. STEWARTEnlist: 14-01-97Terminate: 10-04-07Avionics Squadron

SGT H.M. DICKSONEnlist: 29-06-93Terminate: 27-05-07

BASE OHAKEAAC A.K. CRAIGEnlist: 13-01-04No.3 SquadronCPL P.A. DALZELLEnlist: 28-09-99

Terminate: 09-04-07AMF-HYD BAY

SQNLDR J.D. EYLEYEnlist: 06-10-03Terminate: 09-04-07Base Ops

WELLINGTONW/O M.R. KERREnlist: 08-07-86Terminate: 09-04-07

SQNLDR K.R. SPEIRSEnlist: 28-06-94Terminate: 01-06-07Plans

BASE WOODBOURNESGT R.C. DARRELLEnlist: 05-01-99Terminate: 09-04-07ETS

LAC K.W.DAVISONEnlist: 16-09-03Terminate: 11-05-07ABWWB

CPL W.G. FROSTEnlist: 07-04-99Terminate: 09-04-07LSWB

W/O M.R. SNALAMEnlist: 17-01-77Terminate: 20-05-07ATS

RANNERDALE GALA DAY17 November 2007, 10.00am - 4.00pm, Rannerdale Fields, Suva Street, Upper RiccartonThe Rannerdale Veterans Home and Hospital is dedicated to the care and welfare of veterans and their families within Canterbury, West Coast and Nelson regions. To celebrate our 85th anniversary and the 50th Jubilee on our site in Hansons Lane, Upper Riccarton, the Rannerdale Trust Board is planning a Gala Day to be held on Saturday 17 November 2007 on Rannerdale Fields, Suva Street, Upper Riccarton - to which everyone is invited. With active and static displays throughout the day including Army, Police, Search & Rescue, Westpac Helicopter, Navy, Air Force, Territorials, Naval Reserve, St John Ambulance, Red Cross, and Regimental Associations, there will be a lively programme of community interest and public entertainment. Entry to the Gala Day is free. This is a community celebration to honour our war veterans and to acknowledge and celebrate the support of the community.

>>NO.5 SQUADRON’S HISTORIC PRESENTATION

In February this year at a ceremony at Base Auckland W/O Ted Smith of the Base Auckland Band received a CAF Commendation from the CAF AVM Lintott.

W/O Smith received the CAF commendation for 46 years of outstanding service to RNZAF Base Bands and to the many leadership roles he has taken in bands over those years. In particular in 2004 the Base Auckland Band did not have a Bandmaster for a period of four months. During this time W/O Smith took up the control of the Band and ensured the continued activities of the Band until the arrival of the new Bandmaster (see pages 42-43 for coverage of the Band’s visit to Hong Kong).RIGHT: CAF AVM Graham Lintott presents W/O E. Smith with his CAF commendation.

Commendation for ‘outstanding service’

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FALKLANDS ANNIVERSARY DINNER 14 June 2007 is the 25th anniversary of the end of Falklands War - a milestone in the lives of everyone who served in the South Atlantic. To commemorate this date it is intended to hold a dinner for veterans of the Falkalnds War on 16

June 2007 in Auckland. For further information please contact LTCDR Will Paris on either:· 09 445 5016· DtelN: 397-7293· [email protected]

The RNZAF Auckland Open Day in March this year yielded an unexpected bonus for No.5 Squadron. It came in the form of a painting being presented to the Squadron by local artist Mr Ian Hughes. The painting depicts 5 Squadron Sunderlands in Lauthala Bay, Fiji. Over the period 1944 to 1966 the RNZAF maintained a permanent detachment of Sunderlands in Lauthala Bay conducting patrols, shipping escorts and Search and Rescue duties throughout the region.

A week following the Open Day, Mr Hughes visited 5 Squadron to hand over the painting also taking the time to take a personal tour of 5 Squadron and the P-3K Orion. Mr Hughes was accompanied by Mr Mike Smith who presented the Squadron with a photographic montage of early life at RNZAF Auckland from the time it was a civil airport.

Mr Hughes has maintained a life long interest in military aviation with the Sunderland being one of his favourite aircraft, one that he has admired since he was a young boy watching the Sunderlands operate from Hobson Bay. Mr Hughes the said the painting recalls ‘the dedication and sacrifice of the men who flew the aircraft from Lauthala Bay, a tradition which 5 Squadron continues today’.

Both Ian Hughes and Mike Smith are actively involved in restoration work of an ex 5 Squadron Sunderland (NZ 4115) at Aucklands MOTAT Museum. The restoration work is being carried out by a group of dedicated volunteers who are in the process of restoring the aircrafts interior, as well as the hull and exterior surfaces.

Anyone interested in joining the restoration project are urged to contact the MOTAT Project Manager – Mr Norm Mc Kevey on (09)836 4644

or 021 540 486.

CO 5 WGCDR Logan Cudby accepts the Sunderland painting from Ian Hughes.

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The painting presented by Mr Ian Hughes.

N O . 5 S Q U A D R O N P R E S E N T A T I O N

> A KIWI MAKES AN ANZAC DAY RESCUEBetween 1941 and 1945 UK-based squadrons equipped with the Walrus seaplane rescued or helped to rescue more than 1,300 airmen. The following story, from the book Another Kind Of Courage, is about PLTOFF ‘Kiwi’ Saunders’ rescue of RAAF navigator W/O Jim Haugh after he ditched in the English Channel. Sadly his Kiwi pilot FGOFF ‘Snow’ Fittock* died in the crash and was left at sea. W/O Haugh remembers:

It was ANZAC Day, a day very special to Australians and New Zealanders.

Our squadron had moved to Gravesend on 17 April 1944 and we were living under canvas in preparation for the invasion of Europe. ANZAC Day was something special. New Zealanders on an Australian squadron — another ANZAC mission; a London newspaper photographer came down and took photos of a group of us. On the 26th, the photo appeared in (I think) the Daily Sketch and Fittock and Haugh were both in the picture.

Preparation and take-off were routine and I recall that we left England at Littlehampton. I recall seeing evidence of invasion preparations; all sorts of military naval and air equipment parked in appropriate places, but not very well concealed.

We flew low over the Channel, came up to 1,000 feet to cross the coast and dived down again to low level to approach our target — a flying bomb site. We dropped our bombs and from observation I thought we had had a strike. Bombs were on 11-second delay so it was difficult to tell. We had the camera on our aircraft to record the result, but that is still at the bottom of the Channel.

We returned to the coast at low level and again climbed to 1,000 feet TO cross the coast, and dived down to low level on tack back to England. Time was about 3 p.m., flying into a sun low on the horizon. The sea was calm but with a three- to four-foot swell and with a glossy smoothness reflecting the sun’s rays.

We had been fired at, of course, but I don’t think we had been hit. As we headed out to sea, I was looking back to make sure that no German aircraft were following. Then it happened.

A short time after crossing the coast, the propellers hit the sea. Both props had the tips bent back about six to 12 inches which started the aircraft vibrating. We discussed what to do and ‘Snow’ Fittock decided

we’d have to go into the water.We had only seconds before we ditched

and in those moments I thought about all sorts of things about the drill we had often practised; but also recalled having been told that no one had survived a Mosquito ditching up to that time. However, I had no thoughts that we would not survive.

The actual ditching was a tremendous thump. The aircraft must have been travelling at over 300mph and the

deceleration pressed me against my Sutton harness with tremendous force. The aircraft immediately sank and water poured in. I remember swallowing water but do not recollect being thrown against any part of the aircraft and being injured. At the time, to release my harness I had great difficulty in pulling the pin because it had been bent in the deceleration process. As I struggled, I felt the pressure of water getting greater and greater as I went down with the aircraft. Eventually I got free and shot to the surface. I recall that I virtually came completely out of the water! The partly inflated Mae West probably caused this.

On the surface, I found the aircraft had completely disappeared apart from some wood chips, just the aircraft dinghy, fully inflated, and my pilot floating some distance away. I asked him if he was OK and he replied ‘Yes’.

I said that because as I was closest to the dinghy I would get in, and he indicated he would follow. At this stage I think I fully inflated my Mae West with the oxygen bottle. I also noted our lead aircraft was circling overhead. When it disappeared, I was overwhelmed by the silence and the utter loneliness.

I got into the dinghy - a difficult job with my parachute harness still on - with my personal dinghy trailing in the water. A swift inspection showed that the aircraft dinghy was fully inflated and the contents were in accordance with specifications.

Fittock got to the dinghy quickly and asked me to help him in. I attempted to do this, but as he was a big man, and with all his gear on, I did not succeed. He fell back into the water several times, and on the final occasion the toggle on his Mae West oxygen bottle punctured the dinghy and we were both in the water without an inflated dinghy.

I then had difficulty in inflating my personal dinghy until I recalled that just

a few days earlier; a new safety gadget had been put on the inflation system. When the dinghy was inflated I tried to get in, but by this time I was getting exhausted and very cold. Finally I had no strength to try further and I put my head and shoulders in the dinghy and wound my hands in the side ropes. I then lost consciousness.

I went into the sea at about 3pm and woke up in Friston Air Force hospital at about 8pm. I was told that the staff had had much difficulty in keeping me alive and bringing me to consciousness. The hospital, I guess, had been a country residence, and the room I woke up in was large with black ceiling beams with painted white panels. The windows were leaded.

The English Channel had been very cold and to revive me and keep me warm I had been given hot coffee with lots of sugar, whisky and strychnine and the bed was full of hot water bottles. I was shaking all over and felt uncomfortable, and after three days I was transferred to Eastbourne Public Hospital where I remained for two weeks.

I suffered bruising where the Sutton harness had dug in when we hit the water, I had a broken eardrum and developed pneumonia. I was very grateful to be alive but was very upset that my pilot, ‘Snow’ Fittock, was missing. We had crewed up together in Canada in July 1943 and had joined 464 Squadron in January 1944. I felt that if I had been able to get him into the dinghy he would have been saved. That still haunts me.

The pilot’s seat was very close to the windscreen and ‘Snow’ was a big man, so his head was always close to perspex canopy. I will never know if he had been injured in the ditching but I think it was likely.

When eventually I returned to the squadron, what most people wanted to know was not how it happened, but how we had managed to ditch in a Mosquito and get out of it. I imagine I was a very rare specimen to have survived a Mosquito ditching.* This article was submitted by SQNLDR Pete Reid. His uncle FGOFF Fittock lost his life in the crash.

FGOFF L.J. ‘Snow’ Fittock (left) and his navigator, W/O J. W. Hough (third from left), of 464 Sqn. ‘Kiwi’ Saunders rescued Hough on 25 April 1944, but, unfortunately, ‘Snow’ Fittock died in the crash and was left in the sea.

First published 1994ISBN 1 85260 441 7

MAYOR FAREWELLS SOLOMONS CONTINGENTWaitakere Mayor Bob Harvey, farewelled a large contingent of Territorial soldiers, off to serve in the Solomon Islands on March 28.

The group of around 30 flew out from RNZAF Base Auckland, in Waitakere City.Their duties include assisting police in the capital Honiara and being involved with

security at Rove Prison in the Solomons, which has been racked with civil unrest recently. Mayor Harvey says that he was honoured to be asked to farewell the troops, particularly those from his own City.

‘Make no mistake, these young men and women are going to a very dangerous place. But they are superbly trained and well equipped and I know they will do themselves, their families, and this country proud.’

Mayor Harvey adds that the contingent continues New Zealand’s fine tradition of bringing peace and democracy to people in the wider Pacific Region.

Mayor Harvey was joined at the Whenuapai farewell by Sir Barry Curtis, the Mayor of Manukau, and George Wood, Mayor of North Shore City.

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GSHs Dot Wilson [centre] with18 yrs service and Lorraine and Gary Pearson with 24+ yrs service and 20+ yrs service respectively in front of a RNZAF Harvard during their last week at Ohakea.

Three Base Ohakea General Service Hands (GSHs) recently retired from the Air Force with a combined service of over 62 years. The trio included husband and wife team Gary and Lorraine Pearson (20 years and 24 years service respectively) and MSS’s Dot Wilson (18 years).

They all agreed that they enjoyed working for the Air Force - especially the ‘wonderful’ people they have worked with - and seen many changes over the years. Dot Wilson says she will miss being surrounded by ‘young fellas’. ‘Mixing with all those raging hormones keeps you young,’ she said with a laugh.

Lorraine Pearson spent 22 years as an Avionics Supplier before moving onto stock holding.

Husband Gary spent 18 years as a refueller before becoming an MT driver. Prior to working for the Air Force the Pearsons spent over 20 years in farming and hope to put that experience into practise by running other people’s lifestyle blocks while they go on holiday.

Dot Wilson will also keep busy breeding Pekinese dogs, practising alternative health remedies and taking part in an oldies song and dance troupe.

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LAC Jeff Tribe, Base Auckland BandKung Hei Fat Choy! It means ‘Wishing You Prosperity’ in Cantonese – and it’s the greeting that flies around Hong Kong every New Year. It’s also a lot easier to type than pronounce!

Auckland Base Band managed to get quite a bit of linguistics practice during our six-day visit to Hong Kong. In February the Band was asked by the Hong Kong Tourism Board to participate in their Chinese New Year Celebrations. As their guests, we would have all airfares, accomodation and arrangements for the tour taken care of. How could we refuse?

Most of the celebrations take part over the three-day period that marks the Chinese Lunar New Year. 2007 is a Year of the Pig on the Chinese calendar, but local myth claims this is a Golden Year of the Pig, which only happens once every 60 years. Basically, it makes a great

excuse for throwing an even bigger party than usual!

One of the highlights of this three-day event is a night parade through the streets of Kowloon. The Band was honoured to be one of only 15 overseas groups invited to join with 25 local acts in a celebration that could honestly be described as a jaw-dropping spectacle. The Igugu Lakwa

Zulu-Natal Cultural Group from South Africa, Flamenco dancers from Spain, the NFL Arizona Cardinals Cheerleaders – just a few of the stars in a fantastic array that included martial artists, acrobats, lion dancers, dragons and incredibly ornate floats.

The theme of 2007’s parade was ‘Celebrate World Party’, and the organizers were keen for overseas and local groups to join in combined displays. So the Band joined with the 80-strong Hong Kong Police Band for choreographed performances of Latin Celebration in two special locations at the start of the route, outside the Cultural Centre. Right on the waterfront, before packed grandstands and TV cameras, with the spectacular lighting display of the Hong Kong skyline as a back drop.

And marching in the parade itself was definitely an unforgettable experience. Hong Kong has nearly 7 million people,

LEFT AND ABOVE: Colourful costumes, uniforms and floats were the order of the day when the Auckland Base Band visited for six days in Hong Kong in February to helping locals celebrate the Chinese New Year - the Golden Year of the Pig.

BELOW: Hong Kong residents packed into a 2 km stretch of downtown Kowloon! The Band played their signature tune, Those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines.

most of them living in an area the size of Auckland Central – and it seems this is the night of the year they all decide to pack in to a 2km stretch of downtown Kowloon!

The Band played their signature tune, Those Magnificent Men in Their Flying Machines and stopped for two highlight pieces along the route with the cornets out front playing Twelfth Street Rag and St Louis

Blues. But perhaps the real crowd-pleaser was a piece we had chosen especially for the occasion – Queen’s Road Hong Kong. It seems it’s Hong Kong’s equivalent to Ten Guitars, so we had the crowds singing the words as we passed.

One of the biggest cheers the Band received on the parade was when we were halted on an overpass and the RNZAF Ensign Bearer, COABW Auckland

The Band was honoured to be one of only 15

overseas groups invited to join with 25 local acts in a celebration

that could honestly be described as a jaw-dropping spectacle.

WGCDR John Cummings, broke ranks and waved the Ensign to the huge crowd in the streets below.

In the two days after the parade all the overseas groups performed two short concerts in Kowloon. These were also great experiences with the Band performances being well received by the local audiences.

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Group photograph of the Auckland Base Band after their Monday concert.

A U C K L A N D B A S E B A N D I N H O N G K O N GA U C K L A N D B A S E B A N D I N H O N G K O N G

BASE AUCKLAND BAND GOES TO HONKERS FOR THE YEAR OF THE PIG


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No.3 Squadron provided support for Exercise Northern Kiwi, a joint Territorial/Regular Forces exercise in Waiouru, during late February. Here an Iroquois lands in smoke.

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