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A WORLD CLASS ARMY THAT HAS MANA

T H R E E S E R V I C E S A S O N E F O R C E , B E I N G T H E B E S T I N E V E R Y T H I N G W E D O

INSIDEYEAR IN REVIEW 05

SOLDIER'S COURAGE 07

PASSION FOR EXCELLENCE 08/09

sgt blacklerand here's to you

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www.army.mil.nz

armynewsThe Army News is published fortnightly for the Regular and Territorial Force and civilian staff of the New Zealand Army.

Editor: Lorraine Brown phone 04-496-0225 or DTelN 349-7225 fax 04-496- 0290 email lorraine.brown@nzdf.mil.nz

Assistant Editor: Anna Norman phone 04-496-0224 or DTelN 349-7224 email anna.norman@nzdf.mil.nz

Correspondents: Linton: Faye Lougher 0274 862 428 Gary Parkes 027 212 9109Waiouru: Pete Smithies 0273 595 341Hawke's Bay: Caroline Williams 021 509 699Burnham: Alison Comrie 021 557 023

Website: www.army.mil.nzPrinting: APN Print, Hastings.design: Duncan Allan, DPRU

Editorial contributions and letters are welcomed. They may be sent direct to the Army News and do not need to be forwarded through normal command channels. Submit them to The Editor, Army News, DPRU, HQ NZDF, Private Bag 39994, Wellington, or by email with a hard copy signed with the writer’s name, rank and unit. Hard-copy submissions should be typed, double-spaced and printed on one side of the paper only.Nothing in the Army News should be taken as overriding any NZDF regulation. Readers should refer to the relevant service publication before acting on any information given in this newspaper. ISSN 1170-4411

Established 10 August 1959

02news COURAGE COMMITMENT COMRADESHIP INTEGRITY

With Christmas fast approaching and a high workload at the unit, base, and camp levels, I want to take this opportunity to tell you that your efforts are valued and appreciated – not only by me, the VCDF, and the Chief of Army, but also much more widely – by our Government and our overseas allies.

Speaking at the Defence Industry Forum last month, Defence Minister Phil Goff applauded NZDF’s efforts in promoting stability and the opportunity for development in many spots overseas. Similarly, military leaders are consistently commending our performance abroad, evidenced in October when the US Government awarded NZDF personnel medals for their service in Afghanistan. We continue to take a proactive and lead role in joint exercises with overseas counterparts, a recent example being the Bersama Padu exercise with Australian, British, Malaysian and Singaporean forces.

We are currently involved in three major deployments, and have 672 personnel in 19 missions across 15 countries, including Afghanistan, Timor-Leste and Solomon Islands. It’s your work – building trust and friendship with overseas nations and promoting trade partnerships – that helps to cement New Zealand’s reputation as a responsible international citizen.

Our servicemen and women overseas support human-itarian efforts and help ensure stability in some of the world’s most volatile areas, facilitating aid efforts, monitoring disarmament and assisting in the reconstruction of schools and other important institutions. Our ability to engage with the local people overseas has been consistently noted and I

am very proud of what NZDF personnel are achieving abroad. At home you assist communities in times of crisis and

emergency – such as the snow relief effort in the South Island in June, and in the flash flooding in the Rangitikei district in July. You have worked on various search and rescue operations and closely with other government agencies, particularly the departments of Conservation, Fisheries and Customs, and the Police. In August you farwelled Dame Te Atairangikaahu, the Maori Queen, ably assisting with preparations at her tangi at Turangawaewae Marae. This year you also formally farewelled the King of Tonga, and welcomed a new Governor General.

Working together as three services, one force, you have shown our commitment, dedication and professionalism. You should be proud of your contribution to both New Zealand and the international community.

In return for your continued efforts you can look forward to enhanced conditions of service, and the kind of equipment that will enable you to work more efficiently and effectively.

Three weeks ago the Defence Minister released the latest version of the Long Term Development Plan. It announced seven new projects; these new projects and those already well underway, will modernise the NZDF and our capabilities in the future – but these will not happen overnight.

As I congratulate you on a job well done, I also want to take the opportunity, as we enter the festive season, to wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas and a fruitful New Year.

At home, and away, you are world class

Chief of Defence Force, LT GEN Jerry Mateparae, with his Malaysian counterpart, ADM Anwar Mohamed, during the ninth annual Chief of Defence Conference held in Kuala Lumpur during November. Co-hosted by ADM Anwar and Commander US Pacific Command ADM William J Fallon, the conference enabled 24 defence chiefs to meet and discuss security challenges and cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region.

“Confidence building measures are an essential part of security considerations. One outcome is being able to pick up the phone and discuss issues with my counterparts”, said LT GEN Mateparae.

LT GEN Jerry Mateparae Chief of Defence Force

From 18 December John McKinnon will head the Ministry of Defence, a government department independent of, but inextricably linked to, the New Zealand Defence Force.

The newly-appointed Secretary of Defence says the Ministry of Defence plays a vital role in helping the Government make decisions about the Defence Force. “The job will be a fascinating challenge”, he says.

Mr McKinnon’s public service career spans 32 years, beginning when he joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in 1974. The youngest of five siblings (but only by 10 minutes; he has an identical twin brother, Malcolm), Mr McKinnon is from a family immersed in foreign policy, world affairs, politics and education.

The oldest of his three brothers, Don, is Commonwealth Secretary General; brother Ian is Pro Vice Chancellor at Victoria University; sister Kate is a teacher, and Malcolm a university lecturer and historian. Their father, MAJ GEN Walter McKinnon, finished a lengthy military career as Chief of General Staff in 1965-67.

The youngest McKinnon has made his own mark – in the 1990s he served as Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations during New Zealand’s term on the UN Security Council, before taking up the position of director of the External Assessments Bureau in the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet.

One of the most interesting periods in his career, he says, was from 2001- 2004 as New Zealand ambassador in Beijing (not his first foray into China; after spending two years in Hong Kong learning the language, he was posted to Beijing as second secretary in 1978). “China is adjusting and responding to what’s going on in the world, and at the same time it is

retaining its essential culture.” As manager of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ political and

security programme, he gained experience in defence matters, and how New Zealand’s key defence partners operate.

He says the New Zealand Defence Force is in the middle of interesting and exciting times. An extensive acquisition programme across all three services is underway, and the NZDF’s operational tempo is high. “There’s a feeling of buoyancy within Defence, and I’m keen to be part of that.”

Reported by Judith Martin

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New SecDef

Apology Chief of Defence Force LT GEN Jerry Mateparae’s rank was incorrect in the

previous issue of Army News, as was the spelling of his name. In the image on page eight, on LT GEN Mateparae’s right is Air Chief Marshall Sir Jock Stirrup, British Chief of Defence Staff, and not Chief of Air Force AVM Graeme Lintott, as published.

Army News sincerely regrets these errors. Editor

CAPT Michael Carston was awarded the Human Resource Institute of New Zealand Young HR Practitioner of the Year for 2006, which was announced in Wellington last week. The Regional Award winners will now go on to the national HRINZ Awards in February 2007.

CAPT Carston is an industrial psychologist based at Trentham Military Camp. He greatly impressed the regional judging panel for this award, which was introduced (nationally) this year to acknowledge and encourage the work of New Zealand’s emerging HR talent.

CAPT Carston’s development and implementation of a critical incident stress management response plan for the 2nd Land Force Group, was seen as an excellent example of innovation.

The Critical Incident Stress Management response plan that CAPT Carston designed was aimed to minimise the potential impact on individuals following serious incidents. This process has had an immediate and effective impact on the way the NZ Army now prepares for and responds to critical incidents.

CAPT Carston joined the New Zealand Army Training Group as an assistant psychologist in 2001, then from 2003 to 2005 he served as an organisational psychologist at 2 LFG at Linton Military Camp.

In 2003 Captain Carston also commenced work as an organisational psychologist with the Special Air Service, a role he continues to perform.

Captain honoured

CAPT Michael Carston with Keri Bloomfield, Programme Manager, HRINZ

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news03issue 369 12 December 2006

AS THE BUSY YEAR ENDS

MAJOR GENERAL LOU GARDINERCHIEF OF ARMY

In this last issue of Army News for 2006 I want to take the opportunity to thank all personnel, Regular, Territorial Force and civilian, for the effort that has gone into achieving the outputs the New Zealand Government required of the NZ Army.

During the year we have deployed forces at short notice to the Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste and Tonga, and continued to support a number of other missions in Afghanistan, the Middle East, Korean Peninsula, Bosnia, Iraq, Kosovo, Sudan and Antarctica.

Also during this time we have completed the introduction into service of the light operational vehicle (LOV) in its various variants, the medium-range, anti-armour weapon system, and the identification capability element (VACS) of the Air Defence System.

Whilst all this was being performed, the raise, train and sustain aspect of the Army was being undertaken with good success. Recruiting has continued to be very successful despite the increase in competition for high quality people due to New Zealand’s very low unemployment rate, reported as being the lowest in the OECD. This is a credit to our recruiting staff and the generally good public relations around Army activities, both operational and non-operational.

Credit must also be given to our trainers in the Army Training Group, especially those involved with Officer Cadet School and The Army Depot, who continue to produce well-trained personnel who are ready to take their place within Army units. These Army units continue to produce the outputs required of them as they juggle resources to meet the current high operational tempo whilst at the same time continue to manage the impact of the ongoing modernisation process.

I must make a special mention of the team leading and managing the Limited Volunteer Scheme. Having recently reviewed a march-out parade, I was so proud of what they achieved in a six-week period, which was clearly demonstrated in the new-found pride exhibited by the LSV graduates. Since 1993, 7,500 personnel have passed through the scheme. This is a very real direct contribution to New Zealand society by the New Zealand Defence Force.

And last but not least, my thanks are extended to all those personnel employed in Headquarters who create the environment and conditions that enable the units to prosper. All this success has been achieved due to dedicated and loyal personnel who continue to serve New Zealand honourably and loyally.

To you all I want to offer my thanks. You have done well and deserve a well-earned break over Christmas. I know you will all realise the pace is not likely to slow down next year so a good break will allow you to be reinvigorated and well prepared to tackle whatever comes up in the New Year.

I would like to conclude by offering you and your families all the best wishes for a happy and joyful Christmas and New Year on behalf of myself and the Army leadership team who have been sharing the writing of this column with me during this year.

Meri Kirihimete

The implementation of a range of initiatives that will enhance Army’s driver training regime, considered to be “second to none” in New Zealand, marks the completion of the Driver Training Review.

The Review found that the Army’s driver training regime delivered a very good standard of instruction and assessment for vehicle operators. The Army system caters to a wide range of levels – from initial driver licensing and Defence Driving Permit (DDPs) qualifications, through to continuation training and vehicles courses conducted in units.

The Army requires all of its drivers and its driver training system to comply with national driver licensing rules and provisions, and our driving instructors, assessors and testing officers are required to hold the relevant national qualifications, in addition to meeting all the required military standards.

The Driver Training Review identified specific areas requiring further investigation. Recommendations were submitted to AGS who then provided guidance on implementing initiatives that would further enhance the training regime.

Some of the initiatives required an adjustment to policy and operating procedures; others will be implemented into courses and training activities. One of the more significant initiatives is the introduction of the provisional DDP (Army) to ensure that young drivers continue to gain driving experience in a supervised environment at the completion of initial driver licensing and vehicle operators’ courses. The DDP (Army) scheme will be introduced initially as a pilot for selected students.

Other initiatives in training include:• hazard perception training, which will

incorporate peer assessment driving as well as computer-based programmes;

• insight training that will take place within a supervised and controlled environment aimed at allowing students to make judgements and decisions whilst driving;

• vehicle dynamics and manoeuvre training to practice students in skills such as cornering and braking;

• influencing attitudes and behaviours towards driving tasks;

• the theory and practice of defensive driving techniques, in particular, observation habits, hazard action plans and systems of vehicle control;

• risk and crash awareness training. Many of these initiatives are already covered in driving

courses so they will either be enhanced or applied more widely. The initiatives will be in addition to existing Army driver training programmes that are well regarded for their emphasis on supervising and assessing students on and off-road.

Initiatives will not be limited to driver training

establishments. Units will continue to review their own operating procedures for vehicles and implement improvements. Education and awareness levels are essential to ensure high standards are maintained and personnel are

afforded time to continue to gain experience and develop their knowledge and skills.

Increasingly, driving is a core skill for our soldiers and needs to be afforded the same

commitments as other core skills such as weapon handling and physical fitness. Safe and responsible attitudes and behaviours towards vehicle operation should become a part of our culture, and consequences for getting it wrong

need to be enforced. Unit driving instructors play a key

role in sustaining the required number of qualified and competent drivers, and

refresher training and workshops are being designed to assist those responsible for training

to remain current themselves. Effort will go into providing resources, policy guidance and packages for unit personnel to use when conducting continuation training.

The efforts of trainers must be complimented by all commanders through supervision – fault checking and monitoring of driving are two examples. Lastly, and most importantly, each driver must be responsible for their own driving performance every time they get behind the wheel. Like weapons, vehicles are quite safe, but will be just as lethal when used incorrectly.

Safe driving!

Driver safety paramount

SURVIVE! SLOW DOWN – Drive to the conditions and your ability.

If you are a passenger and the driver is going too fast, tell them to slow down.

WEAR YOUR SAFETY BELT – Drivers, as well as front and rear seat passengers, need to fasten safety belts every time they get into a vehicle. It should be a drill … just do it!

DRIVE SOBER – Never drink and drive! If your mates have been drinking, don’t let them get behind the wheel. If you had a hard night out, remember you may not be in a condition to drive safely the next morning.

STAY ALERT – Keep your eyes moving to check for hazards. Get plenty of rest, and if you get tired, pull over. Co-drivers and passengers, keep an eye out for your driver and watch for signs of fatigue.

CHECK TWICE AT INTERSECTIONS – Approach intersections with caution and check the way is clear, regardless of whether or not you have the right of way. Obey traffic signs and signals. STOP means stop! Double check before proceeding.

LOOK AFTER YOUR SOLDIERSAND YOUR MATES

The first issue of Army News for 2007 will be distributed Tuesday 13 February.

Deadline for submission of articles is Monday 5 February. The Army News team wishes you all a very Merry Christmas, and a bright

and prosperous New Year. See you all in 2007.

ARMY NEWS 2007

TE IHITE WEHITE MANATI HEI TUMATA UENGATI HEI MAURI ORA

I thank each and every one of you, who have worked hard and contributed to an Army that has had more than just a few small things to do this year. That is why “leadership” is the cornerstone of our profession. It is the best way of communicating, to everyone, our values and direction. All you have done this year is appreciated, and could not have been achieved without all of you, at all levels, engaging in leadership.

I cannot say if next year will be any easier but what I can say this: whatever challenges next year brings, you will stand as leaders and get the task done.

I thank your families for their support of you. Make the most of your Christmas and New Year leave break, it has been well deserved.

Nga mihi nunui ki a koutou, ka whakapai au ki a koe mo te mahi tau nei. E pai ana. Naku noa to ponongo koutou. Tariana Meiha o Tu Taua, Ngata.

Message from:WO1 Bo Ngata, SMA

To improve the process for implementing minor, non-policy dress changes within the Army, and altering the P23 “Army Orders for Dress”, the Sergeant Major of the Army has introduced a procedure that allows all soldiers to suggest improvements through their unit RSM.

Historically, proposed amendments were held until the bi-annual meeting of the Army Dress Committee. The revised process will be quicker.

The process (see graph) allows command comment to be made, and ensures all suggestions reach the Sergeant Major of the Army.

All suggestions will be acknowledged and soldiers will be informed of the outcome. If the suggestion is not implemented, the soldier will be told why.

Your challenge is: if it is “not right”, let your RSM know.

If the dress is not right

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04news SERVING NEW ZEALAND LOYALLY AND HONOURABLY

New Zealand’s UN contingent to Timor-Leste is now up to full company strength, after Chalk 2 troops flew out from Ohakea at the end of November.

The party of 37 tops up Chalk 1 – the main contingent of 150 soldiers and airmen who flew out earlier in the month. Chalk 1 and 2 form the second rotation to Timor-Leste; serving alongside Australian troops, they will ensure Timor-Leste remains secure in the lead-up to its elections.

While Chalk 1 troops were treated to a sizzling display by the RNZAF Red Checkers aerobatic team as part of their farewell, Chalk 2 settled for a brace of Aermachii trainers being test run on circuits.

It was a touching moment when deployment services officer Janine Burton handed over a “family banner” – a large flag bearing hand-written messages from family members.

In his speech to to those gathered, Land Component Commander Brigadier Phil Gibbons said they had trained well, prepared well, and he knew they would do a good job.

BRIG Gibbons challenged the troops to rise to the goal of performing as a world-class army that has mana. “Above all, look after yourselves and look after your mates”, he counselled.

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Principal Army Chaplain Don Parker sends Chalk 2 troops forth with a blessing

When 150 troops flew out of RNZAF Base Ohakea recently, two new milestones were marked by the 1st Battalion, RNZIR.

The contingent was the second rotation to Timor-Leste, overseeing the country’s democratic elections – only the second elections ever held. It is led by Lieutenant Colonel Kent Collard.

Contingent company commander, Major Bill Keelan, said it was the first deployment of a 1 RNZIR sub-unit since it received the NZLAVs and its first deployment of a dismounted cavalry unit.

He said the contingent is based on Victor Coy, with attachments from 2 Logistics Battalion, 2 Health Support Battalion and the RNZAF, and including Padre Darren O’Callaghan. They will be working alongside some 930 Australian troops as part of a United Nations security operation.

“Basically, our job is to provide a safe and secure environment so the Timorese can make up their own minds about who they want to govern their country”, said

MAJ Keelan.Joint Forces Commander, Rear Admiral Jack Steer was

among the large gathering of friends and relations to see the contingent off. “They’ve trained long and hard to do the job they’ve trained for”, he told the supporters. “They will be away having fun, while you do the work at home and support them. Without that support, the Defence Force is nothing.”

To the contingent personnel: “Your job is to provide an environment where the people can find a way ahead. I am confident you will do that well.”

Prior to delivering his formal farewell, RA Steer mingled with some of the departing troops. Among those he spoke to was SGT Dave Thomas and his wife, Nikola and daughter, Ella (9 months). Formerly an Australian infantryman, SGT Thomas was one of three Victor Coy soldiers injured in an explosion at Waiouru in May this year.

The contingent was farewelled with prayers by Padre Darren O’Callaghan, and Principal Army Chaplain Don Parker.

Reported by Gary Parkes

1 RNZIR to Timor

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PTE Manutai with his two boys Fetu (9) and Max (12) TPR Wealleans, with father Mike and grandmother Sheila

A special memento from home is this “family banner”, signed by relations of those deployed. It is blessed by Principal Army Chaplain Don Parker prior to being handed to Chalk 2 troops prior to departure for Darwin and Dili. L-R: Pauline Stewart (Taumarunui) and Amelia Kereopa (Raglan) respectively grand-aunt and grandmother of contingent member PTE Richard Norris; CAPT Brent Smith, OIC 2 LFG Deployment Training Cell; and Deployment Services Officer Janine Burton, who presented the banner, and whose son, LCPL Daniel Burton, flew out to Timor-Leste the previous week.

“If nothing else, I’ll teach them how to tackle”, says PTE Matthew Wade (R), relaxing with PTE Adam O’Connor prior to boarding their flight to Timor-Leste, where they will remain for six months. They are in the same platoon within 1 RNZIR and this is their first overseas deployment.

We’ll miss you The NZ Army was well represented at this year’s Big Boys’ Toys Expo, held

in early November at the ASB Showgrounds in Auckland. The annual event showcases careers, products and services targeted at a typical Kiwi teenager.

With just over 54,000 visitors attending the expo, it is the largest recruiting event of the year and staff were kept extremely busy providing recruiting information and showing off about their trade and equipment. Northern Region Recruiting (NRR) headed Army’s involvement, with 1 RNZIR, 16 Field Regiment, 2 Workshop Company and the School of Military Engineering providing manpower and equipment.

The Army’s display was designed to give the general public an idea of the many trade options available to Regular Force and Territorial Force personnel, and to show off some of our capabilities. People were able to talk to soldiers about life in the Army, and their roles in New Zealand or overseas.

A highlight of the expo was a capability demonstration where a NZLAV and dismounts from W-Coy, 1 RNZIR, assaulted an enemy bunker in front of a huge audience.

As expected, interest in the stand was huge; at times it was standing room only, with some staff working 12-hour shifts.

NRR appreciates the support of the units, and the hard work of those individuals who worked tirelessly to ensure the expo was successful.

Contributed by SGT Jodie Cole

CAPT John Cook talks about Army life CPL Nick Wyatt demonstrates equipment

GNR Cobra Makea with a potential young recruit

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Army draws crowd at BBT

For the last six weeks I have been deployed to Bosnia as a member of the Kiwi Liaison and Observation Team. Typically our patrol, consisting of a liaison officer, an interpreter, and myself, will conduct meetings with various members of the public. We cover a predominantly ethnic Serb area; however, there are also some prominent Croat and Islamic communities.

Previous New Zealand teams have developed a good rapport with the locals, making our job of a lot easier. This seems to be the case no matter where NZ soldiers work. My experiences thus far have all been good. Our patrol covers a particularly large area (approximately 800 square kilometres); this means that there are always new places to visit and new people to meet. Despite tension between the different ethnic groups the people that we meet are always hospitable. They are generally poor, yet we often find ourselves having to refuse their constant offers of food and drink. It is also humbling to visit some of the more remote villages and witness first-hand their poor living conditions. Many locals may possess only the most basic necessities but are still positive, despite the damage still apparent from the war.

Having seen the sights and how different people are living makes me appreciate what we have in New Zealand. Some of the sights are amazing; it’s hard to believe that there could ever have been a conflict in such a beautiful country.

With the festive season approaching, we have already been invited to a number of celebrations. These include an Islamic celebration in the town of Kozarac and a Serbian Orthodox Christmas in Ostra Luka. This will fill the void of not being able to spend this time with friends and family back in New Zealand.

Contributed by SGT Marcus Tibble

Chalk 2 to Timor-Leste

White Christmas coming in Bosnia

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SGT Tibble (L) and his Patrol Leader LT Dave Mortimer (R) meeting with a local

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news05issue 369 12 December 2006

At the end of 2005, 1 RNZIR took a well-deserved breath and reflected on what had been achieved during the previous two years. During that time the unit had transformed from a light infantry organisation to an agile, capable cavalry organisation with state of the art equipment and sensors. In December 2005, Chief of Army announced that 1 RNZIR had achieved DLOC, the directed level of capability required by the government. This was a tribute to the hard work, motivation and professionalism of all unit members.

As the battalion looked ahead to 2006, we were under no illusions that another busy and exacting year lay ahead. As we come to the end of this year we can reflect with enormous pride, that we have had a very demanding and operationally focused year as a battalion. We currently have our second rotation of troops deployed to Afghanistan, along with a platoon coming to the end of their tour of duty in the Solomon Islands. Also Victor Company recently deployed as dismounted cavalry, once more on operations, and this time repeating our own history by deploying back into Dili for operations in Timor. The unit also has personnel serving on other missions in Afghanistan, Israel/Lebanon and the Sinai. It is hard to find a more operationally demanding period in our 49 years of history as a battalion. Currently this realises 60 percent of the units posted strength either deployed, or recently returned, to New Zealand from operations.

As 1 RNZIR looks forward to its 50th year of regimental service, the unit will take a well-deserved break, and in the New Year will continue to train our personnel to deploy on operations. We also continue the modernisation process and in particular look to build on the work done so far with 5 Sqn RNZAF. This will continue 1 RNZIR’s hard-earned and proud history of operational service from 1957-2007.

Finally, mention must go to the partners and families who have supported us all, thank you.

Onward.MAJ Jeff Howe

1 RNZIR – hard-earned and proud history

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NZLAV returning from a live firing activity

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2006 has been an exciting year for the AATC. Two additional instructors have been recruited, and there are plans underfoot for considerable change in the centre’s focus in coming years.

The Army Transformation Plan includes an enhanced focus on leadership development at all levels and, early in 2006, the Deputy Chief of Army initiated a planning process that will, in time, see the AATC change its role to become a sole, integral component of the new leadership development programme.

Considerable planning has already been undertaken by the staff at the AATC, and the first tangible demonstration of this new focus will be seen in March 2007 when many of the Army’s senior leaders (officers and warrant officers) will participate in an extremely challenging exercise that is aimed at reinforcing the Army’s core values.

The AATC’s new programme will include traditional activities such as kayaking, mountaineering and rock climbing, plus a range of longer and more challenging activities such as expeditions and adventure racing. Irrespective of the nature of the activity, there will remain a strong and robust focus on the Army’s core values, plus key competencies drawn from the NZDF Competency Framework. Key amongst these are drive and stress tolerance, managing own learning and development, displaying a positive outlook, operating as an effective team member and making decisions.

Amidst all the planning and conduct of programmed activities, staff at the centre have still made a strong effort to embrace additional challenges. Four staff members competed in the inaugural Oxfam 100km challenge and emerged as the fastest New Zealand team, having to run side by side for 100km. SSGT Andy Cole successfully

completed a short-notice deployment to the Antarctic in support of a scientific programme, and PTE Andrew Kingdon participated in a very successful rock climbing expedition to Thailand, organised and conducted by NZ Army junior ranks, a first in the NZ Army’s history.

Major Rob Hoult

PTE Andrew Kingdon working a 6b in Thailand

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AATC – planning for the future

3 LFG – Home of light operations. Light, ready, responsive.More than 500 personnel deployed at various times on 21 operations

in 2006, equating to more than 60 percent of the formation. Operations included Afghanistan, Sinai, Antarctica, Korea and Kosovo.

Responsive: Timor-Leste in 24 hours; Solomon Islands in 12 hours; Tonga in 8 hours; plus civil defence assistance: the West Coast floods; Dunedin floods; Canterbury snow storms; and assistance to police on the West Coast.

Ready: Ready for contingencies. Pre-deployment training conducted for two deployments to Afghanistan and two to the Solomon Islands.

Agile: We surged to Solomon Islands from an exercise in New Caledonia; we embrace uncertainty as ground truth in short-response operations.

Audacious: The Territorial Force (2 Cant NMWC and 4 O South) stepped up to operations in the Solomon Islands.

Adaptable: Modular, task-organised joint and multi-national force packages. We have worked under command of Australia in the Solomon Islands and Timor-Leste, and Australia has worked under command of us in

Tonga – and we always work alongside our Pacific Island friends. Austere: Done with what we’ve got, on decreased manning, but only

through the efforts of the headquarters and support staff, 3rd Logistic Battalion and the goodwill and grace of our families. And short-response operations will always be conducted in a void of information.

And: Annual Field Exercise; Exercise Azam Bersama; Exercise Taiaha Tombak; Exercise Croix du Sud; Exercise Takrouna, plus individual and unit training, but not to a level we would have liked.

And: 640 Limited Service Volunteer graduates; Youth Life Skills graduates; Defence Academy graduates.

And: Our camp facilities and services continue to be maintained in a resource constrained environment, due to the continuity provided by our civilian staff.

Well done; enjoy your Christmas as it’s a time for families and an opportunity to recharge. May it be quiet. The future is uncertain and steady state 2007 is likely to be similar to steady state 2006.

WO1 Malcolm Dean

3 LFG –steady state

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Troops from the 2 Cant NMWC Bn Gp debuss from NZLAV

W Coy range practice

The operational tempo of the Army has increased markedly over the last few years and, as a result, so has the training tempo of the Army Training Group (ATG). In January, the training year began with the officer cadets marching in, followed closely by the first of five All Arms Recruit Courses (AARC) – Waiouru had over 500 personnel in camp in February. This tempo does not ease until Christmas when the last AARC and OCS march out.

Currently, ATG still has over 400 personnel under training, which is slightly above the weekly average of 350. The Land Operations Training Centre (LOTC) accounts for a good proportion of this figure. The demands on ATG instructors are high; however, their professionalism and competence serve the Army well.

In total, LOTC and the Transition Training Team (delivering NZLAV, Javelin and LOV) trained 2,266 personnel on no less than 247 courses – that is, on average, 20 courses per school. The Army Depot (TAD) trained 470 RF recruits, 316 WOs and NCOs and 314 TF recruits. OCS graduated 69 officers.

ATG has been responsible for the introduction of new training concepts and equipment, commencing with Close

Quarter Battle (CQB) training in January. To date the Army has trained nearly 1,400 personnel in CQB and will have 10 CQB instructors by Christmas.

The 22-week Enhanced Basic was conducted at TAD and turned out 31 well-socialised and well-trained recruits, who can each take their place in any Army section and make a positive contribution to its force protection. It is hoped the pilots’ success will be repeated with two platoons in 2007.

The arrival of Javelin in June 2006 marked the reintro-duction of a “real” medium-range anti-armour weapon; the Javelin is considered to be the best MRAAW available. So far, nine Javelin commanders and 15 operators have been trained. The ISS of LAV is complete and the TTT were awarded a CA’s commendation for outstanding achievement. The NZLAV and Javelin wings of TTT will amalgamate with the Combat School this month.

2006 has been a very busy year for ATG and the outputs achieved by the respective training establishments reflect the personal commitment and professionalism of the staff. We are proud of our achievements and look forward to another year of “providing the foundation for the NZ Army”.

LT COL Steve Guiney

ATG – foundation of NZ Army

cmykcmyk

Congratulations to the following personnel on their recent promotion:

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stepping up

06our people COURAGE COMMITMENT COMRADESHIP INTEGRITY

TTT commended

CA presented his Chief of Army’s commendation to the Transition Training Team for introducing the NZLAV into service, from December 2002 to December 2006.

CA also spoke to students completing the NZLAV Crew Commanders Course in Waiouru. The top student on this course, Corporal George Alexander RNZLAR, AFV Wksp, 2 Log Bn, was awarded the Harry Taylor 2nd NZ Div Cav Association top student award. He was the first RNZLAR recipient of an NZLAV Top Student award.

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Accepting the award from MAJ GEN Lou Gardiner on behalf of all TTT staff is Chief Instructor MAJ Sholto Stephens

CA discusses the attributes of the NZLAV with members of the the 2nd NZ Div Cav Association, Mr Bob Scott, Secretary of the association (centre), and Mr Ken Yealands, Patron of the association

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During a recent visit to Burnham Military Camp, Chief of Army Major General Lou Gardiner presented the Chief of Army commendations to two recipients from 2/1 RNZIR: Captain Phil Halligan, RNZNC, and Sergeant Craig Moffatt, RNZALR.

CAPT Phil Halligan received the award for his proficient management of the 2/1 RNZIR Regimental Aid Post. Since his posting to the battalion in 2002, CAPT Halligan has proactively identified the battalion’s medical training needs, and his expert advice on medical issues has quickly earned him the total confidence of all personnel within the battalion. Despite constant time constraints, CAPT Halligan retained complete control of all medical preparations, and displays high professional standards and outstanding leadership qualities.

SGT Craig Moffatt was responsible for the preparation of stores, equipment and weapons for a short-notice deployment to the Solomon Islands from 19 – 22 April. Acting under extreme time constraints in difficult and trying conditions, SGT Moffatt, on his own initiative, developed and executed detailed plans to enable the rapid deployment of personnel, stores and equipment on operations. These procedures ensured that the battalion remained well positioned for the short-notice mobilisation to East Timor, some 10 days later. SGT Moffatt’s actions clearly demonstrated the highest of professional standards, earning him the respect and admiration of his peers and superiors alike.

CA salutes two at Burnham

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CA congratulates CAPT Phil Halligan CA congratulates SGT Craig Moffatt

A recent morning tea at the Burnham Military Camp Officers Mess took on a more elevated position when Land Component Commander Brigadier Phil Gibbons, who was visiting Burnham Camp, and Colonel Dave Gawn, Commander 3 LFG, conducted a commissioning from the ranks (CFR) ceremony for Staff Sergeant “Toots” Talauta, who was promoted to Lieutenant.

LT Talauta was recently posted to the Burnham Administration Centre (BAC) as its second in command. No stranger to Burnham, he has enjoyed previous postings from his recruitment in 1987 to 1994 at 2/1 RNZIR, at the Canterbury NMWC Bn Gp from 1994-1997 and from 1999 to 2001, at the BAC as an administrator. He has also served as an Army recruiter based at Tauranga from 1997-1999, was in East Timor from 2001 to 2003, and most recently was an instructor at the School of Administration, Waiouru, from 2003 to now. An added joy for LT Talauta was the recent birth of his daughter, Stella.

Commissioned by high command

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LCPL Weston and CPL Alexander listen intently as the CA discusses his expectations of NZLAV crew

A discreet smile of satisfaction from the newly promoted LT “Toots” Talauta as his new rank slides are placed on his uniform by COL Gawn (L) and BRIG Gibbons (R)

Mentoring our stewards

During the last six months, Trentham stewards, military and civilian, have been taking part in staff training afternoons. Run by senior tradespeople based in Trentham, the training sessions included how to assess wine, how to make cocktails, how to identify spirits and advanced gueridon dishes.

At the end of the six-month period, a trade competition was held to test what had been taught. Designed and judged by SGT Steven Green and LCPL Josh Comerford, the competition comprised many disciplines, and included a theory test, wine and spirit identification, cocktails and a restaurant phase.

Each competitor was marked on their professionalism, method and technical skills for each discipline, and there were some very pleasing results. Top honours went to Mr Jamie Stuart, followed closely by PTE Aroha Maidens.

This exercise was designed to keep the staff training and knowledge in line with the outside restaurant service industry.

Contributed by LCPL Josh Comerford

PTE Teyn Makara flambés hiscrepes suzette

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cmykcmyk

our people07issue 369 12 December 2006

Linton Military Camp and the surrounding community turned out in force on the first weekend of December to support physical training instructor Sergeant Nathan Blackler.

SGT Blackler has terminal cancer, and a huge fundraising drive has been underway during the past few months to provide grants for the future tertiary education of his two children.

In October the Blackler family – Nathan, wife Sally, 15-year-old Hemi and 11- year-old Aniwa – was presented with the trip of a lifetime, a 10-day holiday on the Gold Coast of Australia. SGT Blackler said the trip was “really awesome” and he enjoyed being able to spend some quality time with his family before his illness prevented him doing so. “It was tiring but we returned with lots of memories and photos, especially on the rides. We did lots of shopping too – well, the wife did!”

At the time, SGT Blackler said he was humbled by the support the Army had offered his family – but he had no idea what else they had planned.

At 1.00pm on Friday, 1 December, Blackball Weekend began, with the first relay runners in a 24-hour relay taking to the track. Twenty-six teams, made up of a minimum of 24 runners, ran around the 800m track continuously for 24 hours.

The teams competing came from as far away as Waiouru, Ohakea, and Trentham, and also included teams from the Palmerston North City Council, the Palmerston North Public Library, and the NZ Police.

Palmerston North’s Member of Parliament, the Honourable Steve Maharey, and the Mayor of Palmerston North, Heather Tanguay, also participated, while Chief of Army Major General Lou Gardiner and Land Component Commander Brigadier Phil Gibbons used the time to notch up RFLs. It would be unwise to disclose who ran the faster time but there was only one second between them at the finish line, according to witnesses.

On the Saturday there were corporate team-building activities and children’s rides, as well as a Linton Community Families Day and a monster garage sale, all with the aim of raising $10,000 towards the fundraising appeal. The final tally was in excess of $19,000, and donations are still coming in.

WO2 Kelvin McMillan said two teams in particular contributed a significant amount to the total – the Waiouru team managed by Toots Brown, which raised $3,052, and the HQ 2 LFG team, which raised

$2,341.60.SGT Blackler said the fundraising efforts were overwhelming. “I just

wanted to leave quietly so it’s quite awkward, but the guys are like a dog with a bone!

“It’s been awesome; my family will have very good fond memories of the Army forever. Seeing everybody come together like a big family – how many employers do this? I’m just blown away, it’s just amazing. What can I say but thank you.”

SGT Blackler said he wanted to thank his corps members and his workmates, particularly WO2 McMillan.

“I’d also like to thank my wife, my beautiful wife, and my family. I honestly don’t think I deserve this, I’m the average Joe Bloggs and if they were in the same position they would do what I’ve done, so I don’t know, it’s quite overwhelming. It’s not just a job, it’s a whanau. They

have given my family memories they will have forever.”

SGT Blackler joked that although he may not be here next year, he would like to see this become an annual event. He also had some parting words for those who had come to support him.

“Don’t settle for average, strive for the best you can be. If you can tell yourself you’ve done 100 percent, that’s great, just don’t settle for average.”

Donated goods worth $13,500 were given away as spot prizes during the relay and two of the Blackler family

were lucky winners, with Sally receiving a $75 Lone Star voucher and Aniwa a

$50 shoe clinic voucher. Other spot prizes included a colour television set, a hard-drive DVD recorder, power tools and jewellery.

The team that ran the most laps during the relay was the School of Military Engineering’s Chang Chang’s Crusaders, with a staggering 483 laps – roughly three-minute laps for the entire relay. For their efforts, the SME team picked up Commander 2 LFG’s top prize for the competition – five days’ stand down.

2nd Workshop Company’s Horse Powers team were only 11 laps behind them, with 472 laps, and Whisky Company’s Whisky Harriers came in third with 445 laps.

The top invitational team was the Air Force Ohakea team, with 376 laps. The top civilian team was Palmerston North City Council’s “Are We There Yet?” with 210 laps. The Hard Yards Award was given to HQ 2 Engineer Regiment’s Team Sapper Inc, which racked up 201 laps while in full military gear and carrying packs.

Colonel Lofty Hayward, Commander 2 LFG, was very pleased with the

event. “There were so many highlights”, he said. “The generosity of Palmerston North, the keen competition between all ranks and teams, the atmosphere that was generated by a truly worthwhile cause, and the willingness of everyone to give a bit of themselves was incredible.

“At a time of high operational tempo, with soldiers departing and returning to New Zealand at a rapid rate of knots, it was great that we were able to organise and run the relay on such short notice. 1 RNZIR have got about 300 soldiers either away from home or just recently returned from overseas at the moment, yet they were still able to put in two teams. Similarly, 16 Fd Regt who are starting to prepare for the next Afghanistan deployment and had other soldiers away on Exercise Steel Talon, entered three teams.

“It was a great effort by all those who participated or contributed in some way, and it was a great way to finish out what has been a hectic and challenging year. It was our way of doing something for one of our own.”

Reported by Faye Lougher and COL Lofty Hayward

Whanau rallies, for one of our own

SGT Nathan Blackler thanks everyone for taking part in the fundraising

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The Blackler family: Hemi, Nathan, Aniwa and Sally

From start to finish the fundraising event was a great success

SGT Blackler takes a break

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10news

“It is important to acknowledge the work of the staff involved in the development of this new course”, said the Deputy Chief of Army, Brigadier Barry Vryenhoek, at the march out parade of AARC 338 Judson VC Platoon, in Waiouru.

“This course was only initiated in March 2005”, he said. “The staff, and in particular the NCOs of AARC 338, have worked hard to ensure its success.”

BRIG Vryenhoek told those graduating from this

pilot 22-week course that despite their enhanced training, this was just the beginning of their long journey. “You will have increasing responsibilities”, he said, “initially as followers, and as fellow members of small teams, and then as leaders.”

Waiouru locals were delighted when the Top Recruit Award went to SIG Tahu King, RNZ Sigs, the son of Trevor and Hine King and a former student of Taihape Area School.

Reported by John Archer

Sergeant Major of the Army Award:SPR GS Killeen RNZETop Shot Trophy:SPR TC MacKenzie RNZEBDR Alex MacDonald Memorial Trophy:CPL PE Witchall RNZIR, who commanded the section that won the skill at arms competition Most Improved Recruit:SPR BM Treanor RNZE

AwardsThe Enhanced Basic team leader, Lieutenant Colonel Steve Guiney, is pleased with the results of the pilot 22-week course. Not only did the recruits gain enhanced skills, but they appeared to have an enhanced esprit de corps, one of the key aims of the course.

“We hope that a by-product of this course will be a greater commitment to the organisation, and an improved retention rate”, LT COL Guiney said after the parade.

There was likely to be a second pilot of the Enhanced Basic, involving two platoons, in June 2007. In 2008, all new recruits into the Army will complete the Enhanced Basic.

During the course some areas of course planning

and training needed review, but apart from a few minor changes the course concept will remain unchanged overall. A full review of the course will be completed by HQ ATG before Christmas.

Corporal Philip Witchall, RNZIR, a section commander on the course, likened changes in future courses to minor alterations in the design of the houses in Waiouru’s pilot housing project. “We have built a house”, said CPL Witchell. “In future houses we may have to make some rooms bigger and others smaller, but the basic design is sound, and we look forward to it becoming the normal AARC.”

Reported by John Archer

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Enhanced Basic marches out …

… and here to stay

Top Recruit Tahu King, and other members of Judson VC give expression to their platoon’s esprit de corps during the haka at the close of the march out parade

BRIG Vryenhoek gets a smile from two recruits during his inspection

WO1 Lenny Wills, incoming RSM of 6 Hauraki Bn Gp, with his son, SPR Kane Wills, RNZE, and other family

SPR GS Killeen, RNZE, receives the Sergeant Major of the Army Award from WO1 Bo Ngata

SIG TW King, RNZ Sigs, receives the Top Recruit award from BRIG Vryenhoek

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Queen Alexandra’s Mounted Rifles (QAMR) recently completed their end-of-year exercise, Sabres’ Thrust. The exercise is directed towards NZLAV cavalry troop-level operations, and focuses on the wide spectrum of tasks – from observation posts, convoy escorts, vital asset protection, to sector and route searches and route reconnaissance – that cavalry troops can undertake.

The exercise’s scenario was set in escalating insurgency operations. It began in the Tekapo training area, before heading north through Lake Heron, Glenfalloch Station, the Waimakariri River, and concluding at Burnham Military Camp.

Sabres’ Thrust was an opportunity for NZLAV crews to gauge their development since relocating from Waiouru 18 months ago. They were independently assessed by Major Sholto Stephens, Chief Instructor of the Transition Training Team.

The exercise also enabled the Squadron Headquarters to deploy, set up a command post and deploy an A1

echelon, with the aid of 3rd Logistics Battalion. The exercise was invaluable, providing QAMR with a

benchmark from which to continue its development into 2007.

Special thanks must go to all the landowners who permitted QAMR to exercise on their land, Tekapo staff for assisting with obtaining land clearances and liaising with landowners, 3 Log Bn for rounding out Support Troop, and the Burnham MTC for providing a medic.

2006 has been a busy year for the unit. The Squadron Commander, MAJ Murray Brown said, “It is very satisfying to see how far the crews have come and the spirit that is within the troop. As always, there is still plenty to work on, but I am very happy with the results of the exercise, bearing in mind it complements a lot of other training.”

QAMR continues to adapt to the busy environment found in all Army units. As the results from Sabres’ Thrust show, the development and growth of QAMR is assured.

Contributed by LT Brent Quin

Gauging progress

SGT Kleener is using the remote operating unit (ROU) which can control both the self-recovery winch and the main winch

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CorrectionThank you to those of you who took the time to write in, and yes you are correct. The first line of Laurence

Binyon’s poem should read “They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old”. Well spotted!

COURAGE COMMITMENT COMRADESHIP INTEGRITY

Crew Commander of 11C, LCPL Kurt Nissen, cheerfully prepares for a recovery having been tasked with getting stuck to test out QAMR’s NZLAV recovery vehicle

cmykcmyk

news11issue 369 12 December 2006

We have come to the end of Movember, and have had a great deal of fun in the process. Here is the “after” shot.

We managed to raise $270 in total.I put a little spin on the collection of sponsorship.

Instead of asking people to sponsor us, I ran a book on who would have the best Mo come 30 November. So there was a lot of competition within the BAC to get the most bets. I had set aside 20 percent of the total sponsorship as a prize pot, to be split between all those who bet on the eventual winner (which incidentally was me!).

This equated rather conveniently into “evens” odds. I decided to personally fund the winnings pot so that all money collected will go to charity, so hopefully most people will be happy to forego their winnings and donate it back (to save my pocket!).

CPL Deans had been confident, or should I say cocky, all the way through – but maturity (not old age!) shone

through. Better luck next time Dino!CPL Marshall – by either still being half asleep, or so

attentive to the DFOs, kept starting to shave his off – so had to then go the whole hog and take it all off.

As for PTE Frodo, his had a very slow start, but did come with a late flourish – however, it was a cross between blonde and ginger so on judging day he put mascara on it. Instant disqualification I felt – but 10/10 for trying!

PTE Hoeflich isn’t going to shave his off (what there is of it). He needs a head start on next year’s event.

PTE Willets raised the most sponsorship with $65; however,

$40 of that was from his family, which has caused uproar with CPL Deans – Dino, get over it, you didn’t win!

SGT Buchanan only raised $5.00, but did have a better offer which he should have taken – his wife offered to sponsor him $20.00 to shave it off.

Contributed by CPL Christopher Page

Mo’s from the ranks

WN 06-0324-01 (before shot) and “BAC - Movember Judging” (after shot) in Movember/Mr Movember

The culmination of 10 weeks’ training was a march-out parade of the Regular Force All Arms Junior Non-Commissioned Officer Promotion Course at Linton.

The course is designed to develop the leadership, regimental and instructional knowledge, skills and attitudes required of a junior non-commissioned officer. These areas include leadership, planning, communication skills, instruction, operational doctrine, concepts and training.

The reviewing officer for the parade was Lieutenant Colonel Mike Shapland, Commanding Officer of 2 Logistics Battalion. He said the responsibility was an honour.

“The difference between a trained and an untrained soldier is the ability to keep your hat on under all conditions and you can take this from

that analogy: don’t undervalue the role you play in today’s Army. Don’t undervalue the power and the contribution you bring to the Army. You people are paramount in the role we perform throughout New Zealand and overseas. You people are course-qualified NCOs.

“It’s important you do go out there and do your job and lead the young soldiers. I don’t believe it’s an easy job. Look at the values and the ethos of the New Zealand Army and what we are trying to achieve.”

LT COL Shapland said there were a number of challenges ahead for 2 Log Bn.

“I’ve seen the calendar for next year [and it looks busy]. We’re going to drive the training and get people ready. You people are all paramount in ensuring we in Linton Camp do meet

those challenges.”Awards2nd Regional Training Wing Regimental Award:

Lance Corporal Torin Ruawhare, 1 RNZIR. LCPL Ruawhare also received the 2nd Regional Training Wing Leadership Award.

2nd Regional Training Wing Ceremonial Award was awarded to Three Syndicate, and was accepted by guard 2IC Lance Corporal Nicholas Pomee, RNZ Sigs.

2nd Regional Training Wing Peers Award was awarded to Lance Corporal Amy Jeffers.

2nd Regional Training Wing Top Student Award was presented to Lance Corporal Leon Tawhara, 1 RNZIR.

Reported by Faye Lougher

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New leaders march out

CPL Leon Tawhara receives Top Student Award from LT COL Mike Shapland

LT COL Mike Shapland and SSGT Shane Boyce review the Junior NCO march out parade

Junior NCOs march out at Linton

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Other mo’s worth a mention

CAPT Emmett Gracie LT Erik Fraser CAPT Steve Kearney CAPT Mike Carston CAPT Andy Warden CAPT Matt Perano CAPT Shannon Stallard CPL Mark Sadgrove LT COL Mike Shatford

Before...

...and after

The Boys from Burnham Camp Movember team. Back: LCPL Arron Raymond, CPL Christopher Page, CPL Karwin Deans, PTE Cole Willetts, SGT Todd Buchanan. Front: CPL Evan Marshall, PTE Aaron Hoeflich, PTE Frodo Adamski

cmykcmyk

SERVING NEW ZEALAND LOYALLY AND HONOURABLY12NEWS

Top Gun wannabes, hairy netballers and blokes in fetching pink bandanas were just some of the 200 participants at Trentham Military Camp’s Village Green games in Lower Hutt recently.

Units from across the Wellington region clashed in the fiercely contested games, with 18 teams vying to prove their skills at ten-pin bowling, indoor netball, handball, dodge ball, volleyball, non-stop cricket, Danish longball and Pictionary.

Held indoors at Petone Indoor Sports Centre and Bowland, the competition doubled as a thank you to participants for a year of hard work, and as a sports prize giving.

The Village Green competition was won by the “Joint Kiwi” team from Headquarters Joint Forces New Zealand (HQ JFNZ);

however, the big winner on the day was Trentham Regional Support Battalion who took out the Lunchtime Sports Trophy and the Trentham Camp Command Trophy. Their rivals, Trade Training School, won the Wednesday Afternoon Sports Trophy.

The title of Wellington Regional Sportsperson of 2006 went to LWTR Rangitekohe Stark of HQ JFNZ, ending an impressive year in which he also won the Command Trophy for HQ JFNZ.

This was the final Trentham Village Green for organiser SSGT Don Mohr, who described the event as a great success. “It’s been a fantastic opportunity for officers and soldiers to work together, and everyone had a really good time.”

Reported by Charlotte Lee-Smith

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Pink bandanas at Village Green

A memorial to recognise the long history between the Waikato region and the Royal New Zealand Artillery (RNZA) was unveiled in Hamilton recently.

The unveiling ceremony, at Memorial Park, commenced with a parade of ex-RNZA gunners accompanied by the RNZA Band. It was attended by New Zealand Defence Force personnel and his Excellency the Governor General of New Zealand, the Right Honorable Anand Satyanand, who unveiled a 5.5-inch gun which will serve as a memorial to the Waikato gunners.

The 5.5-inch gun was purchased from the Army Museum in Waiouru and was donated for use as a memorial by retired Battery Commander Hugh Vercoe, who is also Mayor of the Matamata-Piako District.

RNZA Colonel Commandant, Brigadier (retired) Graham Birch, presented the gun to the Hamilton City. He said, “Although the Waikato Territorial Force artillery units were never deployed overseas as a unit, gunners from these units served with distinction during the First and Second World Wars, and later in Korea and Vietnam.

“The gunners have a long history in the Waikato region and I am proud to present the gun to Hamilton City to ensure that we have this important reminder of those who served this region and our country.”

Mr Satyanand said that the unveiling was a timely reminder, especially in the Year of the Veteran, of the important contribution made by those who served our country.

The Waikato has been served by an artillery battery or regiment since 1911. With the onset of World War 1, some members of G Battery went overseas with the main body of the Expeditionary Force and fought at Gallipoli, France and Belgium.

During WWII many of the local gunners served with distinction in the Middle East, Italy and the Pacific.

In the post war re-organisation of the Territorial Force in 1948, 4 Medium Regiment was located in Hamilton. During this period the regiment thrived, particularly after receiving 16 x 5.5 guns in 1951. At its peak the regiment’s strength exceeded 1,100 personnel drawing volunteers from Hamilton, Te Awamutu, Otorohanga, Te Kuiti, Cambridge, Matamata, Morrinsville, Ngaruawahia and Huntly. With the termination of compulsory military training in 1957, the regiment reduced in numbers, becoming 4 Medium Battery in 1961.

In 1994 (G) Medium Battery amalgamated with 11 (A) Battery in Auckland to form 11/4 Battery, becoming a branch of 3 Auckland and Northland Battalion Group.

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Gunners remembered

RNZA Colonel Commandant BRIG Graham Birch addressing the dedication service

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Staff Sergeant Les Clarke said selecting the top student of the recent intermediate fire fighting course wasn’t an easy task.

“It was very, very hard to pick the top student”, he said. “There were four top after the Christchurch training so we looked at everybody and kept coming back to the one student, Aircraftsman Mike Crisford.”

The intermediate course was seven weeks' long and covered structural fire fighting, aircraft crash rescue, pre-hospital emergency care, rural fire fighting and approved fillers for breathing apparatus equipment.

SSGT Clarke said that there were three women in the Army’s fire service at present and all were performing extremely well. One who successfully completed the course was Sapper Darci Walker, who has been in the Army’s fire service for three years.

“I’m the type of person who likes to do the things many other girls don’t do”, says SPR Walker. “I enjoy the physical side of fire fighting. I’ve been to car crashes and aircraft crashes and we all work as a team.”

SPR Walker said her next step would be taking on more responsibility by leading teams and working as a shift boss.

Reported by Faye Lougher

Hamilton boy Mel Marnane with a Mistral weapon, watched closely by LBDR Marshall Oldehaver

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SPR Darci Walker

The TRSB Catering Team (L-R): PTE Aroha Maidens, PTE Holly Hermansen, PTE Natasha Tomlins, WO2 Phillip Russell, PTE Craig Turnball Village Green competition winners: the “Joint Kiwi” team from HQ JFNZ

Indoor netball at the Village Green PTE Caleb Turfrey ten-pin bowling

Improved ground-air co-operation between 1 RNZIR and RNZAF 5 Squadron was trialled in Auckland in November.

The Commanding Officer of 1 RNZIR’s Tac Party, consisting of two NZLAVs from Whiskey Company, and a LOB (light obstacle blade) variant from 2 Engineer Regiment, travelled up to Whenuapai Air Base and Kaipara Range to train with 5 Sqn.

A series of experiments were conducted in Whenuapai, in conjunction with a NZLAV shoot in Kaipara. The combined ground and air activities achieved some success, and offered new challenges to 5 Sqn’s maritime-focused P3K Orion aircrew.

After activities at Kaipara, the Tac Party conducted public relations activities in the Auckland region. Civilians involved in TF-sponsored leadership training were briefed on the NZLAV, and the NZLAVs squeezed through Queen Street’s mid-morning traffic – drawing a few stares from onlookers.

Elements of the Tac Party also supported a recruiting activity at Pukekohe’s Wesley College, where the many All Black jerseys on the mess hall wall demonstrate the school’s proud sporting pedigree.

Contributed by CAPT Aldis Malskaitis

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NZLAVs visit big smoke

A NZLAV drives up Queen Street, in central Auckland. Photo: NZ Herald ©

LT COL Howard in an NZLAV on Queen Street. Photo: NZHerald ©

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news13issue 369 12 December 2006

21 Supply Company conducted their annual Inter-Platoon Catering (chefs and stewards) versus Supply/Quartermaster Challenge in early November.

This year’s challenge was for each platoon to establish their dominance in a new arena: the Linton Camp Kupe Swimming Pool

Complex. Each team was assessed on the highest accumulative number of laps of the pool over the course of three hours. Team members had to swim hard, and swim fast.

After being given the general guidelines, teams conducted the swim with freedom of style and the number of laps per individual entrant.

The competition was fierce and palpable. After a pre-entry compulsory rope climb in DPMs, all teams took to the water.

The Supply Platoon took an early lead, which was sustained for most of the three hours. Older members in the combined Petroleum Pl and Coy HQ team fought back, throughout the three hours, to try and

match their opponents stroke for stroke. The Catering team struggled to float, opting for an endurance swim. The Supply platoon was methodical and meticulous, preferring separate laps.

The overall results left the combined H-Pet-Q Team a clear first with a total of 422 laps, followed by Supply Platoon, then the Catering Platoon. A total of 30 personnel accumulated over 30,000 metres in the water. This challenge assisted in preparing swimmers to enter the 2 LFG annual swimming competition later in the year.

The highest individual score was from swim veteran Captain Jay Roberts, with 54 laps at sprint pace.

The event was followed up by a company function and prizegiving, in which H-Pet-Q was awarded the prestigious CAT-SUP Challenge Trophy, the Sledge Hammer.

Contributed by 2LT Winston Walker

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CAT v SUP Challenge

Competitors compete at the Linton Camp Kupe Swimming Pool Complex

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Two NZ Army teams, one from 2 Field Squadron, 2nd Engineer Regiment, and one from Support Company, 2/1 RNZIR, went to Wales in late-October to complete the Cambrian Patrol – an international patrolling exercise hosted by the British Army.

Advertised as “The Ultimate Challenge”, the patrolling exercise is a demanding skill-at-arms event conducted over a 48-hour period. Its aim: to test the leadership, teamwork and fitness of small, well-trained teams from any arm or service in order to develop operational capability.

The event has been running for 40 years now and takes place near the home of British SAS selection: the Breacon Beacons in Wales. The reputation for the area is steep, tussock-covered hills, changeable weather conditions and visibility measured in the negatives – so all we really needed was Ruapehu in the background to feel completely at home.

Although most of the 95 teams came from Britain, other countries are invited to attend the exercise, which this year saw teams from Canada, India, Denmark, France, Holland, the Czech Republic, Latvia

and Lithuania. Once arriving in the UK, it does not take long to work out this is less

of an exercise and more of a competition. The British units take it very seriously and the event is shrouded by mystery and rumour. So after a few days of training on the British weapons and radios, we arrived at our given grid reference awaiting further direction. From here we were directed through checkpoints, kit inspections and the orders process before embarking on the patrol itself.

The scenario given sees each patrol infiltrate across the border into a hostile country where the aim is to collect information on enemy targets, rendezvous with friendly agents and support the local militia. Other tasks during the 48-hour period included a river crossing, small arms recognition, prisoner of war handling and a counter vehicle ambush. In between each task, patrols are fatigued with long navigation legs, meaning a total of about 60 kilometres were completed during the patrol. The final two being none other than a beloved stretcher carry.

The initial orders, each task and the final patrol debrief were

assessed and each team is awarded points. Gold, silver or bronze level, or a certificate of completion, is bestowed on each of the teams that complete the patrol based on the points they accumulate. For 2006, 95 teams began the patrol, 64 teams finished.

The engineer team won a bronze medal whilst the team from 2/1 RNZIR were disappointed to have a member of their team suffer a relapse of malaria, forcing his withdrawal. The team went on to receive a certificate of completion.

So is the exercise all it’s talked up to be? No, they never are. Is it worth the time and effort? Most definitely. There’s no question the exercise provided a valuable focus to training and a clear evaluation of soldier skills against international teams. The result is better trained soldiers that have continued to prove the calibre of New Zealand soldiers on the world stage.

And does the beer taste better in Wales? Train up a team, get there and find out for yourself.

Contributed by LT Mike Rendall

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Taking on world’s best

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SPR Gracie, LCPL Tauti and SPR Perry during a foreign weapons identification lesson as part of lead-up training 2/1 RNZIR training in the Breacon Beacons before the patrol

SPR Gracie and SPR Perry, 2 Field Squadron, with their bronze medals 2/1 RNZIR team at Windsor CastleThe 2 Field Squadron team who took a bronze medal in Exercise Cambrian Patrol “The Ultimate Challenge”!

cmykcmyk

COURAGE COMMITMENT COMRADESHIP INTEGRITY14entertainment

CROSSWORD BY MIKE DUNCAN

CART

OON

#62

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1. What was the strategic aim of the Gallipoli campaign?

2. How many allied troops fought at Gallipoli?

3. Bernard Freyberg commanded 2 NZ Div in WWII. With which British unit did he serve at Gallipoli?

4. How many New Zealand troops landed on 25 April, 1915. 2000, 3000 or 5000?

5. Who commanded the British forces, including the ANZACs, on Gallipoli?

6. How long did the campaign last?

7. Soldiers from which countries fought at Gallipoli?

8. How many New Zealanders were serving at Gallipoli?

9. What were New Zealand’s casualties?

10. In terms of troop losses, which country suffered the most at Gallipoli?

ANSWERS1.The elimination of Turkey from the war as a German ally 2.Approximately 480,000 3. The Hood Battalion of the Royal Naval Division 4.3000 5. General Sir Ian Hamilton until 15 October, 1915, then Sir Charles Monro 6. Near enough to eight months: 25 April – 20 December, 1915, although the last British troops left Helles on 9 January, 1916 7. Turkey, Germany, NZ, Australia, France, Great Britain and India. 8. 8556 9. 7473; 2721 died and 4752 were wounded but many men returned again and again after recovering from wounds or disease 10. Turkey, with an estimated 250,000 casualties

THE smoko quiz #033

1. Which company built the famous Merlin aircraft engines?

2. When and for what purpose did the modern corvette make its appearance?

3. Where is the NZDF Command and Staff College located?

4. Who is the highest decorated New Zealand soldier still living? (Written 16 Oct 06)

5. Which day is commemorated as Battle of Britain Day?

6. In which Iraqi city was the NZ Light Engineer Group based in 2003–04?

7. The Steyr rifle is named for an Austrian city but where are New Zealand’s Steyrs manufactured?

8. To which year does the NZ Army trace its beginnings?

9. Who was GEN Robert E Lee?

10. How did the term field gun come into being?

ANSWERS1. Rolls Royce 2. An easily built patrol and convoy escort vessel, it appeared during WWII. 3. Trentham Military Camp. 4. SGT Eric Bachelor, DCM and Bar. 5. 15 September. 6. Basra. 7. Lithgow, NSW Australia. 8. 1845. 9. A career soldier who rose to prominence during the American Civil War, becoming General-in-Chief of Confederate forces in 1865. 10. Originally it was applied to artillery pieces capable of being moved to a battlefield and used as opposed to fortress and siege cannon.

stars

★ ★★

seeing★

★

AQUARIUSJan 21 to Feb 19If you can work hard, concentrate and sacrifice you can achieve great things. Pyramids, Nazca lines, Dark Side of the Moon – that kind of greatness.

PISCESFeb 20 to Mar 20Solutions can be found if you try something different. Try pouring salt into a glass of water. Okay, it’s a pretty boring solution, but at least it’s a start.

ARIESMar 21 to April 20Keep some things to yourself if you don’t want to risk ridicule. Especially your operetta done entirely in Wookie. Nobody will really want to see any more than 10 minutes of that. Even if you shave them. The Wookies, I mean.

TAURUSApril 21 to May 21Don’t let someone you are involved with mess with your mind so you don’t take full advantage of a good financial opportunity. Of course, what you see as messing with your mind, they will say is just trying to talk sense to you. That’s what they all say, damned Mind Messers.

GEMINIMay 22 to June 21Your prognostications of a long, hot summer based on the early flowering of the pohutukawa may as well be as wrong this year as it has been for the past 20 or so. Face it, it’s going to be windy and crap. The Africans have got all the hot, still stuff again.

CANCER June 22 to July 23You’ll make headway if you socialise with people who see your potential. As soon as you get clearance to enter their particular part of the hospital.

LEOJuly 24 to Aug 23Don’t consider the “why-not” when coming up with a creative solution to a complex problem. Why-nots are for wimps. And people with budgets.

VIRGOAug 24 to Sept 23Sometimes letting go of the past is the only way to go forward. Hiding it under the bed is also a useful option.

LIBRASept 24 to Oct 23You will win favours with people if you show you are willing to compromise. Or maybe slip them a dozen or so at an opportune moment. Both strategies work, and together they are unstoppable.

SCORPIOOct 24 to Nov 22With the current concerns over global warming, there will probably be a renewed push for all carbon emissions from firearms to be countered with the plantings of trees for every artillery barrage, and a bowl of petunias for every magazine blatted off. It may be a bit more expensive, but the conflict zones of the future should be a lot more picturesque.

SAGITTARIUSNov 23 to Dec 20Ah, the delicious anticipation of your birthday. The knowledge that on this remarkable day, a unique individual, a magical mix of DNA and random genes, came forth and has continued to blunder blissfully around the face of the earth. Good on you, that’s what I say, good on you!

CAPRICORNDec 21 to Jan 20If you see some Sagittarian wandering around looking smug, remind them that any fool can be born, and a surprising number of them are.

5 Siren6 Protection10 Perfect12 Singing with abrupt change

of register13 Chase14 Scene of decisive WWII

battles for NZ forces17 Pilot18 Drum major’s staff19 Shelf22 Web

ACROSS:1 Military man heading coup

in Fiji7 Disorder 8 Fleshy part at back of leg 9 WWII anti-tank weapon11 Non-professional13 Medieval weapon14 Company (abbr)15 Flood protection wall16 Firearms 18 Spent cartridge ejector20 Subdivision of a larger

military formation21 Detained during wartime22 Survey an enemy’s position

DOWN:1 Emblem 2 Issue (abbr) 3 Earn 4 Percentage of income from

sale of a book eg

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PREVIOUS PUZZLE

BY MIKE DUNCAN

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P I N Z G A U E R H I G HU I G L N OM O B I L I T Y I D O LP L S I SS S K Y E I M P A C T

H A I EJ A V A P A N V E E RA K U OV I K I N G L A T E SE I A E IL E A D R E V E I L L EI N E E E GN I G H T E X E R C I S E

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COURAGE COMMITMENT COMRADESHIP INTEGRITYnews15

issue 369 12 December 2006

NEW ZEALAND FIELD INTELLIGENCE COURSE 2007 17 September – 23 October 2007

PRE-ENTRY TESTING

23 July – 3 August 2007 For more details check out the School of Military

Intelligence and security website on DIXS(http://awi-teams/atg/lotc/smis/)

You are on patrol

Can you work it out?

You arrive in a village. A local approaches you. Through an interpreter he tells you that he has

information that may be of interest to you.

Is he a friend, or is he working for someone else?

What does he know and how can you be sure that he is telling you the truth?

Why is he so willing to talk to you when so many other locals will not?

Do you think you have what it takesto be a field intelligence operator?

What is equipment care (EC)?The process employed by commanders and equipment operators to help ensure their

equipment achieves the highest levels of availabilityin the most cost effective manner

We all use the term but what does it actually mean? It is sometimes used interchangeably with the term “equipment husbandry”. Without thinking too much about it we all appreciate the effects of poor equipment care. Think of the sober driver who jumped in the car to drive the lads home and having turned the key is met with a shameful and empty “click”. Were the lads impressed? Think of the soldier attending his first live field firing exercise with a fully loaded magazine. He pepper-pots, drops to the prone fire position, takes aim, squeezes the trigger and “click”. Nothing! EC is not just about sending broken equipment to your supporting workshop just before an exercise. Neither is it about inspections just for the sake of inspections.EC is the sum of all physical actions taken by soldiers to ensure their equipment is maintained in a serviceable state. It includes routine maintenance, function tests, inspections, cleaning, and so on, that may be necessary. It means treating equipment with respect – as though it was your own – because not only may your life depend on it, but so might your mates. EC is a function of command and enhances operational effectiveness.It may sound like something out of a doctrinal pam, directive or policy statement somewhere (actually, it is!). Commanders at all levels need to ensure EC is performed as a habit and becomes normal routine.

If a subordinate’s innovative EC idea merits recognition, prepare a submission to the Defence Suggestions Scheme, there is money in it for them. EC starts from the top: our senior commanders from CA down take EC very seriously. However, EC is the responsibility of the equipment operator irrespective of rank. Think about this:• First Parade Sheets are just that: the first thing we do! Insist on them being done properly!• Identify and submit equipment failures in a timely manner using FORM EMEFIX. • If your equipment is unsatisfactory and/or defective, raise a RODUM.• When you have finished using equipment, ensure you leave it in a state in which you would wish to find it.There are people around who can help you. If you are unsure what to do, seek the assistance of your assigned maintenance support elements, or CQMS.

Take care of your equipment and it will take care of you

Refer to DFO(A) Vol 4: Support Matters; NZP98:Land Equipment Maintenance Engineering Instructions; NZP96: Equipment Management Policy Statements, and related Operator Manuals. Publications are

available online via the Defence intranet

Plan for it!Allow sufficient time for it!

Supervise it!

CRICKET REUNION WHAT: RNZAF Cricket reunionWHEN: 1 and 2 February 2007

WHERE: RNZAF Base WoodbourneMORE INFO: RNZAF Website under the Reunion banner

or by contacting W/O Gary Clark (gary.clark@nzdf.mil.nz) or Mr Merv Parr (merven.parr@nzdf.mil.nz)

Wings over Wairarapa20-21 January 2007

Hood Aerodrome, MastertonWairarapa’s air and vintage vehicle show includes:

A wine and food festival •Warbirds and vintage aircraft •

Warhorses • Over 60 rare and vintage military vehicles •

Displays by the NZ Army and RNZAF •

The Linton Army Rugby Club will field the following five teams in 2007. In some cases, 2006 coaches and

managers are returning next year.

Linton Rugby Club

2007 Linton Army Rugby Club teams:

Senior A (MRU Senior 1st Grade) (Semi-finalists 2006)Co-Coach: Daz HorsleyCo-Coach: Lyall MooneyManger: Troy Homes

Senior B (MRU Senior 2nd Grade)Coach: VacantAsst Coach: VacantManager: Vacant

Pressies (MRU Presidents Grade) (winners 2006)Coordinator: Aubrey Murray

Women (MRU Women’s Grade) (winners 2006)Coach: VacantAsst Coach: Vacant (1 nom received)Manager: Vacant

Colts (MRU Premier Colts Grade) (finalists 2006)Coach: Smurf MurphyAsst Coach: Vacant (1 nom received)Manager: Vacant

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A WORLD CLASS ARMY THAT HAS MANA

In mid-October, Captain Logan Vaughan received a phone call forcing him to make a rapid decision: fly to Australia for an Army course, or fly to Argentina for a 17-day rugby tour with the New Zealand Heartland XV (formerly the Divisional XV).

What’s that, “Don’t give up your day job”? Right. The day after playing in the NPC final for Wanganui, CAPT Vaughan took a temporary break from his role as Senior Instructor Dismounted Ops at Combat School, Waiouru, and travelled up to Auckland to begin training for the tour.

Logan’s story:Most of our training concentrated on a game

plan that moved the ball away from the opposition forward pack and we didn’t do much on defence. This was made clear when we played the All Blacks on the Friday that we were to depart.

The pace of the game was fast and furious. Both sides refused to kick it, and it wasn’t long until the superior fitness of the ABs began to tell and they started running in plenty of tries. Even so, it was an awesome experience to see first hand how good they really are. After the game we had lunch with them, and then boarded the plane for our flight to Argentina.

Our first stop was Salta, in the northwest of Argentina. Salta has a population of 600,000 and is renowned for its Spanish colonial architecture.

The rugby was a tough ask though. On our second night, at a barbeque at the local rugby union headquarters, most of the team contracted a stomach virus producing chronic diarrhoea and vomiting. For some of the team, this would last the length of the tour.

As it was, we all struggled to go the full 80 minutes in the first game. I started at centre and was ready to go after performing our first haka of the tour to a stadium of 18,000 people. However, the start was delayed by the locals, who held a 10-minute mini prize giving on pitch! Getting tips off the Welsh, I suppose?

We were then given a lesson in playing to the whistle and, with the referee giving no engage call in the scrums and allowing a free for all at the breakdowns, we were getting destroyed in those areas. We were down 22-12 at the break, with the Salta forwards scoring three tries. More urgency was shown in the rush to the toilets at halftime than had been shown on the pitch.

For the second 40 we adopted to the “new rules” and we managed to sneak another try in and win

the game 23-22. All our tries were scored from 60 metres-plus out and were all scored by the backs with me lucky enough to get two! I have never been so exhausted after a game of rugby but we did well to finish stronger than the locals, especially at an altitude of 1,200m and against a team that fielded 26 players in total.

The next day it was a journey south to Tucaman. Tucaman is larger than Salta, with a population of over 1 million. But in contrast to Salta, where the streets were clean and the locals friendly, Tucaman was dirty, with rubbish and stray dogs everywhere.

Tucaman is the second best rugby province in Argentina, with some ex-Pumas and Argentina “A” players in their ranks. With only four days to recover and prepare before the game, we were straight into twice-daily training.

Down only 13-6 at halftime we were looking fairly good, but, in the second half the 32-degree heat took its toll and the team ran out of puff. Several penalties led to two quick tries being scored, effectively putting us out of the match. We did run in a try from behind our own line, which got huge cheers from the crowd, but we finally went down 35-13.

We arrived in Rosario after a two-hour flight and had to endure another four-hour bus trip with the inevitable barbeque lunch (do they eat anything else?). Having now learnt our lesson, we knew what food to avoid and most of the team came through the meal unscathed.

We trained in the morning and late afternoon due to the heat, which meant that we were usually up early, not easy given that the functions we attended didn’t start until around 10pm, with dinner served

after 11pm. The management gave the tired team a day off and we explored the city. Rosario is a river city of 1.5 million people and has really good shops, with similar prices to New Zealand; however, our dollar is much stronger (about 2-1) – the Army

Women’s rugby team would have had a field day!

I was named to start at centre for the “test” match versus Argentina “A”. While I was immensely happy and proud to be there I was under no illusions about how hard the game was going to be. Some players were still suffering from mysterious assorted sicknesses, and some even had to be given intravenous drips on the day of the test.

For the first half we were very competitive but Argentina “A” scored two quick tries and before halftime we were down 21-5. The anticipated “neutral” ref didn’t materialise, much to our disgust. Never again will I moan about Paul Honis, the local ref was a phenomenon!

He gave the opposition a try after a maul broke up and half of it crashed 10m and over the line after searching for and supposedly finding the ball at the bottom of the maul and vigorously blew his whistle and pointed at something. We had turned it over further up the field and were off with a 6 on 2 overlap. The result? A 5m scrum to Argentina amidst jeering crowds and many colourful words from us. A

pity he couldn’t understand them!When he awarded a try that the touch judge had

said wasn’t a try, I knew we were going to struggle – and we did. We had several line breaks but were always called back for something or other.

However, the Argentinean team was very good,

with big forwards and fast backs. They scored some excellent, fair tries. The final score was 39-5.

The next day we departed for Buenos Aires and went to a soccer game featuring Diego Maradonna’s team Boca Juniors. There were 80,000 people all jumping up and down which was somewhat unsettling, as the stadium was shaking! Then it was time to return to Waiouru – and the “day job”.

The tour was a wonderful experience where I not only learned a bit more about rugby but also a new culture. The NZRU were great and treated us very well. The team were all good mates in no time. The usual fascination with the Army had me fielding lots of questions about joining requirements, what we actually do etc. I gave them my well-rehearsed recruiting lines – so man those phones SRR!

Highlights• Being treated like All Blacks was awesome

at first with hundreds watching us train and wanting autographs and photos;

• Being presented with the playing jersey by people such as Earl Kirton, Colin Meads and Ross Cooper was very special – pulling it on was better still!

• Performing the haka and scoring in the black jersey;

• Receiving faxes from the ABs prior to our games wishing us luck;

• Winning my first-ever game of Texas hold ‘em poker and 120 pesos!

• Not having to cook, clean or do my own washing for three weeks!

• Getting more Adidas kit than I could ever use – hands off Andre Renata!

• The steak meals for the first few days: very tasty and big!

Lowlights• Losing! • Refs;• Losing 6kg on tour and still getting cramps

a week after returning home• The steak meals for the last 10 days!

I would like to give special thanks to: the staff at the Combat School for picking up my work for a few weeks; the CI MAJ Michie, CO LOTC LT COL Hill and the Commander COL Burnett for all their support which was much appreciated, not only for this tour but also during the NPC season.

Divided loyalties

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Peter Rowe, Hugo Porter (former Puma star flyhalf) and CAPT Vaughan after the test in RosarioCAPT Vaughan with ABs Leon McDonald and Aaron Mauger after the New Zealand Heartland XV vs All Blacks game

CAPT Vaughan doing his day job

CAPT Vaughan (R) with team mates Dylan Higginson and Dan Aldworth

The papers described us as the Heartland XV “Amateur All Blacks”

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