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exercise alam Halfa TraDOcDOugie HugHes laiD TO resTnzsas afgHan TOur enDs

c O u r a g e | c O m m i T m e n T | c O m r a D e s H i p | i n T e g r i T yarmynews

linTOn Officer’s persOnal linK TO gallipOli

exercise alam Halfa

JOb well DOne nzsas

Having a great-great uncle who fought at Gallipoli will make Lieutenant Colonel Mark Blythen’s role as Contingent Commander in the upcoming Anzac Day ceremonies in Gallipoli even more personal.

“My great-great Uncle, Sergeant Mark Vipond from Matakana, served at Gallipoli with the Auckland Mounted Rifles. He landed at Gallipoli in October 1915 but was later evacuated due to illness. He then went on to fight in Africa and was killed in Egypt in August 1916 and is buried at Kantara War Memorial Cemetery in Egypt. I am honoured to be part of the Anzac Day ceremonies at Gallipoli and have the chance to connect to my family this way,” LTCOL Blythen said.

LT COL Blythen, currently the Commanding Officer of the 2nd Combat Service Support Battalion of the Royal New Zealand Army Logistics Regiment, is based at Linton, near Palmerston North.

As contingent commander LT COL Blythen is responsible for coordinating the official New Zealand contingent which includes the Vice Chief of Defence Force, Rear Admiral Jack Steer, and 18 New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) personnel including an Army chaplain, catafalque guard, and members of the NZ Army Band.

The Anzac Day ceremonies in Gallipoli begin on Saturday 24 April with the Turkish International Service and conclude with the New Zealand Service at Chunuk Bair on 25 April. The services will be attended by dignitaries from New Zealand, Australia and Turkey.

The NZSAS mission to Afghanistan officially ended on Saturday 31 March 2012.

The NZSAS were deployed in September 2009 – the fourth deployment of the Task Group to Afghanistan.

The Chief of Defence Force, Lieutenant General Rhys Jones says he wants to congratulate all the NZ Defence Force personnel who have served with the Task Group in Kabul over the past two and a half years.

“Much has been achieved in this time. We have gained international recognition from our Allies for the way the Task Group has conducted itself. Whilst deployed, operations have included partnering with the Afghan Ministry of Interior’s counter terrorism Crisis Response Unit (CRU); supporting CRU direct action tasks against insurgent networks; responding to attacks within Kabul; as well as providing operational support to New Zealand

Defence Force elements in theatre.”The New Zealand Government deployed NZ Defence Force personnel to

Afghanistan to support the international effort to deny Al Qaeda safe havens in Afghanistan from which to plan further attacks.

“In this sense, the NZSAS deployments have directly helped protect New Zealanders from the risk of international terrorism,” says LTGEN Jones.

“I also acknowledge that the mission saw the tragic loss of two lives - Corporal Doug Grant and Lance Corporal Leon Smith, killed in 2011 in separate incidents. These soldiers died in the service of their country, and in doing so they made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of New Zealand. Our thoughts continue to be with their families and colleagues.

“While the loss of life is tragic, it does not diminish the work the NZSAS have achieved.

The NZSAS have served New Zealand with distinction over the course of their deployments in Afghanistan. It’s been a job well done. My congratulations to them all.”

Exercise Alam Halfa, which begins later this month, is the first of two major field exercises being held this year by 1 (NZ) Brigade. The exercise will be conducted in the Northern Wairarapa, Napier and Waiouru areas to practise combined arms skills. The majority of the exercise will be conducted within the Waiouru Military Training Area. Initial lodgment will be through Napier with tactical transit via state highways to Waiouru.The field phase of the exercise is 26 April – 6 May. On Monday 16 April 2/1 formally welcomed the group of US Army personnel to their unit .

Prior to their lodgment in Napier, US Army personnel are training with 2/1 Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment for a series of pre-exercise activities, both combat (e.g. weapons qualification) and cultural. This will include attending Anzac Day ceremonies in Christchurch.

Exercise Alam Halfa focuses on conventional warfare operations, including armoured and light infantry tactics. Primarily an Army exercise, Alam Halfa will also be supported by Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) and Royal New Zealand

LTCOL Mark Blythen

The Commanding Officer, 2/1 Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel Stef Michiegreets one of his US counterparts in Burnham Camp.

Correction: Cyclist Lance Corporal Kiwi Chambers is the Army Young Sportsperson of the Year, not Kim Chambers as was printed in the March issue of Army News.

Air Force (RNZAF) elements. In large-scale exercises, NZDF often exercises with a friends and allies. For Alam Halfa, this comprises elements of the US Army and the US Marine Corps Forces Pacific. The US contingent will comprise a platoon-sized group from the US Army (approx 41 personnel) and a group of 37 US Marine Corps personnel.

The US element is a mix of specialist personnel that will complement and enhance NZ Army capabilities during the exercise.

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

civilian staff of the New Zealand Army.

Editor: Judith MartinPhone: 04-496-0227 or

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

email: armynews@nzdf.mil.nz

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

design: Jennifer Watts, DCG, NZDF

Editorial contributions and letters are welcomed.

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

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All material is copyright, and permission to reproduce must be sought from the editor.

COVER:Soldiers demonstrate less lethal techniques.(See Non-lethal weapons extend commanders’ options Page 9)

april 2012issue 430

nzarmynewscOnTenTs

newsExercise Alan Halfa 02SAS mission ends 02

New Army fitness test 03Top Soldiers return from

Hawaii 04CPL Dougie Hughes laid to

rest 05TRADOC 07

TrainingAire care 08

Spotty Bulldog 08NOLES 09

peOple Engineers celebrate 10

NZ Army soldier systems 1116 Field Regiment's

refocus 12Len Manning's legacy 13

Ghurkas train in Burnham 20Tussock Buster 21

issue 430 | april 2012armynews03all arms, all reaDy, all THe Time

nzsas sOlDier’s braVery TO be recOgniseD pOsTHumOusly

memOrial crOsses presenTeD TO slain sOlDiers’ families

The New Zealand Army will soon have its very own, scientifically validated, task-specific, fitness test. A one standard for all— regardless of age, gender or trade— based on the minimum physical requirements to do the job of the All Arms Soldier safely and effectively.

Over the last 18 months, a team of subject matter experts from all trades, along with exercise specialists from the Defence Technology Agency (DTA), personnel advisors and chain of command have been toiling away behind the scenes to develop a robust and relevant means of determining physical readiness to perform the required tasks at Directed Level of Capability.

This isn’t the first time Army has tried to do this and the good work of previous attempts is being built on. By the end of 2012, Army will have an evidence-based test that is task-related and accurately reflects current and future job demands. It will be non-discriminatory, standardised and able to be performed almost anywhere.

With a task-specific physical test will follow task-specific physical training, to help as many people as possible meet

the required and validated level of performance. Testing will identify areas of weakness to guide future preparation and ultimately enhance performance and reduce injury.

The intent is to introduce this Fitness Test into the NZ Army to replace the Battle Efficiency Test (BET) in May 2012. There will be a final trial phase from Apr-Oct 2012 where units will have the opportunity to give feedback. This will allow for final analysis to be completed and considered prior to introducing the final product into the NZ Army by January 2013 where it will replace both the Battle Efficiency Test and the required Fitness Level.

This test consists of the following assessments:Jerry Can (JC) Lift and Place •Simulated CASEVAC Drag•Fire and Manoeuvre •Simulated CASEVAC Stretcher Carry•Tactical Move by foot (Unspecified)•

Full details of each assessment will be available from May 2012.

One of the two New Zealand 1 NZSAS Regiment soldiers killed in combat last year, Lance Corporal Leon Smith is to become the latest recipient of the Charles Upham Award for Bravery.

The award is made to the person who has risked their life to undertake an outstanding act of heroism during the previous two calendar years, as determined by the Charles Upham Trust Committee.

Nominations are called for each year from organisations such as the NZ Defence Force, NZ Police, NZ Fire Service, Civil Defence and the Surf Life Saving Association in addition to the public.

On 19 August 2011, Lance Corporal Smith was part of a NZSAS Task Force that responded to an insurgent attack on the British Council Office in Kabul, Afghanistan. Also present was Corporal Doug Grant, who was tragically killed during the incident.

During the response, Lance Corporal Smith had exposed himself to insurgent fire in order to confirm Corporal Grant’s location after he had been mortally wounded. He then ran across exposed and open ground in order to reach Corporal Grant’s location, and immediately started applying first aid until he could be evacuated.

The announcement means that LCPL Smith will become the 24th recipient of the Charles Upham Award for Bravery when it is presented by the Governor General at a time and place yet to be determined. He will also become the fourth member of the NZ Defence Force to receive the award.

The families of two NZSAS soldiers killed in Afghanistan last year have been presented with the New Zealand Memorial Cross by Prime Minister John Key.

Family members of both Corporal Doug Grant and Lance Corporal Leon Smith attended a closed ceremony in Papakura Military Camp, which was also attended by senior members of the NZDF and colleagues from the NZSAS Regiment.

The New Zealand Memorial Cross is presented to family members of New Zealand Service personnel who lose their lives during, or as a result of, operational service outside New Zealand.

Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant General Rhys Jones said the medal recognises that it is not only the soldiers themselves that make sacrifices in the service of New Zealand, but also their families.

“Both Corporal Grant and Lance Corporal Smith died in the service of their country, and in doing so they made the ultimate sacrifice. Today those sacrifices, along with the impact that these tragic events have had on their families, is remembered”.

CPL Grant was shot by insurgents while attempting to free captives held in the British Council offices in Kabul on 19 August 2011. He died from his injuries en route to hospital.

LCPL Smith was killed on 28 September 2011 after being struck by a bullet fired by an insurgent while securing a compound during a partnered operation with the Afghan Crisis Response Unit.

By Chief of Army, Major General Tim Keating

In my last editorial I wrote about the requirement for our Army to develop a greater Joint Approach as one of the ways we will change the way we operate in the future to remain a relevant and high performing Army. This is an imperative for us. We must draw on the common capabilities that are held in the three services which will enable us to sustain our operations for much longer, without undue stress being placed on the more deployable elements. It also means we must become expert at operating out of, or from RNZN ships and RNZAF airframes. This means we must take every opportunity in our training to build this expertise with the other services.

Added to the Joint approach is another significant change that we intend to make as part of our new Army, beyond 2015 - to develop an Army that has keener battlefield senses and a greater ability to interpret and act decisively on that information. While there are certainly areas where big armies and their equally ‘big’ approaches are necessary, there is a place on the battlefield for nations who possess small, smart and tough armies. In many cases, these are the force elements that deliver an effect well beyond their actual size, if they are organised to deliver the ‘blow’ where it is best placed.

This presents an exciting opportunity for us. We already demonstrate an agility and responsiveness that holds us in high regard with our friends, allies and partners. It is often the smaller, leaner, more responsive team member that is relied upon to make those critical plays that win the game. This is a unique, yet powerful, position - and one I am keen to focus on as we move forward.

In the upcoming years we have a significant investment in Command and Control Systems as well as Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance assets. What we must ensure is that this investment enables us to deliver our battlefield effects with more precision. Examples in more common terms are a small force cannot afford to conduct blind patrolling programmes; patrols must be directed by sound intelligence. Similarly a small force cannot afford to strike on a broad front, rather it should strike with precision where the greatest effect can be achieved. This equally applies to the delivery of effects such as Humanitarian Aid and Information. We have seen highly successful examples of this approach with our recent operations in the PRT in Bamyan and our SAS operations in Afghanistan.

In essence we are building towards a force that will use its small size to its advantage. This requires us to be tougher, smarter and focused on operational deployability as part of a joint force. With this focus in mind, we cannot help but succeed.

a releVanT anD HigH-perfOrming army

LCPL Leon Smith

Prime Minister John Key presents theMemorial Cross to Lance Corporal Leon Smith’s brother.

army news neeDs yOur sTOries!

Have you done something recently that really turned out well? Have your troops had successes they are proud of? Maybe they have come up with a truly great idea, received an excellent exam result, or a win on the sportsfield.

Tell us about it. If you need help with putting the story together or illustrating it, just call 04 4960227, or email armynews@nzdf.mil.nz

04armynewsissue 430 | april 2012

TOp sOlDiers reTurn frOm Hawaii

say again...OVer

A MONTHLY COMMENT FROM DEPUTY CHIEF OF ARMYBRIGADIER CHARLIE LOTT

This is my last “Say Again Over” piece as your Deputy Chief. I will however endeavour to keep contact in my new role as COMLOG.

I’ve been privileged to be your DCA for just on 12 months. The job can be characterised by the words ‘frenetic’, ‘fulfilling’ and ‘fun’ although ‘frustrating’ rates a mention. I have been fortunate to have had a bunch of truly outstanding staff officers, both military and civilian who have often gone the extra mile to begin to get us to where we need to be to support CA’s and CDF’s intent. To them all my grateful thanks and best wishes. Many of my current team have been properly rewarded with promotion and commands in their own right. This seems to indicate that a posting to the Office of DCA is a highway to stardom!

Though 12 months isn’t long to be in this job, I thought I’d close off my time as DCA by sharing some of the lessons I’ve learned about command and leadership in this job. They are based on musings from US General Colin Powell but adapted by a much lesser ranked (and probably rated) NZ Brigadier, DCA. For the record I’ll use command and leadership interchangeably. Here goes – you might relate to or with some or all of them.

Lesson One: - being a commander means that sometimes you have to seriously annoy people off. Being ‘nice’ in command and telling people what they want to hear just doesn’t cut it. Sometimes a commander must make the hard

calls that may hurt others in his or her command but will allow overall success. It goes with the job and we shouldn’t be frightened of it. In my experience seriously annoyed people get over it after a while especially if you consider the lessons that follow.

Lesson Two: - the day that your team stops bringing you their problems is the day that you have failed as their commander. This being said, a wise team will bring you a problem with a set of options from which you can choose a course of action which may or may not seriously annoy people. I like to think that a good commander encourages his staff to knock on the door or barge on in and speak their mind on a problem or issue that they can’t solve on their own – discussion or debate should then ensue and a decision reached. Once the decision is reached, the team then ‘get on with it’, meaning debate is over – but they should have sufficient trust in their commander to come back to him or her to resolve issues they can’t fix. I see command as being a problem – solution – problem – solution cycle.

Lesson Three: - a good commander doesn’t know what he or she can get away with until he or she tries. Now I’m not condoning the old adage that “it’s better so seek forgiveness than permission” but I do wonder whether we as commanders push the envelope as much as we could without being downright stupid about it. A good commander to me takes calculated risks – again some will seriously annoy some people (higher or lower than us) but that’s our job. Being bold without being reckless is good. Tinkering is timid and that’s bad.

Lesson Four: - a good commander never lets his or her ego get so close to their position that when they or the position goes, their ego goes with it. I seem to recall making this point in an earlier “Say Again Over”. A good commander is humble, he doesn’t take credit – he gives it. He does however take the rap when things don’t go according to plan or someone has been reckless. While having an ego is a good trait, having too big a one is a fatal flaw for a commander in my opinion.

Lesson Five: - a commander’s perpetual optimism is a force multiplier. These days it is all too easy for commanders to be doom and gloom. Guess what? If a commander is all doom, chances are his team will think that doom and gloom is de rigueur. My point here is it seems to be fashionable these days to have ‘bad morale’. Yet look around and especially look back. Look where we have come from and what outstanding successes we have created. More importantly look where we are going. Army 2015 and F35 are fantastic opportunities – they are a pathway for the future and I think they are a great cause for optimism.

Lesson Six: - the commander in the field is always right. This refers to the difference between front office and back office, between supported and supporters. I’m going to leave

this one open – it is worthy of your debate!Lesson Seven: - a good commander is always honest – he

or she presents the good with the bad and does not shy away from taking responsibility for bad news. Goes with Rule 1. One of the criticisms I will accept is that I’ve not always been able to do this. Sometimes it is because I hadn’t seen the bad news coming or understood the extent of it. No excuses though – a commander should go and find out the extent of the bad news and be up front and honest with the team. It also helps if a commander can explain ‘the why dimension’. In my experience, if the team can see ‘why’ they can understand their part in it.

Lesson Eight: - good commanders encourage fun. Every OaTS has this as an issue and I think we’ve got so good at ‘going for it’ we’ve lost the talent for sitting back and laughing at ourselves. One of the real pleasures I’ve had working in army GS is the amount of laughter my team shares – taking the mickey is OK (providing it is not done malevolently) and I’ve noticed that fun and laughter are infectious. ODCA is notorious for being ‘loud’ – frankly I don’t care because that is because there is a healthy element of fun in our workplace and you know what? It costs absolutely nothing!

Lesson Nine: - command is the art of accomplishing more than the science of management says is possible. This one stirs the perennial debate about the difference between leadership and management. To me the difference is very, very clear. We command/lead our people and we manage our other resources. After all you can’t command or lead money, infrastructure or equipment (although sometimes we wish we could), you simply manage them but in leading our people we also must by definition manage them.

Lesson Ten & last: - command is lonely. Goes without saying if we consider the lessons above. In my view commanders should not be afraid of the loneliness, nor should we shy away from it. On the other hand commanders should not use it as an excuse to be heavy handed, disrespectful or dispassionate.

Finally to those of you who have provided often witty and bitingly funny feedback on “Say Again Over”, thanks. I’ve enjoyed penning them and I can only hope you’ve read and got something from them even if that is heated disagreement. Thank you also Army for your support in my time as DCA – it is a job I’ve thoroughly enjoyed and been proud to have, though the events of last year were a professional and personal challenge. Like most of you though I’m over it!

Stay safe and well. All the best.

Brig Charlie

A stint with the United States Army provided a valuable insight for New Zealand’s two Top Soldiers into how other Armies train and operate.

Privates Kieran Manaena (Trentham Regional Support Battalion) and Sean Spivey (1 (NZ) Brigade) won the Top Soldier Award last year, with their prize being a place each on the prestigious US Army Warriors Leadership Course in Hawaii. They won the Top Soldier award after topping the 17 deployable criteria, including marksmanship, fitness, health standard, readiness to deploy, and past performance.

PTE Spivey said the course was held in its own separate camp in the centre of Oahu five minutes drive from Schofield Barracks.

“The days were long, starting at 0400 and ending at 2200. We were assessed on drill (American drill), running PT, an oral history brief, leadership positions, and preparing/presenting a lesson to a section size group, and multiple written tests. We played the enemy party in the exercise.

“All course members were Sergeants, and were either based in Hawaii or were Americans based in Japan. Keiran and I were the only international students. I learnt that the NZ Army is relaxed but extremely professional, we don’t get deployed as much but we take a lot of pride in our jobs and do them to a very high standard.

“The American Army is completely different to the NZ Army in the way that they concentrate a lot on customs and courtesies. We're not so strict on standing to attention when talking to superior ranks whereas they are. We can talk to lower ranks as friends but still have the respect to work hard for each other every time it’s needed, and at the end of a hard exercise get together for a BBQ.”

PTE Manaena said it was interesting to see first-hand how another Army trains its soldiers.

There was learning on both sides, with the US soldiers showing interest in how the New Zealanders train and operate

“We learnt how to do their drill, conduct their PT, and use their weapons. We showed some of them how to strip and

assemble their own weapon similar to our LSW C9, and Sean showed them how to strip the M4.”

U.S Army Pacific Command Sergeant Major Frank Leota (the equivalent of New Zealand’s Sergeant Major of the Army) visited the soldiers during their field training exercise to talk about their experiences during the course and to give them a better understanding of the importance of developing the NCO corps.

"We don't teach sergeants, we refine them," Sergeant Major Leota said. "We refine what these sergeants have already been trained in and developed on everyday and ensure that we haven't skipped a beat."

As an example of NCO development, he explained that the technology used at the NCO Academy was a great part of the educational programme, but emphasized "sergeants train sergeants" and when equipment fails, it is the responsibility of the NCO to get "back to the basics."

The future of the Pacific relies on partnerships and friendships, he said.

"You are our partners in the Pacific," he told PTE’s Spivey and Manaena.

Junior leaders are empowered with the authority, autonomy, and responsibility that they will take on as NCOs, Sergeant Major Leota said.

"As the USARPAC command sergeant major, I will continue to ask and request international students to attend the WLC to expose them to the way we train and develop the future leaders of our Army."

Sergeant Major of the Army, Warrant Officer Class One Danny Broughton applauded both PTE Manaena and PTE Spivey for representing their country and their Army well.

“Our soldiers are more than capable of holding their own regardless of the task and no matter what the environment. This course has provided an opportunity to prove this against others with similar length of service and training time. I am quite sure that our two Top Soldiers are now more aware and appreciative of what it means to be World Class with Mana and being ready for the next fight. Well done to both of them.”

PTE Sean Spivey PTE Kieran Manaena

ripDOugie HugHes

CPL Dougie Hughes

Children at his tangi in Pakotai CPL Hughes arrives back in New Zealand

CPL Hughes’ colleagues perform a haka at his tangi

Soldiers perform a haka as CPL Hughes’ casket leaves the marae, and pay their respects shortly afterwards.

His casket is carried by his fellow corporals

Corporal Dougie Hughes who died in Afghanistan was farewelled with full military honours at a ceremony in the Northland settlement of Pakotai on 12 April.

Corporal Hughes, a rifleman from 1st Battalion Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment, based in Linton Military Camp, deployed with the NZ Provincial Reconstruction Team in Bamyan, Afghanistan in September 2011.

An incident occurred at Forward Patrol Base Romero on 3 April and he was flown to Bagram Air Base, accompanied by his patrol commander. CPL Hughes was pronounced dead at approximately 1345hrs (NZ time).

His tangi was held at Te Tarai O Rahiri Marae. The Governor General, Lieutenant General Sir Jerry Mateparae attended, as did the Minister of Defence Dr Jonathan Coleman, the Chief of Defence Force, Lieutenant General Rhys Jones and other Defence Force personnel, including his comrades from 1 RNZIR.

LTGEN Jones and the Commanding Officer 1RNZIR, Lieutenant Colonel Glenn King spoke at the service which was officiated by the Army Chaplain Padre Rewai Te Kahu. CPL Hughes was buried at a local urupa .

LTGEN Jones said CPL Hughes was on his second deployment to Afghanistan, and was a committed and professional soldier.

“He was diligent and motivated and set high standards for himself. He will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and best wishes are with his whanau as well as members of his unit, his friends, and colleagues within the Army and the Defence Force. We will continue to support the future wellbeing of his family.

“I wish to thank all those elements of the New Zealand Defence Force who assisted with his repatriation back home or with ceremonies and family support within New Zealand.”

06armynewsissue 430 | april 2012

afgHanisTan VeHicle acciDenT inVesTigaTiOn cOmpleTeD

emplOyer suppOrT fOr reserVes rewarDeD

The NZ Defence Force has completed its investigation into the death of Private Kirifi Mila who was killed when the vehicle he was travelling in rolled off the road down a steep bank in the North East of Bamyan, Afghanistan, on 15 February 2011.

Private Mila was the vehicle gunner in the lead Humvee during a routine patrol as part of NZ Provincial Reconstruction Team (NZPRT) operations.

The Court of Inquiry found the following:As the driver negotiated a corner at low speed, the road •narrowed significantly and developed a reverse camber, a ‘foot path’ type lip on the left hand side and thick sticky mud at the right hand road edge.Consequently, the “right hand Humvee wheels lost •traction and slipped down the embankment almost simultaneously”. The vehicle rolled one and a half times before coming to a rest on its right hand side. The vehicle rolled on to Private Mila, who died as a •result of crush injuries to his thorax and abdomen.Attempts by the driver to steer the vehicle back onto •its course failed. ”Once the sideways slide began, the vehicle was virtually unrecoverable. The dramatic and unforeseeable change in road conditions could not have been reasonably predicted” by the driver. The Humvee’s speed was not “excessive for the weather •and road conditions at the time of the accident”. “The driver was qualified to drive the vehicle,” and his •patrol members “all rated him as one of the better, more experienced drivers within the contingent”. The accident could not “reasonably be attributed to the •driver’s competence or lack thereof”. His qualifications, training and experience were found to be adequate for operating Humvees in Afghanistan.No vehicle defects were found which could have •contributed to the cause of the accident.“The vehicle was being driven in accordance with •the NZ HMMWV (Humvee) Operators Manual”, with one exception – none of the occupants were wearing

The support shown by Blackhead Quarries for their employees Warrant Officer Gerry Costello and Sergeant Dan Bristow has earned the company the Territorial Forces Employer Support Council (TFESC) National Employer of the Year Award.

The award, which recognises employers who are committed to supporting Reserve Forces personnel in their workplace, was presented to the winner by the Minister of Defence Dr Jonathan Coleman and Chairman of the TFESC Peter Townsend, at a special function at Parliament earlier this month.

Blackhead Quarries was chosen as the supreme winner as they had shown the greatest support for their employees in their military duties.

“It's been very beneficial for us as a company. We see it as a two way thing; in our experience you get fantastic employees. They have great discipline and a very good attitude to work - that rubs off well on the other staff. That's one of the key benefits we see of employing people from the Reserve Forces,” said Blackhead Quarries Business Manager Nigel Hodge.

Blackhead Quarries was chosen from seven finalists drawn from regional awards throughout the country.

During the response to the Christchurch earthquake both Sergeant Bristow and Warrant Officer Costello, who are members of the Otago Southland Battalion Group, deployed for 28 days and 15 days respectively. Over these periods the company continued to support both soldiers financially and managed other staff to cover their workload.

Two further awards were also presented. The public sector award was awarded to Nelson City Council for their support of

seatbelts. “The wearing of seatbelts would have drastically reduced the amount the vehicle occupants were thrown around inside the vehicle during the accident”.However, it has been common practice among NZPRT •personnel not to use the seatbelts fitted in Humvees. “Some witnesses suggested that the cumbersome operation of the in-service Humvee seatbelt over the top of NZ body armour would inhibit fast exit from the vehicle” during a firefight. Contingent personnel were “predominantly unaware” •of the provisions in the Humvee Operators Manual, including the roll-over procedures. Had the correct roll-over procedure drills been carried out by the vehicle occupants, “it is likely that Private Mila would not have been killed as a result of this accident”. “The existence and purpose of Humvee gunner •harnesses was virtually unknown to personnel prior to this accident". Gunner harnesses are designed to prevent the gunner from being thrown out of the turret in an incident. Private Mila was not wearing a gunner harness as it was not fitted to the Humvee. At that time, gunner harnesses had not been used by the NZPRT for some time.

The Court of Inquiry made a number of well-considered and thorough recommendations, which the NZ Defence Force has agreed with, including that:

The NZ Humvee Operators Manual “be reviewed for •currency and compliance and enforced across the mission”. Vehicle roll-over training be conducted before operating •vehicles in Afghanistan.The safety case in respect of using the seatbelts fitted in •Humvees be further investigated. All “NZ operated Humvees have, and routinely use, the •gunner’s harness”. “A training needs analysis… be conducted to identify •

Private Sorachet Keyanonda, of the 2nd Canterbury, Nelson, Marlborough, West Coast Battalion. Private Keyanonda was deployed to Christchurch also, a member of the platoon providing security in the severely damaged CBD area.

The private sector award was won by Brian Sullivan Construction Ltd of Hawera for their support of Senior Sergeant Rangi Abraham who serves with the 5th Wellington, West Coast, Taranaki Battalion.

SSGT Abraham has deployed overseas twice in the time he has been employed by the construction company. In 2000 he deployed to East Timor and in 2011 to Sinai, each time for six months. On both occasions his employer allowed him the necessary leave to attend pre-deployment training and deploy on operations, kept his job open for him on his return and included his family in work related events while he was away.

TFESC Chairman Peter Townsend is encouraged and delighted to see employers supporting their staff members’ involvement in the Reserve Forces and said, “Employers can only gain from encouraging their employee’s involvement in the Reserve Forces. In return for their support they get highly motivated and energised employees that are self-assured team players with problem solving and excellent communication skills.”

The Reserve Forces of the New Zealand Defence Force and are made up of the Royal New Zealand Naval Volunteer Reserve, the Territorial Force of the NZ Army and the Territorial Air Force. Currently there are over 2,300 territorial reservists serving in the NZ Defence Force.

the skills gap and confirm the training required to enable current NZDF personnel to competently operate Humvees in Afghanistan”.

Commander Joint Forces New Zealand, Major General Dave Gawn, who was the Assembling Authority for this Court of Inquiry said:

“Kirifi was a good, professional soldier. He was a popular member of his battalion and was well known as a colourful character. It has been a very difficult time for Kirifi’s family as well as his comrades in the Defence Force.

“The Court of Inquiry has enabled the NZ Defence Force to gain a better understanding of the circumstances leading up to the accident and what we should be doing as a result.

“The NZ Defence Force accepts the Court’s conclusion that the driver faced a dramatic and unforeseeable change in road conditions which he could not reasonably have predicted. The slide and the rollover which resulted were wholly accidental and once the slide commenced it was unrecoverable.

“The Defence Force fully accepts the Court’s recommendations, and a number of changes have been made to pre-deployment training, introduction to theatre training, and procedures in theatre.

“Vehicle roll-over training is conducted for all personnel deploying to operate in vehicles in Afghanistan.

“Gunner harnesses are now used by all New Zealand gunners operating in Humvees.

“Further examination of possible improvements to pre-deployment training in New Zealand and training in-theatre has also been undertaken.

“There is a fine balance between travelling safely and the ability to exit a vehicle expeditiously if it comes under attack by insurgents. Seatbelts are now worn as a matter of routine, however the Commanding Officer may authorise personnel to not wear a seatbelt if he considers that wearing seatbelts in a specific threat environment poses a significant risk.”

Mandy Bishop from Nelson City Council receives the award for Employer Excellence in the Public Sector 2012. The council’s employee is Private Sorachet (Pete) Keyanonda. In the centre is Peter Townsend, Chairman of TFESC.

Peter Sullivan from Brian F Sullivan Construction Ltd with Mr Townsend and employee SSGT Rangi Abraham.

The National winner was Blackhead Quarries represented by Nigel Hodge (second right) with SGT Dan Bristow (left) Mr Townsend, and WO2 Gerry Costello.

issue 430 | april 2012armynews07TraDOc

The Army has to deliver the best possible individual training across the board because it is the foundation of everything we do, says the new TRADOC Commanding Officer, Colonel Evan Williams. "We do it well now, but we can, and should, strive to do it better."

TRADOC stands for Headquarters Training and Doctrine Command New Zealand, and in the Army’s new command and control structure replaces what was formerly known as Headquarters Land Training Doctrine Group, based in Waiouru.

The organisation is responsible for land specific doctrine, the delivery of Army’s individual training, command of the Reserve Infantry Units and directed training evaluation.

COL Williams, who comes to his new role after several years as Military Secretary says the TRADOC adage “Training is what we do, Doctrine is how we think” fits perfectly with what his organisation has been tasked to achieve.

“We are aiming to meet the Chief of Army’s intentions around training a thinking Army, and are looking at how best to deliver Army-wide training, how the Army learns, and the ways in which we train against our doctrinal framework.”

So what has changed? An Army Command School has been established, of which Officer Cadet School New Zealand is a sub-element. The school also has a NCO and Warrant Officer Development Wing, and offers officer training as well as junior, senior and Warrant Officer leadership training. The schools within LOTC (Land Operating Training Centre) will continue to deliver their Trade and Corps-specific training along with key promotion and all arms courses.

COL Williams says it will mostly be business as usual with LOTC, TAD and ACS(NZ) while TRADOC command looks at how best to develop the tools and skills needed across the Army to fit with its operational and exercise needs and to learn from ourselves and other Armies such our as our ABCA allies. "We need to develop a learning culture across the complete training space, lessons learned, doctrine, Corps, Trade and indeed into the collective environment."

“It is our aim to provide the best possible training because good training is the foundation of everything we do, both individually and collectively. If we have an excellent base product coming out of the Army Depot and Officer Cadet School, and then it is enhanced as it goes through LOTC, we stand an excellent chance of achieving success with our collective outputs. We have to keep our fundamental first

THE MAN AT THE TOPEvan George Williams was born into an Army family, and

followed in the footsteps of his father the late Col Lindsay George Williams, when he enlisted in 1985.

He held several regimental appointments in the early part of his career, including Rifle Platoon Commander and Reconnaissance Platoon Commander, and a stint at the Waiouru Training Depot.

In December 1993 he was posted to an exchange post with the British Army as the Operations Officer 1st Battalion Royal Anglian Regiment. While on exchange, he deployed for an operational tour to Bosnia in 1995.

In May 1998 he was promoted and posted to the New Zealand Contingent Multi-National Force, Sinai as the Military Assistant to the Force Commander. He returned to 2nd 1st Battalion RNZIR and assumed the appointment of Company Commander B Company in December 1998. During this posting he deployed to East Timor with the 2nd New Zealand Battalion (2/1 RNZIR), United Nations Transition Authority East Timor from May to November 2000. Colonel Williams completed the United States Army Command and Staff College Course at Leavenworth from June 2001 to July 2002, graduating with a Master in Military Art and Science. On his return to New Zealand he was posted to the Tactical School, Waiouru as an Instructor and became the Chief Instructor in

BURNHAM

WELLINGTON

DUNEDIN

NAPIER

TAURANGA

AUCKLAND

3rd Auckland (Countess of Ranfurly's Own) xand Northland Battalion, RNZIR - HQ in Auckland

HQ Training and Doctrine Command (NZ)Army Command School (NZ):

Officer Cadet School xNCO and WO Development Wing x

The Army Depot:Recruit Company x

Combat School - Dismounted Operations Wing

Trade Training School x

4th Otago Southland Battalion, RNZIR x

7th Wellington Hawkes Bay Battalion, RNZIR x

6th Hauraki Battalion, RNZIR - HQ in Tauranga x

2nd Canterbury, Malborough, West Coast xBattalion, RNZIR

HQ Land Operations Training CentreTactical School xSchool of Military Intelligence and Security xLogistics Operations School x

WAIOURU

HOKOWHITU - PALMERSTON NORTH

COL Evan Williams

steps right and deliver the best possible product which

we can then enhance as our personnel progress through their

careers.”TRADOC, he says, will continue to develop a doctrinal

framework and contribute with the development of a working lessons process to inform contemporary training at an individual level to ensure personnel can do whatever is required when 1 (NZ) Brigade or HQ DJTF(L) are required to

2003. Colonel Williams has served as Commanding Officer 2

Field Hospital, which then became 2nd Health Support Battalion. During this posting he deployed to Banda Aceh, Indonesia as the Senior National Officer, in response to the tsunami disaster, from January to February 2005. He has held the appointment of the Director Training and International Commitments, Army General Staff Wellington, and in May 2008, took up the appointment of Military Secretary (Director of Officer Career Management). In December 2011 on promotion to Colonel, Colonel Williams assumed the role as Commander, NZ Army Training and Doctrine Command, in Waiouru.

WANGANUI5th Wellington, West Coast, Taranaki xBattalion, RNZIR - HQ in Wanganui

School of Military Engineering xSchool of Artillery xSchool of Signals xCombat School - Mounted Operations Wing x

LINTON

deliver either on operation or on exercise.“TRADOC is training a thinking Army, and we have to get

people thinking about more than just their trade, their branch or their Corps. We want our people to start thinking of the effect they have in the wider environment, and that’s not something that can be taught on a trade-specific course. We have to be agile about how we train, as we can never guarantee our operational environment or threat – it could be in close or open country, urban, mountainous or extreme desert.”

The Headquarters of TRADOC will remain in its current location of Waiouru until December 2013 when it is expected to move to Hokowhitu. LOTC is already ensconced in either Linton or Hokowhitu. In addition, HQ TRADOC is heavily involved in Programme Moawhanga which is looking at options regarding the right-sizing of the Waiouru Camp as part of Army 2015 and beyond. This programme will inform both the future footprint of Waiouru and the future locations of TRADOC's units. "It is important we get this right so that we keep the good in what we do throughout the process."

Finally, TRADOC has taken on the command of the Army’s six Reserve Infantry units which this year are to be formed into three Reserve Infantry Battalions.

“They won’t be required to deliver a (Regular) battalion output, but will be charged with delivering an infantry-focused output, with very clear, well-defined core skills. I see a bright future for our Reservists and believe the amalgamation of units will see them reinvigorated with an improved sense of belonging.”

COL Williams says he is looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead.

“I have always enjoyed training. It’s great to see someone arrive who knows very little about what the Army does, and at the end of 16 weeks we deliver a soldier. Instructors get a lot of satisfaction out of that and so do I as a commander. You can see a clear result for your effort. And our instructors take real pride in what they deliver.

"The key challenge I am looking forward to is how to actually put in place the tools, processes and organisations that will enhance learning and that will train a thinking Army!”

08armypeOpleissue 430 | april 201208armyTrainingissue 430 | april 2012

wOrKing TOgeTHer fOr TOp air careArmy nursing officer Captain Dave Greenhough of the

Aviation Medicine Unit, RNZAF Base Auckland, teamed up with Squadron Leader Jude Telford recently to train RNZAF Boeing 757 cabin crew in first aid and aero medical (AE) evacuation procedures. The pair ran in-flight practical scenarios for various members of the crew, and tried to inject realism and practicality into the training, reports Dave.

Dealing with medical emergencies in-flight is a common occurrence. There will be many a traveller who has been delayed or diverted from their destination as a result of a medical incident. In the course of their duties RNZAF aircrews may have to respond to in-flight medical incidents. In-flight aircrew medical responsibility was identified as an area for additional training. To meet these needs a specific Cabin Crew First Aid Course was designed by the Aviation Medicine Unit in conjunction with 40 Squadron.

The course provided theoretical and practical training on managing common medical conditions such as: motion sickness, anxiety, trapped gas, ear and sinus pain. The course also covered the emergency management of sudden collapse, cardiac arrest and deteriorating respiratory conditions in-flight.

During the practical phase of the course a component was carried out onboard the aircraft during a flight. This training was run by aeromedical evacuation instructors working through simulated scenarios using on -board medical equipment. The crew got hands- on experience with patient moving and handling, managing an arrest with airway management, chest compressions and using a training AED.

The in-flight training was well received and the crew got to experience the practicalities of dealing with medical emergencies during a flight. The 40SQN Aircrew and Pilots were very enthusiastic and demonstrated great team work and professionalism during the training.

Looking to the future, there is potential to develop the Cabin Crew First Aid Course and roll it out to Aircrew on other Airframes.

Research into in-flight medical incidents suggests that up to 159 incidents occur per 1 million passengers carried. In a global context IATA figures predict there to be about 3.8 billion passengers being moved by aircraft per year by 2014.This equates to approximately 604,200 medical incidents in-flight a year by 2014.

In addition to the numbers of medical incidents it is important to consider the aviation working environment. Once in flight the air craft cabin can be considered a remote environment. This remote environment is made unique and complex by altitude, trapped gas, fatigue, noise, reduced oxygen levels and potential delay to definitive medical treatment.

While on the ground in New Zealand, when a medical emergency occurs in a metropolitan area we can expect St John’s to attend fifty percent of all 111 calls in eight minutes and 95% of calls within 20 minutes. However if a medical incident occurred in-flight there would be an inevitable delay to get the aircraft on the ground. Extended time in the air

means prolonged medical responsibility on the aircrew and use of limited resources.

In-flight aircrew medical responsibility was identified as an area for additional training. To meet these needs a specific Cabin Crew First Aid Course was designed by the Aviation Medicine Unit in conjunction with 40 Squadron.

Defence TO funD THree bans cOunTry-wiDeThe New Zealand Defence Force has decided to fund three military bands to provide musical support at ceremonial events around the country.

The Navy Regular Force Band, based at Devonport will be responsible for providing music for all events in the upper North Island, while events in Wellington Central will be covered by the Wellington-based Air Force Territorial Force band. South Island events will have music provided by the Army Regular Force Band, based at Burnham. This band will also be used in the lower North Island, where the Air Force Territorial Force band is unable to fulfil the commitment.

As part of the structural change, seven part-time bands - four Army Territorial Force bands and three Air Force Territorial Force bands - will be no longer be funded by the New Zealand Defence Force, saving more than $2.6 million over five years.

Army and Air Force will work with the Territorial Bands around the possibility of ongoing affiliations, associations and transfer of existing bandspeople into the other trades within the Territorial Forces.

Chief of Defence Force, Lieutenant General Rhys Jones, said the new structure will ensure that the musical requirements of major ceremonial events in New Zealand will continue to be met.

“Military bands are an important part of our military history and make a significant contribution to the NZ Defence Force, New Zealand Government, and local communities. We will be prioritising events like Anzac Day and other important occasions to ensure they still receive coverage.

“While we are adopting a new structure, military bands will continue to have a presence throughout the country and provide musical support at ceremonial events,” said Lieutenant General Jones.

The decision was made after a consultation process which invited submissions on the proposed new structure. More than 130 submissions were received and considered as part of the consultation process.

Changes will be implemented by the end of June 2012. For further information please contact Defence Communications Group Media Phone - 021 487 980

From left, F/S Denise Bull, SQNLDR Jude Telford (AEE Instructor) CAPT Dave Greenhough (AME Instructor) SGT Rosie Masters and SGT Natalie McDonald.

F/S Bull, SGT McDonald and SQDLDR Telford SGT Rosie Masters at work

FLTLT Dave Gardner, FLTLT Garret Brown, and CAPT GreenhoughFrom left, FLTLT Brown, FLTLT Tim Pevreal, FLTLT Nathan Barrack, SGT Jeff Collings and CAPT Greenhough.

The first two Light Guns (L119) to be rebuilt under a project conducted between New Zealand and Australian Defence agencies completed live firing activities during Exercise Spotty Bulldog in March.

The exercise was attended by representatives from the NZDF’s Capability Branch and Directorate of Land Equipment Management, and the Joint Logistic Unit (Victoria) of the Australian Defence Force, who saw the live firing and also conducted quality assurance inspections of the guns.

The Light Gun Rebuild Project takes advantage of the reliability and utility offered by the Light Gun and will rebuild the fleet so that its service life extends through to 2030. The project commenced in 2010, with the first guns being sent to Australia in 2011 to be rebuilt by Australian facilities at BAE Systems, Bandiana. This offers benefits to both New Zealand and Australia, with the New Zealand Army being able to retain its artillery capability at a fraction of the cost of buying a new system, and the Australians able to keep their maintenance facilities staffed and working at a time when they are transitioning between gun types for their own artillery.

The rebuild of the guns includes the inspection, repair or replacement of all major assemblies such as recoil mechanism, buffers, recuperators; and painting the gun to its original colour while integrating of all authorised NZ Army approved modifications. The guns will be rebuilt in four tranches, with the final guns to be returned in 2015.

The Commanding Officer, 16 Field Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel Matt Weston, shared his enthusiasm for the rebuild project. “One of the most tangible benefits for 16 Field Regiment is that we will have an increase in availability and reliability of our Light Guns for both training and operational purposes.”

The rebuilt guns also offer savings for the Army’s annual operating budgets. Mr Lance Leroux, Equipment Manager, Weapons Systems, Directorate of Land Equipment Management notes that, “Equipment Management for the Light Gun will be reviewed and amended to more effectively

support the Light Gun and provide value for money through rationalised inventory and increased availability and reliability. In essence, the service intervals will change to 12-24 months from the current 9-18 months.”

The rebuild of the Light Guns, in conjunction with the medium mortars, will maintain the Army’s indirect fire capability. The Army will maintain a proven and effective

weapon system in service, and it will also form the basis for current and planned enhancements to the offensive support capability. A further benefit of this project and the visit to Exercise Spotty Bulldog is that it maintains the strong relationships between the New Zealand and Australian Defence Forces.

spOTTy bullDOg fielDs rebuilT guns

armypeOple09issue 430 | april 2012

armyTraining09issue 430 | april 2012

nOn-leTHal weapOns exTenD cOmmanDers’ OpTiOns

wOrKing TOgeTHer fOr TOp air care

The NZ Army hosted the 2012 Non-Lethal Weapons Executive Seminar (NOLES) where it promoted a greater understanding of non-lethal weapons and technology in the Asia-Pacific region.

Non-lethal, or “less lethal” systems as they are known in New Zealand, are weapons and devices designed to incapacitate a target while minimising fatalities or permanent injury.

The NZ Defence Force’s Land Component Commander, Brigadier Mark Wheeler, said NOLES was an annual multilateral seminar sponsored by the US Marine Corps Forces Pacific. Keynote speakers this year discussed topics including International Human Rights Law, the Laws of Armed Conflict, and planning considerations for the

employment of less lethal weapons.Approximately 75 participants attended from 19 countries,

making it a significant multi-national engagement with representatives from the wider Asia-Pacific region, exposing participants to current and future less lethal weapons capabilities.

“It is becoming more commonplace for military forces to be operating in conflict zones where they are required to maintain law and order, control civil disturbances, or respond to rapid changes in levels of violence, where the use of lethal force may not be justified or permissible,” says Brigadier Wheeler.

“Less lethal weapons provide military commanders with more options. They can be used to disperse large groups of hostile people, stop or disable vehicles, or deny access to

important facilities.”According to Brigadier Wheeler, the use of less lethal

technologies provides security forces with the ability to counter non-traditional threats, while mitigating the effects on the civilian population and the environment.

This was the 10th year that NOLES has been held. The initiative is designed to promote awareness of non-lethal (or “less lethal” in NZDF terminology) weapons as well as develop techniques, tactics and procedures to maintain order in low-intensity or civil unrest scenarios encountered on operations.

NOLES is an annual event and each year the US co-hosts the event with another country in the Asia - Pacific region. Last year the seminar was co-hosted with Thailand.

Crowd control procedures being demonstrated on the Trentham Range.

Soldiers conduct vehicle check point activities utilising less lethal techniques.

10armypeOpleissue 430 | april 2012

army mOVers: Working with mates on the side of a mountain

engineers celebraTe 110TH birTHDay

The Corps of Royal NZ Engineers (RNZE) celebrated its 110th birthday with a ceremonial parade and a variety of activities on 24 March. The parade was held in the School of Military Engineering parade ground parade ground opposite the 16 Field Regiment Headquarters, and the capability display was in Velvin field next to the RNZE Museum.

Operational and Long Service Good Conduct Medals were presented to Regular Force and Reservist personnel, and 1 Field Squadron (ARes) was reintegrated back into 2 Engineer Regiment.

The Armed Forces Award was presented to Officer Commanding 25 Engineer Support Squadron Major Alistair Mitchell. The award is presented to officers who have completed 15 years full time service, and whose character and conduct have been irreproachable.

Certificates marking 20 years’ service to the RNZE were presented to Warrant Officer Class Two Brams Bramely,WO2 John Flintoft, and Sergeant Maurice Low

The RNZE Museum, which is run by a charitable trust and owned by the NZDF, was rededicated and reopened as part of the celebrations, and a RNZE capability display involving World War 2 era vehicles was held.

Officially the museum has never closed but it required a number of significant refurbishments therefore access was limited while these were completed.

The facility includes a chronology of the RNZE Corps, beginning from the early New Zealand wars to the present time. Every key campaign and war is detailed, and the museum contain more than 1000 items relating to the Corps. The museum’s library has an extensive reference collection.

Part of the museum has been set aside for general use, and includes a lecture room and training facility.

Entry to the museum is by arrangement.

By Private Luca Godinich, Movement Operator, 3 Transport Company

On the 17 February Sergeant Peter Van der Vlerk from 5 Movements Company in Linton and I deployed to Mt Cook Village. Our task - in conjunction with 3 Squadron RNZAF, Department of Conservation (DOC) and the New Zealand Alpine Club - was to remove the derelict De La Beche hut by building underslung loads to be lifted out by the Iroquois helicopter. The De La Beche hut is located 1600 metres above sea level, beside Tasman Glacier in Mt Cook National Park. It was built by relatives and friends in 1979 in tribute to those who perished in a thunder storm on 19 January 1930. It has been used over the years by climbers for shelter as they explore the National Park.

Due to weather delays we flew to the hut accompanied by two DOC personnel on the afternoon of the 19th and started load rigging immediately as we only had a two day window of clear weather to complete the task. After a memorable night staying in a rock bivouac we were back rigging early Sunday morning to finish the underslung loads. The rigging was quite challenging due to the amount of debris and also the limited area in which to build loads. In total there was 12 loads lifted from the hut site, with only the orange frame left at the site for a potential new hut to be built there in the future. The

task ran smoothly throughout and highlighted the excellent interoperability between 5th Movements Company and 3 Squadron, RNZAF.

The remains of the hut are prepared before being removed by the RNZAF Iroquois.

George Butcher, ex K force, and WO1 Dirk Millar CSM 1 (NZ) Brigade discuss the Korean War display at the re-opening of the RNZE Corps Museum

Colonel Commandant RNZE Anthony Wilson unties the sappers knot to re-open of the RNZE Corps Museum

Colonel Paul King presents Campaign and Service medals to some of the troops of 2ER (2nd Engineers Regiment). The parade at Linton also marked 110 years of the Corps of Royal NZ Engineers and the re-opening of the RNZE Corps Museum.

armynews11issue 430 | april 2012

nz army sOlDier sysTems DeVelOpmenT By Lieutenant Colonel Vern Bennett, Deputy Director Land

Capability DeliveryWriting in his blog in May 2011, Deputy Chief of Army

Brigadier Charles Lott spoke of the soldier as a system, and one that is becoming more complex as it links in with other Army capabilities. This view of the soldier as a system underpins NZ Army’s capability development, and Soldier Systems forms the initial element of all land capabilities. This focus supports soldiers to be fit to fight (based upon their equipment, training, and related factors of human performance), giving us the ability to appropriately equip ourselves to meet the demands of our various missions, locations and tasks; while also ensuring that the kit that we give the soldier can be used alongside Army’s other capabilities - such as LAVs, new vehicles acquired through the Land Transport Capability Programme, or as part of the Network Enabled Army.

We consider a number of issues when developing our Soldier Systems. We have a relatively high operational tempo which provides an imperative to introducing new equipment, but we have to balance these immediate demands with the more deliberate plans conducted as part of our formal capability development. The NZDF has a wide range of tasks in diverse parts of the world which means that our equipment has to be able to function in a variety of physical environments and mission types. Finally, the technological advances in soldier systems come at an increasing cost and we need to ensure that we get the right stuff at the right time - focusing on what we need to do the job rather than spending lots on product development. To this end we focus on acquiring and adapting proven military-off-the-shelf and civilian-off-the-shelf systems (MOTS and COTS) that we can employ effectively for operations and training. We do not lead development – our focus is being smart in applying what’s available.

The components of the Soldier Systems capability are the same as used by other Western and NATO nations. Within the NZDF we define them as:

Lethality. This is the means to apply lethal and less-lethal •effects. The NZDF In-Service Weapon Replacement/Upgrade Programme (ISWRUP) is currently upgrading, replacing or

acquiring ten weapon systems that provide both lethal and less lethal effects, and move away from previous closed architectures to ones that can mount the full range of modern sighting and night vision equipment.Protection. We have invested heavily in protection over •the past few years through the Soldier Survivability Programme of Equipment (SSPE). This has provided new helmets, ballistic eyewear, and improved body armour, complemented by specialist equipment - such as updated riot control and less-lethal equipment - to support operations in a wider variety of contexts. We are about to commence acquisition of Active Noise Reduction systems while also acquiring additional SSPE.Situational Awareness. This component encompasses the •ability to see what is going on and then tell people about it. The focus within situational awareness so far has been through the Night Vision Equipment programme which is a rolling programme conducted year by year to increase and then maintain our night vision capability. Key elements include night vision goggles and improved night aiming devices, with both thermal and image intensifying in-line weapon sights being provided to certain appointments within infantry sections and other small teams. We have recently commenced the second phase of this programme with additional night vision goggles, weapon sights and hand held observation devices to be acquired over the next four years. The communications aspects of situational awareness will be developed in conjunction with the Network Enabled Army programme.Mobility. The mobility component concerns what the soldier •wears and carries. We have implemented an Improved Combat Clothing System programme to introduce an updated scale of layered components that enable the soldier to survive, fight, and complete mission specific tasks in the various environments in which they may operate. The clothing system will also be complemented by improved load carrying systems (packs and webbing), which will again be mission-specific and designed to fit in with the various levels of protective equipment worn. Support. The support items help to sustain the soldier •

and their ability to function effectively. Current projects include improved personal support items (such as first aid kits), individual illumination (both visible and Infra Red), and individual and section water treatment systems.

The concept for Soldier Systems development. The outer ring represents the elements of the capability while the inner circle outlines how we use it.

When we acquire and introduce Soldier Systems we •use the PRICIE system operated by Defence Capability (Personnel, Research and Development, Infrastructure and Organisation, Concepts, Information and Equipment). However, when we consider how we are actually going to use the soldier systems, we have developed the following principles:Training. The new soldier systems and equipment are more •technologically advanced and require specific and regular training to maintain proficiency in using it.Attitude. Technology enhances our capabilities but it does •not replace our basic skills and attitudes. We are soldiers first and the Soldier Systems are there to help us to do our jobs.Equipment. The equipment is provided to meet the users’ •requirements. The focus is on what we need; not what looks good in brochures.Procedures. We can only maximise the full use of the •equipment when we employ relevant Tactics, Techniques and Procedures (TTPs) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Taking shortcuts with the procedures can compromise the effectiveness of the Soldier Systems themselves.Support. We need to make sure that we look after the new •systems and report damages and faults as they occur so that all of the equipment can be maintained. This is particularly important for equipment held in centralised locations.Integration. Each element of the soldier system is •introduced as part of an integrated capability that is designed to work together rather than as ad hoc purchases. The Soldier Systems Development is being conducted •within Capability Branch by the Land Combat Capability Working Group and a specialist delivery cell within the Directorate of Programme Delivery, Capital Acquisitions in Defence Logistics Command (Common Lines), and the Directorate of Land Equipment Management in Defence Logistics Command (Land). The policy for developing and maintaining the Soldier Systems is conducted by various elements of Army General Staff, Capability Branch and Defence Logistics Command. These agencies coordinate current Soldier Systems work and will develop the next programme to be conducted as part of the Defence Capital Plan, due to commence delivery in 2015/2016. In the meantime the focus will remain on SSPE, Night Vision Equipment, the In-Service Weapons Replacement Upgrade Programme and support for current operations. We will have articles on key programmes and projects in forthcoming editions of the Army News.

issue 430 | april 201212armynews

refresHing THe regimenT

16TH fielD regimenT’s refOcus

By Lieutenant Colonel Matthewston, CO, 16 Field RegimentAs part of Army 2015, NZ Army’s 16th Field Regiment (16 Fd

Regt) was tasked with refreshing its roles and functions in line the Chief of Army Major General Tim Keating’s vision to Operationalise the Army.

In essence this has seen the Royal New Zealand Artillery (RNZA) embark on a plan to increase its utility across a broader range of conflict types and operational situations.

Undertaken in a holistic manner, the project includes work on operating concepts; Training, Tactics and Procedures; locations; structures; trade models; and individual training.

Alongside this piece of work, the RNZA in conjunction with NZ Defence Force Capability Staff have continued to develop and modernise the RNZA capabilities – presenting an exciting opportunity for the RNZA to transform itself into a force multiplier that will enhance the Army’s ability to both meet its operational outputs and assist in the creation of optimal joint effects.

HybriD baTTeriesThe most visible aspect of this change is the restructuring of

16 Fd Regt into 3 Hybrid Batteries (Btys) - two Regular force (161 and 163 Btys ) and one made up of Army Reserve (11/4 Bty). The Btys have a unique structure in that mortars and guns are integrated into the same sub unit. Additional new capabilities including Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), Civil Military Cooperation (CIMIC) and Information Operations (IO) will also be added to the mix. The Btys of the future will be capable of completing traditional artillery tasks such as neutralisation of direct fire systems or disrupting infantry formations, as well as producing less kinetic effects more appropriate for stability and support operations. Essentially the Bty will offer the Combined Arms Task Group (CATG) Commander a full range of capabilities, systems and effects to select from, that are best suited to the environment, threat and mission at hand. The Hybrid Btys will be agile and scalable, able to provide a flexible grouping that can deploy via NZ Defence Force transport assets.

funcTiOnaliTyKey Hybrid Bty functionality of the future will include:- Surface to surface fires. This includes planning, command

and control of up to six 105 mm guns or twelve 81 mm mortars, or a mix of both. The Bty will also assist integrate, coordinate and at times control the direct fires systems available within the CATG and any coalition indirect fires that may be available.

- Coordination and control of joint fires. The application of fires provided by coalition air and maritime force elements are integrated with land manoeuvre via the Joint Offensive Support Coordination Centre (JOSCC) and Joint Offensive Support Teams (JOSTS) provided by the Hybrid Bty. This includes the provision of Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACs) and Joint Fires Observers to control and coordinate aerial platforms.

- Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR). The Hybrid Bty will provide ISR to the CATG via deployment of JOST in overwatch and surveillance roles and via the use of UAS in a reconnaissance role. The mini UAS will be focussed at fulfilling information requirements of the CATG Commander.

- Battlespace Management. The JOSCC and JTAC element of the Hybrid Battery will provide the CATG a link into coalition airspace coordination with the air component elements deployed. The JOSCC will ensure that airspace is managed in such a manner that ground manoeuvre and surface to surface fires are deconflicted from flight routes and coalition joint fires. This is an area of increasing importance as the NZDF seeks to engage in amphibious operations.

- Targeting. The JOSCC will take a lead on the Targeting process within the CATG on behalf of the CATG Commander. The targeting process is part of staff planning and ensures that key targets are selected and prioritised, acquired at the right time with the correct asset and that the appropriate effect is then applied to them. A full range of kinetic and non kinetic effects are planned for as part of this process, tying in kinetic

fires, IO and CIMIC.- IO. IO is an integrating function that seeks to achieve

information dominance on the battlefield. The JOSCC will provide an IO planning function to the CATG. The JOSCC will be largely focussed at directing efforts to influence key players and organisations within the operational area.

- CIMIC. The Hybrid Bty of the future will be able to provide teams trained in CIMIC operations. Their efforts will focus on liaising with civil agencies and groups to identify opportunities for military assistance that will enable the CATG Commander’s mission. The conduct of CIMIC will in part be synchronised via the targeting process. The actual execution of military assistance is likely to be conducted by subject matter experts such as engineers, medics, educators or legal staff.

wOrK TO DaTe:The RNZA has commenced its journey to create Hybrid

Btys with the functionalities described above. 161 Bty has integrated both 105 mm light Gun and 81 mm Mortars within the same sub unit, and live fired on Exercise Spotty Bulldog. 163 Bty is also working to integrate UAS within its operations.

New functionalities such as IO and CIMIC are now taught within School of Artillery Courses. The current focus is to deliver individual training to build competency within these areas so that collective training can commence in training year 2012/2013. For more senior RNZA personnel a CIMIC/IO education week is being planned for July 2012. Selected personnel are attending overseas courses in both disciplines to develop greater subject matter expertise and to prepare for specific operations. A new trade model has been developed that includes these new skill sets.

As a result of the Refresh Project 39 Mortar Bty was closed in December 2011 with the RNZA pers and equipment being centralised in Linton and the RNZIR members largely returned to 2/1 RNZIR. A JOST has remained in Burnham to provide Offensive Support advice and liaison to 2/1 RNZIR. Additionally 11/4 Bty was transferred from ANR to under command 16 Fd Regt in Dec 2011.

THe fuTure: 161 Battery will be assessed for DLOC by Dec 2012. This

assessment will be largely focussed at confirming readiness in the provision of traditional fire support tasks with both 105 mm light Gun and 81 mm Mortars. As greater individual competence in new functionalities is developed then the Btys will be assessed accordingly.

An important first step in achieving DLOC across a broader range of capabilities is describing how the Hybrid Bty will work. 16 Fd Regt and the School of Arty have commenced drafting documents to describe how the RNZA will operate. These documents will aim to provide a basis for future work with Army and NZDF to confirm operating concepts that can then drive future development.

Concurrently, NZDF Capability Staff in conjunction with the School of Artillery and 16 Fd Regt are working to complete the introduction into service of the new indirect fire prediction system (IFPS), rebuild the light guns and acquire new survey and positioning systems. Other projects include ongoing development of sensor capabilities including UAS, replacing meteorological equipment and the provision of input into the medium vehicle replacement program.

summary:Having commenced the project in Dec 2011, the RNZA has an

exciting opportunity to generate greater utility in a wider range of situations than was possible in the past. Whilst we are only at the first stage of our journey progress has been made due to the enthusiasm of Gunners of all ranks to embrace their role in this transformation.

exercise spOTTy bullDOg

Gunners from 161 Battery, 16 Fd Regt recently honed their gunnery skills in WAIOURU on Exercise Spotty Bulldog. This was an RNZA - and possibly a world first – the Bty deployed and fired both 105mm Artillery and 81mm Mortars. As part of 16 Fd Regt’s leap into the future with the creation of Hybrid Batteries, gunners now man both weapon systems within the same Bty. This proved to be an interesting yet achievable challenge and was met with enthusiasm and valuable input from all personnel involved.

Manning and equipment dependant, each of the two RF Hybrid Btys will be able to deploy six guns or up to 12 mortars, or a task dependant mix of both. This means that we will be able to effectively tailor make a package that best suits the force elements we are supporting – increased flexibility at no additional cost to the user.

Ex Spotty Bulldog was largely technical by design and with an emphasis on learning the ins and outs of both weapons (mainly mortars), and associated deployment and C2 considerations, the exercise commenced with mortar sub-cal rounds and progressed from there. Deployment areas ranged from sand to hardstanding and back to mud, and basic familiarisation missions on each weapon were followed by more complicated activities.

Whilst not necessarily reflecting what the TTPs will eventually be, the Bty executed scenarios that were designed to draw out weapon employment limitations and lessons and enhance user confidence and competence. The guns provided illumination for the mortar HE, both weapons were fired concurrently, at separate targets, and rapid deployments were practised for both.

As part of the exercise live fire support was provided to W Coy, 1 RNZIR via a number of BHEs. This provided a good opportunity to practise close cooperation with mounted forces.

As a first hit out, the results were better than expected. Although we don’t claim to have mastered the art of employing both weapons we have certainly learnt a lot and are now very well placed to improve further and also try new options on EX ALAM HALFA.

BC 161 Bty

armynews13issue 430 | april 2012

When Private Len Manning was shot dead in Timor-Leste nearly 12 years ago, it was New Zealand’s first combat casualty since the Vietnam War. He was well-liked by his colleagues and superiors, and after working in the country for several months the young soldier had grown to love and respect the people he was trying to protect.Now, thanks in part to Len’s parents Charlie and Linda, and a

group of like-minded Kiwis, a group of Timorese youngsters have a much brighter future. Colonel Martin Dransfield, the current Chief Military Liaison Officer, United Nations Mission in Timor Leste, and PTE Manning’s Commanding Officer when he died, explains.

Len served in Timor Leste in 2000 with the Second New Zealand Battalion. He had a special empathy with the Timorese people, and in particular with those he worked alongside in Tilomar and Fatumean. This was reflected in a series of pencil drawings he made whilst he was on patrol in the border region. He sadly lost his life on 24 July 2000 whilst protecting the people he had grown to love and respect.

In 2002, his parents Charlie and Linda set up the East Timor School Trust, that was boosted to $7000, when $5000 was raised at a charity concert in Putaruru put on by Kiwi music stalwarts Ritchie Pickett, Larry Morris, Suzanne Lynch, Tom Sharplin, Ted Clarke, the Exponents and Hello Sailor. The concert was hosted by Mike King and included a song performed by the former Minister of Defence Mark Burton. At the time Charlie described the fund as their (Charlie and Linda’s) “ability to carry on where Leonard left off. He was a great humanitarian and we know he would have wanted us to do something like this. In a way, he's set it up for us."

Over the years the fund continued to increase, reaching $14,000 at one point. Initially the trust helped to refurbish the Baer school in Suai, and then supported two students from Cova Lima to attend Dili University. The focus was then given to students from Cova Lima to attend courses at the Dom Bosco Technical College in Baucau, which is in the East of Timor Leste.

I visited the College in February 2011, and was informed that the last of the students sponsored by the Trust had just graduated. I was also advised of a similar place in Cova Lima, where the Kiwis were based from 1999 till 2003.

I soon visited the Claretian Training Centre that is located in Maudemo Suco, Tilomar SD, Cova Lima District. It was

established in 2005, and provides vocational training opportunities to students who have not completed primary, pre-secondary or secondary schooling as a result of family circumstances, such as the death of a parent or lack of funding.

I discovered an exciting set up that provided a 12 month course that qualified its students in one of the following: carpentry, electrical/solar panel installation, sewing/tailoring and hospitality. I was particularly impressed by the eight graduates I met who had won the contract to install the electricity cables between Suai and Salele, while another five were already installing electricity cables in the Casabauk Suco.

I contacted Charlie and Linda Manning with a proposal to select students from the areas that Len had served, namely FAUTUMEAN and TILOMAR, and to send them to the Centre in 2012. They immediately agreed that we would create the Len Manning Scholarship Project for Students to attend the Claretian Training Centre in 2012.

In January 2012 a number of candidates completed two days of activities that included a test, short essay writing, small team activities and an interview. The activities were a great success and I was particularly impressed by their ability to problem- solve and to work in small teams. As luck would have it two other groups also wanted to contribute to this project, namely the soldiers of GYRO 11 and the Military Christian Fellowship, so we were able to select 12 students (eight girls and four boys) to attend the 2012 course. We selected the students based on region (priority to Fatumean and Tilomar), need, and ability.

The 12 selected were: Cristiano from Lalawa, Tilomar, who has 7 siblings and wants to be Suco Chief; Agusthino from

Maudemo, Tilomar, who has 6 siblings, no parents and wants to be a carpenter; Petronela from Fatumean who has 5 siblings, no parents, and wants to be a teacher; Veronica from Fatumean, who has 5 siblings, no parents, and wants to be a doctor; Domingas from Fatumean, who has 6 siblings, no Mum, and wants to be a teacher; Emiliano from Maucatar, who has 5 siblings, no Mum, and wants to be carpenter; Angelito from Fatumean, who has 9 siblings and wants to be a carpenter ( selected to be sponsored by OP GYRO 11); Saturnina Amaral from Fatumean (Belulik la Kraik) 4 siblings and is studying sewing; Manuela Amaral from Fatumean (Belulik la Kraik), 5 siblings and studying sewing; Judite Amaral from Fatumean (Belulik la Kraik) and 8 siblings and is studying sewing (selected to be sponsored by OP KORU); Cesaltina Amaral from Suai, 7 siblings and studying hospitality; and Elsa Amaral from Suai Loho Rai, has 5 siblings, is studying hospitality, and wants to be a Member of Parliament. (Selected as the scholar being sponsored by the NZDF Military Christian Fellowship).

I have visited the Manning Scholars three times this year and each time I notice that their confidence has grown and that they have a real sense that their dreams are now becoming possible due to this fantastic opportunity.

The journey is not over though, as during the selection process I asked one of the girls what she would do with her tailoring skills, and she said she would make school uniforms. I immediately realised that she had not only a good idea, but had realised a need. We are now looking at the possibility of sponsoring the girls to set up a small business to produce uniforms for the local schools.

It is wonderful to be part of a journey that was started by Charlie and Linda and has already provided many young Timorese with the opportunity to learn and use skills that are so desperately needed in their new country. I would also like to thank those soldiers from GYRO 11 who gave so generously and of course the NZDF Military Christian Fellowship.

len manning’s legacy liVes On in TimOr-lesTe

Elsa Amaral, Judite Amaral and Manuela Amaral learn to sew.

Agusthino Rino, Cristiano de Oliviera Lino, Manuela Amaral, Colonel Martin Dransfield, Judite Amaral, Domingos de Araujo and Major John McCreadie.

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issue 430 | april 201216armynews

By Corporal Joseph Seconi Why would 30 infantrymen and a RNZN medic walk 27km in

the scorching 35 degree heat of Timor-Leste? Why? This is a question that many of the soldiers and officers who completed the walk asked themselves during the eight hour ordeal.

It was to build "a sense of achievement" Major Steve Challies, current Officer Commanding of GRYO 12, told the soldiers and NCOs of the infantry platoon only days beforehand. It was a "chance to prove to our Australian brothers that the humble Kiwi solider can still carry a pack weighing 30kgs, and march for a sustained period of time." The soldiers did just that, and proved to MAJ Challies that they could indeed walk for a length of time and distance to achieve a goal.

In the early hours, the Infantry Platoon under the command of Lieutenant Matthew Singleton moved to a pre determined drop off point somewhere in the central regions of Timor-Leste. From this point, the order of "we are walking back to Dili" was given, and the walk commenced. Within minutes of starting,

By Private Arapeta BrownOne of the many roles for the infantry soldier here in Timor

other then sentry, is to go out and visit the local villages in the outer regions of Timor- Leste. Every month or so, an infantry platoon from ANZAC Company gets tasked with this long range patrol which are called Regional Engagement Patrols (REP). Our platoon was tasked with a REP to an area called Ermera. Ermera, which is in the central highlands of Timor-Leste has hundreds of smaller villages, which the platoon visited. It has been many years since ANZAC soldiers had last been in the Ermera region, and we received a warm welcome from everyone we met. Under the command of Lieutenant Matthew Singleton, the sections split from the platoon and were

allocated several villages to visit. Each day on the patrol we would go and visit a new village

and meet with key leaders. These leaders were usually the village chief (suco) or a police officer from the PNTL (Timor-Leste police) While my section commander would conduct these meetings, we soldiers would spend the time playing soccer with the local kids. We tried to build a positive vibe in every village, and judging by the smiles on the kids faces, we did this well.

It was a good chance for the section to get out and about and mix and mingle with the locals. It was a busy seven days that was enjoyed by every member of the section.

engaging wiTH THe lOcals -THe infanTry plaTOOn.

Sally Blackler, who is raising money for CanTeen, passed through the North Island recently as she retraced the footsteps of her late husband Sergeant Nathan Blackler, who walked from Auckland to Christchurch eight years ago.

He finished at Burnham Military Camp, just outside of Christchurch, raising $65,000 for the Child Cancer Foundation along the way. Nathan, who was in remission from cancer at the time of his walk, decided to complete the fundraising mission as a way of giving back to some of those who had helped him through his journey with cancer.

Sadly Nathan’s cancer returned and he passed away on March 23, 2007.

Now, five years later, Sally, her good friend Corporal Natasha Donaldson and her fundraising team, Sisters in Arms, have taken up the challenge again, this time with the funds raised going to CanTeen. Sally, a social worker for Challenge 2000 and Youth Development Unit (YDU) South, says CanTeen is a cause close to her heart. “I have so much admiration for the way young people tackle cancer with such strength and resilience,” she says. “No-one should have to face that journey alone. CanTeen is a vital service for young people who need support when facing the challenges of a cancer diagnosis whether that’s as a patient or sibling.”

Sally’s walk began on Friday March 23 from CanTeen’s National Office in Auckland, where she was joined on her first leg by friends, family, CanTeen members and supporters. Over the following six weeks she will walk more than 1000 km, around 30 km a day, with seven rest days in between, and will reach her destination, the Youth Development Unit Parade Ground at Burnham Military Camp on May 1.

Donations can be made to Sally’s fundraising group, Sisters in Arms, www.sistersinarms.co.nz or by calling 0900 4 CANTEEN to make an automatic $20 donation.

For more information visit www.sistersinarms.co.nz

there were two key leaders in the platoon who set the pace. Lieutenant Rimoni Leota and Private Christopher Wagstaff both egged each other along and kept the rest of the platoon trying to catch up with them. The mandatory hourly stops were a welcome chance to drink some water and readjust soldiers’ packs. The final 4 kms were indeed the hardest. In the heat of the day, with limited cloud cover or trees, the soldiers made the final long and painful dash for the finish line. To his credit, Officer Commanding ANZAC Company, Maj Spencer (ADF), who walked with the soldiers, finished in high spirits saying that it was good to "be one of the lads again"

All the soldiers and officers that completed that walk, can hold their head high. That day, we all achieved a goal, and proved ourselves to our Australian brothers! A special thanks must go out to our support staff, namely Warrant Officer Class Two Richard Clutterbuck, and Staff Sergeant Lawrence Colvin. The Pinzgauer that you drove to the rear of the soldiers was a consistent reminder not to give up, and to soldier on.

a lOng walK

sally’s walK well unDer way

Soldiers rest awhile after their walk.

Getting to know you: soldiers hang out with the locals

Sally and CPL Natasha Donaldson with soldiers who joined them for part of the walk.

Commanding Officer TRADOC COL Evan Williams and WO 1 Titch Mortiboy help Sally with her fund-gathering.

armynews17issue 430 | april 2012

1nzsas regT selecTiOn cOurse

1st New Zealand Special Air Service Regiment is now conducting two selection courses annually , one in January and the other in May/June. These courses are strategically placed on the training calendar to allow successful candidates to commence training following selection. The selection course is designed with two specific ‘gates’ relevant to the candidates intentions. Candidates who wish to serve in the Regiment as a Badged operator (SAS) or as a Commando (CDO) will all start on the same selection course. For CDO applicants to be selected for further training they will need to successfully complete Days 1-4 (1st gate) of the selection course. SAS applicants will need to successfully complete Days 1-9 (2nd gate) to be selected for further training. Commissioned applicants will need to successfully complete the appropriate Officer Testing when they have reached their specific gate. Below is a basic day to day breakdown of the NZSAS Selection course, Gate System and application process.

Pre-Selection Equipment checks, confirmation of basic military skills and psychological tests.

DAY 1- 4 1NZSAS Regt Fitness Testing and Mixed Terrain Navigation

CDO Officer TestingDAY 5 - 9 Close Country Navigation and other

activitiesSAS Officer Testing

GATE 1: On successful completion you will be considered for further training to attend CDO Training Cycle.

GATE 2: On successful completion you will be considered for further training to attend SAS Training Cycle.

Application ProcessGo to the NZSOF Intranet Site which will detail specific •dates and required documents.Conduct a medical examination MD918 through your •regional medical cell.

yOur leaDersHip can cHange liVes…in nz

Do you need a change from your current role/workplace?Does influencing and providing leadership and motivation to the Youth of New Zealand sound like something you want to contribute to?Come be part of the team at the NZDF Youth Development UnitThere are positions for LCPL / CPL (E) and Junior Officers throughout the country in Auckland, Trentham and Christchurch

persOnal DeVelOpmenT fOr

experiences

sKillsrewarDsTHaT will lasT a lifeTime

The challenges are REAL. The job satisfaction is IMMEDIATE.The Youth Development Unit is an opportunity to gain some real leadership experiences and develop yourself professionally within the Inter and Intra

Personal Domain The experience is CHALLENGING, REWARDING and FUN As part of a Tri-Service team you will be training and working

with youth across a range of activities, disciplines and experiences, while gaining qualifications and developing real leadership experience in a challenging environment.

Are you up to the challenge?

TAKE THIS OPPORTUNITY FOR A POSTING TO ENHANCE YOUR LEADERSHIP ABILITY AND HELP THE YOUTH OF NZContact your Career Manager or Command Warrant Officer, Youth Development Unit on Dix’s email shane.maslin2@nzdf.mil.nz or DTELN 337 7210. Next Staff Induction course is 21 – 25 May 2012

in Burnham. Apps close 11 May 2012Check out the YDU SharePoint site for an application: http://org/nzdf-yd/default.aspx

Complete a G1 NZ Army RFL through your regional •gymnasiumComplete all fields on the application form AFNZ 3 •and forward it through your chain of commandDownload and begin the 1NZSAS Selection course •training programmeMake contact with the 1NZSAS Regt recruiter to •check on your application process and answer any questions Arrange travel to Papakura Military Camp and prepare •for the start of pre-selection.

1NZSAS Regiment Recruiting Cell SGT B. MARAKU I RENNIE LINES I PAPAKURA MILITARY CAMP

E: brett.maraku@nzdf.mil.nzC: 021 743 096http://awi-teams/1NZSAS/

issue 430 | april 201218armynewsseniOr pTis; THe firsT TO cOmpleTe THe ‘bacHelOr Of spOrT anD exercise’ Degree THrOugH massey uniVersiTy.

firsT nz TraineD bamiyan respOnse plaTOOn graDuaTes

Physical Training Instructors (PTIs) in the NZDF conduct three major training courses before achieving a full qualification as an NZDF Physical Fitness Instructor. This starts with a single service selection board where individuals are assessed in endurance, strength, power, speed, functional skills and attitudes to become a New Zealand Army PTI. If accepted for further training they then attend the 22 week Primary trade training course held at the DPE & RT School in Woodbourne. Upon successful completion of this course they are provided with an Offer of Service and if accepted become members of the New Zealand Army Physical Training Corps (NZAPTC). After that, they are posted to a gymnasium for on the job experience for approximately 18 months and then return to the school for their final 15 week residential course; The Advanced Physical Fitness Instructors course. This is an academic based course

Mens Sana I n Corpore SanoA Sound Mindin a Sound Body

NZAPTC Civilian QualificationsNZAPTC Civilian Qualifications

National Certificate in

Fitness (Group Fitness

Instruction)

Level 3

National Certificate in

Fitness (Group Fitness

Instruction)

Level 3

National Certificate in

Fitness(Foundation

Skills)

Level 2

National Certificate in

Fitness(Foundation

Skills)

Level 2

National Certificate in

Fitness(Exercise

Consultant)

Level 3

National Certificate in

Fitness(Exercise

Consultant)

Level 3

National Diploma in Fitness(Applied)

Level 5

National Diploma in Fitness(Applied)

Level 5

National Certificate

in Community Recreation

Level 3

National Certificate

in Community Recreation

Level 3

National Certificate in Community Recreation

(Programming and Event

Management)Level 4

National Certificate in Community Recreation

(Programming and Event

Management)Level 4

National Certificate in Comm Rec(Prgming & Event Mngt)

Level 5

National Certificate in Comm Rec(Prgming & Event Mngt)

Level 5

National Diploma in Comm Rec(Prgming & Event Mngt)

Level 6

National Diploma in Comm Rec(Prgming & Event Mngt)

Level 6

National Diploma in Comm Rec(Fac Mngt)

Level 5

National Diploma in Comm Rec(Fac Mngt)

Level 5

Intermediate OJE

Senior - Advancd OJEPrimary Trade Training Advanced

Trade Training

Bachelor of Sports Studies(Massey University)

CoachingManagement

Exercise Prescription

1/3 RPL

Bachelor of Sports Studies(Massey University)

CoachingManagement

Exercise Prescription

1/3 RPL

Diploma in Exercise Science

(Otago University)

1/3 RPL

Diploma in Exercise Science

(Otago University)

1/3 RPL

Joint Services Physical Education and

Recreational Training Diploma

(Otago University)

Joint Services Physical Education and

Recreational Training Diploma

(Otago University)

concentrating on exercise physiology, fitness test design, advanced programme design, kinesiology, research and data gathering.

Throughout these courses a large quantity of the training is theoretical, particularly on the Advanced Course. Through the efforts of the team at Army Qualifications, an agreement was found between Massey University and the NZDF to provide accreditation for six papers towards the Bachelor of Sport and Exercise based on the learning outcomes achieved on both the Primary and Advanced PTI courses. From this, PTIs have the option of applying for tertiary studies toward either the Diploma in Exercise Sciences or the Bachelor in Sport and Exercise.

Qualification pathways:

WO2’s Greg Mildon and Jason Keno, the first NZDF PTIs to gain this qualification extra-murally. This took them over 10 years to achieve and although significant time was spent after hours, the result is extremely rewarding. It provides them with a civilian recognised qualification giving them and the NZDF credibility when attending internationally recognised health

conferences and learning establishments. In addition to this it also provides a qualification they can use for employment beyond the NZDF.

The NZ Defence Force has helped local security forces in Bamyan Province, Afghanistan, take another step in their capacity building with the graduation of their first National Police Provincial Quick Response Force (PQRF) platoon.

Training the Afghan National Police to take over the role currently performed by NZ Defence Force military patrols is an important part of the transition strategy.

The graduating class of 28 recruits is the initial tranche of what is intended to be a company-strength of over 100 Afghans. Over the next 12 to 18 months this company will be developed by the NZ Provincial Reconstruction Team (NZ PRT) and NZ Police.

Sergeant Justin Carter, a member of the NZPRT team training the PQRF, said he was impressed by the platoon’s progress and their level of commitment and dedication.

“The NZPRT training team recognised very early on the importance of winning the hearts and minds of the policemen we would be training. We formed a very close professional working relationship and bond with our students.”

The platoon trained for three months in a number of skill areas from the basics of first aid, navigation, radio communications and weapon handling, to comprehensive training in military tactics in order to defeat insurgent threats and respond to high risk contingencies.

Commander Joint Forces New Zealand, Major General Dave Gawn, said the PQRF has been designed, equipped and trained to be a tactical response capability for Bamiyan province.

“The PQRF are trained to a significantly higher standard in military tactics than routine ANP,” he says. “The development and training of the PQRF has progressed exceptionally well to date, but there is still a long way to go. Continued progress and momentum is required over the next one to two years to fully develop the PQRF capability.”

Bamiyan was the first Afghan province to hold a transition ceremony in July 2011, marking the transfer of provincial level security and responsibility back to Afghan control. The NZ Government and the NZ Defence Force are committed to support the transition process to ensure a smooth and measured handover of responsibility.

The NZPRT is currently led by civilian director Richard Prendergast, and continues to support long term development, peace and security by facilitating reconstruction and assisting in the provision of a secure environment in Bamiyan.

WO2 Greg Mildon with partner Pam Perkins.

WO2 Jason Keno with Major Brendan Wood.

LTCOL Steve Taylor and MAJ (Rtd) Steve TaylorTwo Army legal officers who share the same name usually have plenty to discuss when they meet. Lieutenant Colonel Steve

Taylor and Major Steve Taylor were both long-serving Territorial Force officers before they transferred to the Regular Force. Now one is replacing the other. “Saves getting a new name plate on the door,” one quipped. Major (Rtd) Steve Taylor has been released from the Army and has gone into private practice. LTCOL Steve Taylor replaces him as Assistant Director Legal Training and Assistant Director Legal Services (Wellington)

armyTraining19issue 430 | april 2012

1 nz sas regimenT sHare lessOns learneDfirsT nz TraineD bamiyan respOnse plaTOOn graDuaTes

Recently members of 1 NZSAS Regt visited camps throughout New Zealand to speak with various units, namely 1 RNZIR, 2/1 RNZIR and The Combat School. These discussions focused largely on key lessons learnt from recent counter insurgency (COIN) and combat operations in Afghanistan.

The reason for the brief was to ensure that the Army’s Combat School, Combat Units, junior commanders and enablers likely to deploy with a Combat Team are armed with the most important information gained from NZSAS Regt’s experience of recent years.

The scope of the brief covered information on environment and the enemy in theatre; an individual skills package focused on both equipment and individual drills; and a command package focused on lessons learnt from small group tactics and coordination within the Area of Operations (AO).

Staff Sergeant Glen Savage, an instructor at The Combat School, said the discussions provided

good examples of the benefit gained from detailed xplanning, rehearsals and coordination prior to tasks. x

These briefs were designed to fit within the Chief of Army’s intent to ‘Operationalise the Army’ during the Prepare, Advance and Engage phases of Army growth, which began in 2011 and will culminate in 2030.

In reference to this a Private from Alpha Company, 1 RNZIR said it was good to see that simple training and mastery of basic skills pays off in high risk operations.

The brief was well attended, particularly by 2/1 RNZIR who initially requested the brief in order to prepare its soldiers for upcoming deployments to Afghanistan.

The presentation’s theme focused on some fundamental points. Key to this was the fact that the basic skills taught within the NZ Army and to Combat Specialists serve us well while conducting combat operations in the most unforgiving of environments.

Keep it simple, coordinate and plan in detail, trust your training.

Who Dares Wins.

The NZDF In-Service Weapon Replacement/Upgrade Programme (ISWRUP) is Capability Branch’s Team responsible for upgrading and replacing the NZDF’s small arms fleet.

When the programme began in 2008 there were known capability deficiencies. At the same time, NZDF forces found themselves conducting a range of tasks ranging from crowd control in Timor Leste through to patrolling in Afghanistan.

ISWRUP was developed to ensure the NZDF’s small arms fleet across all Services is capable of delivering a broad variety of effects, less-lethal to lethal in order to promote a tactical advantage.

Additionally, ISWRUP projects enhance force protection and situational awareness through upgrades to capability such as sighting and target acquisition systems.

In short, ISWRUP ensures that our personnel are appropriately armed and equipped to succeed on modern, and future, battlefields.

The following information highlights key deliverables of ISWRUP, and tracks their current progress.

TacTical sHOTgun (Ts):The Benelli M3 (NZ) Shotgun capability, now known across

NZDF as the Tactical Shotgun (TS), commenced introduced into

service in Feb 11. This project is coming to a close with units conducting

transitional training and the final delivery date for associated pouches, slings and combat torches nearing. The project is expected to be completed in June this year.

7.62mm DesignaTeD marKsman weapOn (Dmw): The NZDF purchased a number of 7.62mm rifles in 2011 to

support current operations in Afghanistan and the weapon was introduced into service during Crib 18. The DMW was purchased as a specific operational requirement.

The lessons learned from the operational employment of this weapon will be used to support the acquisition and implementation of the full DMW capability within the Regular Force manoeuvre units, and supporting training establishments. This weapon system is intended to provide the section with precision fires and complement/support the effects of the LSW.

A business case for the future in-service DMW is currently being drafted.

7.62mm ligHT suppOrT weapOn (lsw):LSW are currently in the procurement stage with first

production run scheduled to commence shortly. The first batch of ancillaries (201 light weight ground mounts) arrived recently. At this stage, the project timeframes given in last

iswrup upDaTe – apr 12 edition of Army News remain unchanged and end users should see the phased withdrawal of C9 fleet from service and the 7.62mm LSW introduced into service over the last quarter of 2012.

THe iw sTeyr upgraDe: The business case for this project was approved in

November 2011, and a request for Registrations of Interest from manufacturers was released in March this year. Based on the response from industry, tenders will be called for and a manufacturer selected.

The upgraded IW Steyr will provide a modular weapon system with an open architecture and a range of ancillaries, providing operators with the ability to tailor their weapon to their mission or task-specific requirements. (For example, the ability to fit a range of night-vision equipment to the system.)

We will release updates around the acquisition of this capability as the process progresses.

sniper rifle replacemenT anD THe anTi maTeriel rifle: These projects are starting up early this year, with initial work

around the user requirements due to be finalised by mid-2012. Once the requirements have been identified, business cases for each of the projects will be drafted. Once again the end user community will be engaged throughout this process to ensure that we get a capability that best fills our user requirements.

OTHer prOJecTs: The remaining ISWRUP projects include the Short Range Anti

Armour Weapon (84mm) upgrade, the Personal Protection Weapon (pistol) replacement, the Sustained Fire Machine Gun tripod and target acquisition replacement and the Grenade Launcher (M203) replacement.

These final capabilities are due to be completed over the next 1-3 years. Programme staff are monitoring related developments amongst the other ABCA nations and in the defence industry and will continue to focus on delivering New Zealand soldiers, sailors and airmen world-class, operationally-proven equipment.

cOmmOn ancillaries:The NZDF’s future small arms fleet will have ancillaries that

will be common or similar in function and appearance between weapons. This will enable operators to move between weapon systems without having to relearn ancillary operation drills while greatly simplifying the logistics and fleet management systems needed to support the small arms capability.

Further and more detailed Capability Updates to follow in later editions of the Army News.

20armyTrainingissue 430 | april 2012

gHurKas receiVe gOOD grOunDing in Op pacific KuKri

One hundred and eighty personnel from the Ghurka Battalion of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces are in Burnham for Operation Pacific Kukri 2012. The exercise sees a company (C Coy) from the 2nd Royal Ghurka Regiment (2RGR) training at the West Melton Range and Tekapo Military Training Area for six weeks until 5 May 2012.

The exercise is being supported by 2/1 Royal NZ Infantry Regiment . 2RGR is using use of land areas here not available in Brunei, allowing for interoperability and development using the key training areas of West Melton and Tekapo. This allows the operational proficiency of their infantry to be practised and enhanced. Tekapo itself provides challenging conditions and terrain not readily available in Brunei.

By Sergeant Major of the Army, Warrant Officer Class One Danny Broughton.

We’ve got too many hats to wear and I don’t mean appointments!

J hat, wide brim hat, beret, baseball cap x 4, MRH, Lemon Squeezer, Helmet x 4, beanies x 3, neck warmers that could be a hat, shamaghs that could also be a hat, black ones, green ones, blue ones, desert cam, yellow ones, we got them all.

I get really confused when I go to parades because like everyone else, I’m waiting to see what hat the boss is wearing. So the boot of the car is filled with hat boxes.

There is no doubt that we need something that protects us from the environment, something for day to day, something for ceremonial, something that is uniformed and something that everyone wants to wear.

EnvironmentWhat we are talking about here are the combat and climatic

environments. Choice is important and leaders and soldiers need to ensure the appropriate headdress is worn for the climate that they are operating in. In developing the new combat uniform, Capability Branch has developed a hat (Boonie) that will replace both the jungle and wide brim hat. They have also developed a digi camouflage baseball cap that has a Velcro patch on the front. This will be a midweight hat and replace both the winter and summer weight black baseball hats. It will allow you to attach the Kiwi or similar patch to it for non combatant HADR type events and it can be removed if you were to step up to a SASO type event where camouflage is required for the task.

Day to DayWe are fixated on the beret for some reason. Maybe because

it looks good, it is easy to carry around and it is really robust. Unlike our mates across the ditch, there is certainly no intention to get rid of it. Unfortunately, it provides absolutely

no protection from the sun, unless you have a bald head. The new Boonie hat will provide another option as will the MRH. The point here is that the day to day headdress must be appropriate to the environment and leaders need to enforce this.

CeremonialWith effect now, we are going to one ceremonial hat and

that hat is the Mounted Rifle Hat(MRH). The Soldiers System

TOO many HaTs Management Group (SSMG) is conducting some research and development into getting us a MRH that is comfortable, waterproof, lighter and that can take a hammering. The Chief of Army and I have seen such a hat but we look forward to their research.

The wearing of the Lemon Squeezer is to be preserved in our Colour and Banner parties in the same way as the infantry and Scots SNCO Sashes are now.

Ghurkas train on West Melton Range.

Hats off to SMA: sorting the head covering issue out.

armynews21issue 430 | april 2012

The annual TUSSOCK BUSTER motorcycle trail ride held at Waiouru on the weekend of Friday- Sunday 23-25 March attracted 1,630 riders.

For two years in a row, TUSSOC KBUSTER has proved to be the biggest motorcycling event of its kind in New Zealand. OFFLIMITS is a registered charitable trust and its purpose is to raise funds for the promotion of NZDF sporting activities and to assist with soldier welfare.

The local Waiouru community received a cash injection of more than $150,000 from event attendees; the local community groups benefited by providing meals and other supporting activities and the OFFLIMITS trust raised a considerable sum via entry fees.

A number of soldiers took leave to attend TUSSOCK BUSTER and help on the days leading up to the event, and 65 Defence Force personnel attended the event as riding participants. The weather was favourable for the event with fine weather on the Friday and Saturday and some light rain Saturday night and early Sunday.

For some, this made the tracks slippery but for the majority, it just increased the fun they had on the wide open flowing tracks for which Waiouru is renowned.

Mike Ross, the event manager was particularly pleased with the high number of family groups in attendance. “This bodes well for the future and confirms that OFFLIMITS is providing a fun yet safe event for people of all ages regardless of whether

they ride motorbikes or quads,” he said.OFFLIMITS is beginning to develop scale and will be able to

offer significant long term benefit to soldiers and the wider NZDF said the OFFLIMITS chairman, Dave Greenslade.

“The trust is currently working with Commander TRADOC, Commander 1(NZ)Bde and their staff to develop a joint plan to ensure that a portion of the funds raised is used to rejuvenate tracks within the Waiouru training area so that there is better access for wheeled military vehicles for exercise purposes and for utilisation at OFFLIMITS sporting events.

“Work is starting with ensuring the tracks are more robust so they can be used by LAV, Pinzgauers, motorbikes and mountain bikes. Discussions are underway to see how other pieces of defence land can be used for safe community sporting activities.”

OFFLIMITS has a guided quad bike and 4x4 tour organised for Waiouru in coming weeks. According to Dave Greenslade, these are pilot schemes prior to cranking up the marketing machine in 2013 to grow the numbers and revenue generating capabilty of these events. OFFLIMITS’ success is timely in light of the defence funding cuts and the trust will work within the terms of its trust deed to find innovative ways to raise funds for soldier activities and welfare, he added.

“There is lots to do and the trustees and their supporters are focussed on long term success.”

TussOcK busTer

Waiouru’s several streams were forded.

Soldiers added to the fun with a tug o’ war.

Conferring in the mud.

Officials sort out the administration.

Competitors gather at the beginning of the ride.

Motorbikes are airlifted out of the Waiouru back blocks. Out the other side.

22armyspOrTissue 430 | april 2012

2012 nz army cycling club inTer regiOnal cOmpeTiTiOn

This year saw riders competing in Elite, Open, Masters and Challenge grades with a grading system catering for all levels of skill and experience. Cycling athletes who had raced at national and international level right through to riders racing in their first ever race took part. This year’s events had athletes competing in a Criterium Road Stage, MTB Hill Time Trial and Double D (downhill race) stage, graded Road Stage, Hill Time Trial followed by an Individual Time Trial (ITT) Road Stage, and a Cross Country MTB stage.

The first day of competition started in ideal conditions with high octane Criterium racing which produced some blisteringly fast efforts and sprint finishes by all riders. The Criterium race was included again as a stage due to its spectator appeal; a controlled course and the fast tactical riding required by teams and athletes. In the Challenge grade it was CPL Murray Kinnell (Southern) who went fast and hard from the start to dominate the sprints and the final finish lap ahead of LCPL

Isaac King (Central). For the Challenge females PTE Shanelle Clark (Central) dominated the lead with points coming out of the stage ahead of LCPLNoeline Popata. Open Females saw SGT Kelly Carter dominate the intermediate and final sprints points. In the Open grade, an early break by Damon Taylor and Matt Savage (Northern) while team member Aaron Tregoweth (Northern) controlled the chase bunch, allowed Northern to dominate to see Savage gain enough Northern points to come first ahead of Taylor. The Elite Grade provided some great entertaining and fast racing with riders tussling it out in a 30 minute explosive sprint race. Southern athlete, LTHamish Wright dominated the course as he has done for the last three years gaining enough intermediate sprint points and the final sprint to take first place.

The Criterium stage was followed in the afternoon by a MTB hill climb and a double D (Downhill stage) up and down a technically winding single track through the scenic

Despite operational tempo and other commitments, more than 55 competitive riders and officials made up of teams from Northern, Central, Southern and guest riders from the RNZAF lined up for the 2012 Official Inter Regional Road and Mountain Bike (MTB) Competition in Upper Hutt recently.

Wainuomata Mountain Bike Park. Highlights from this stage saw Elite athlete Rob Hoult (Southern) wind his way to get the fastest Elite time in the Hill Climb, and Emily Hume and Nerissa Chapman challenge themselves to battle it out in the Open Female grade to take out first and second place respectively. The Double D downhill proved to be a high-speed race stage with the fastest time ridden by Elite grade rider Maj Brett Grieve (Southern) in 6mins flat followed close behind by Open grade rider Oliver Smith (Northern) in a time of 6.02mins.

Day 2 was a day of road stages in the Whiteman’s Valley area in Upper Hutt with athletes competing in two stages spread throughout the day. The first stage was the road race where the undulating, roller coaster 35km loop course where speeds averaging between 35 – 50km/hr saw all grades and teams fighting for finishing positions. The female athletes combined into one grade in the road stage with Challenge females working hard with the Open grade. Given the generally flat course it was always going to benefit the sprinters. SGT Carter and PTE Shanelle Clark smashed the field and both took line honours in their respective fields. Colin Huston’s tactical positioning and riding in the Masters grade throughout with an aggressive sprint for the line ensured the Masters road title went to Central. The Elite grade proved to be a fantastic tussle with the main bunch staying together until the final kilometre. It was Southern riders who dominated with LT Hamish Wright and Mark Lewis taking out the final sprint in the final 400m to push out rival Northern and Central riders on the corner

Combined women and Challenge grade start the 35km race.

Dave Carmody battling the road hill time trial.

Final 300 metre for the elite grade: Hamish Wright leads the peleton.

armynews23issue 430 | april 2012

Tools – Auckland, JA Russell, Stewarts Electrical Lower Hutt, Blackwoods Paykels, VIC Cycles, Subway Upper Hutt, Countdown Upper Hutt, Whittakers Chocolate, Cycle Science – Upper Hutt, James Cook Grand Chancellor Hotel, Upper Hutt Cycle Centre, and Ibis Hotel,. A special thanks also to our Wellington Event Management team, marshals and officials including our BikeNZ National Level Commissaires.

The 2013 Cycling Inter-regional’s will be held in Linton to be hosted by Central region in April 2013. Further detail including other 2012 events for those interested in riding and joining the NZ Army Cycling Club in events later in the year can be found at the NZ Army Cycling Club Intranet Homepage:

http://communities/Sport/ArmyPages/Sport/Cycling/Homepage.aspx

Ride Safe, Ride to Win

leading in to the final 100m sprint. The remainder of the riders battled it out at the rear of the lead riders.

The road stage was followed in the afternoon with the Hill and Individual Time Trials, affectionately known as the Ride of Truth. These are demanding races with individuals competing against themselves, their bike and the environment. This year saw the inclusion of an Individual Hill Time Trial of 1800m up Wallaceville Hill which was then followed by an 8.4km time trial through Whiteman’s Valley. Hamish Wright gained the fastest combined time of 18.03mins in the Elite grade, Matt Savage fastest male at 19.21mins in Open Mens, SGT Carter fastest Open female in a time of 22.31mins, SPR Connie King the fastest female in Challenge grade in a time of 25.36mins. CPL Murray Kinnell was the fastest Challenge male in a time of 21.02mins, and Tom Hirst the fastest Masters male in a time of 19.20mins.

The third and final day was the MTB cross country around a MTB course in the Silverstream area after the Karapoti course became too unsafe to conduct the race. Many of the riders had also competed in the road stage so the legs were starting to feel heavy after two previous hard days of competition riding. However, this did not deter our graded riders from putting in fantastic efforts over a relatively challenging course. Highlights saw SSgt Jessop in Masters coming second behind Tom Hirst and Rob Hoult taking out first place over the course in a time of 1hr.34mins. The female duo team from Southern, Emily Hume and Nerissa Chapman battled it out for first and second place.

This year saw the annual Commissaire award presented to those riders who reinforced Army’s core qualities of Courage, Commitment Comradeship and Integrity and competed with enthusiasm throughout all road stages and in some cases saw riders competing in all Road and MTBing events. This year the award was presented to: LCpl Issac King and Lt Emily Hume.

Overall regional results for 2012 saw Southern for the first time win both the Road and Mountain Bike trophies. Detailed results including overall Individual awards and trophies for the competition can be found in the Army Cycling NZDF Intranet Site at the following link:

http://communities/Sport/ArmyPages/Sport/Cycling/2012interregional.aspx

Thanks to our 2012 NZ Army Cycling Club sponsors and cycling supporters in making this years Inter-Regional’s a major success: Bike Hutt of Upper Hutt, Pak N Save Upper Hutt, McDonalds Hutt Valley, Repco, Noel Leeming, Trade

Some of the members of the Southern team with their individual trophies and awards, and both the Mountain Bike and Road trophies.

SGT Kelly Carter in the road stage.

Andrew Thornton (Northern) during the Mountain Bike Cross Country stage.

24armypeOpleissue 430 | april 2012

If you did not know better, you would think they were from the same unit - such is the ease with which 3 Auckland North and 6 Hauraki Battalion soldiers, NCO’s and officers work and train together. No where and time was that more evident than in February when the two Battalions conducted combined field training in Waiouru.

3 Auckland North took the lead in planning the combined training. The organisation was simple – every component from the command post (CP), trainers and coachers, exercise sub-units, through to logistics support, was staffed with personnel from both Battalions. And whilst it was by no means the first time the battalions have trained together, that occasion was particularly significant because it demonstrated just how ready the two units are to adopt a combined 3/6 battalion organisation under proposed restructuring of the Territorial Force/Army Reserve.

The combined training programme conducted out of Helwan Camp was noteworthy for its many exciting, and for a lot of soldiers, new experiences.

There was time spent undertaking weapons effect training (WETS) in the Waiouru Simulation Centre where shooting skills were tested with the aid of computer generated scenario’s. WETS is valuable in providing direct feedback on individual weapon handling and marksmanship and also provided excellent preparation for the next activity – live fire.

Speaking of which, any opportunity to fire live rounds even if it is an Annual Weapons Qualification (AWQ) shoot, is always a welcomed one. The AWQ shoot was not just about

gaining a qualification. The shooting coachers used the three days allocated and took every opportunity to provide quality individual coaching. Eightyfive percent of those who attempted the qualification shoot passed. This confirmed the benefit of having shooting coaching and the value of WETS training before an AWQ. For soldiers who at best may only fire once in 18 months or so, that was a very good result and is testimony to time well spent by the coachers and a keen desire by the shooters to do well. Congratulations to Private McLeod (6 Hau) who scored the highest points.

The opportunity to also conduct an RFL fitness test could not be let go. Seventy-eight percent of those who attempted the 2.4 km run, press up and sit up test achieved a qualification. The youngest qualifier was Pte Tuii and the oldest was WO2 Andy Peters, both of 3 ANR. The RFL pass rate while not as good as that for the AWQ nevertheless provided another set of pleasing results.

These two tests and qualifications are sought out, particularly by Army Reserve soldiers who seek to be, or remain, eligible to deploy on operations.

Light Armoured Vehicle (LAV) familiarisation training courtesy of Whisky Company, 1 RNZIR, was another popular activity. Army Reserve soldiers know of the LAV but few have the

opportunity to scramble over, let alone train with them. The mounted route reconnaissance patrol of the training area provided the soldiers a good appreciation of what it is like to travel in and work with these vehicles and weapon systems.

Exciting as the LAV is, it struggled to out do an opportunity

to fly. Two UH1H helicopters from 3 Squadron RNZAF swooped in low and fast. Against the backdrop of a cloud shrouded Mount Ruapehu, 3/6 soldiers were familiarised with seating arrangements, safety procedures and then practised their 10 and 2 o’clock approach and exit drills. Upon receiving thumbs up from the crew, the CP gave the command for the patrols to mount and be airmobiled to the start of the field exercise. The rapid deployment to the start line was assisted by the soldiers having received their orders and completed battle preparation the night before.

A rendezvous with the well camouflaged logistics element provided a welcomed if not too brief respite as the patrols took shelter under the cam net umbrellas to complete battlefield administration. It was not long before they were off again in search of militia elements. And they found them. They were hiding in a village (better known as the UTF, the urban training facility) south of Ngamatea Swamp. The next day a slow search of the village and awkward interaction with ‘village people’ was soon replaced by screams and shouts as the patrol came under fire from a small militia element hiding in two of the houses. The excitement of fire and movement soon replaced any lingering discomfort from having been wet and cold. Hasty orders, regrouping, target indication (some good, some not so good) and by sheer weight of numbers and firepower eventually saw the ‘enemy’ resistance crushed.

The composition of an Army Reserve contingent is interesting for many reasons not least of which is the variety of backgrounds from which these soldiers come. The 3/6

battalion group was no exception – there were students, lawyers, truck drivers, self-employed, fisheries officers, NZ police, farmers, crop harvesting operators, contractors, Customs employees, and many others. The ease with which these soldiers come together and focus on the military task at

hand says much of the training they have received, the benefit of shared values, and the importance of good leadership. What is often forgotten is these Army Reserve soldiers have to seek employer agreement to get time off. There are also families who often give up precious family time so their dad, mum, or partners attend military training.

For those reasons alone it pleasing to hear soldiers leaving these training activities with comments such as ‘that was a good exercise’, and ‘I really enjoyed that’. This is key to keeping them interested, engaged, and trained for their role in the NZ Army. And on that note the 3/6 Battalion staff are congratulated for a job well done.

In addition to Whiskey Company, 1 RNZIR, and 3 Squadron RNZAF, special mention must also be made of the enthusiastic support of 1 Signals Squadron who provided excellent radio communication support and familiarisation training, and also 1 Health Support Company who provided essential medical coverage especially during the AWQ.

LCpl Tahitahi (3 ANR) pictured receiving shooting coaching and advice from SSgt Wanakore (6 Hau) was one of the qualifiers at the AWQ.

LT Hollis (3 ANR) a university student and SSGT McKie (6 Hau) a private contractor, man the exercise CP.

A camouflaged 3/6 combat service support element ready to distribute combat rations to the inbound patrols. In the foreground DVR Heta (3 ANR) a college caretaker, checks their position.

PTE Gamin (6 Hau), followed by PTE Joung (3 ANR), and PTE Bowmar (3 ANR) emerge from the mist after completing a reconnaissance patrol.

Colonel Evan Williams, Commander TRADOC shares some thoughts with the soldiers regarding restructuring proposals and Army Reserve service.

LT Eb a 3 ANR Platoon Commander and PR consultant in civilian life, cannot hide his excitement with having the door seat as he is ‘choppered’ into action.

3/6 baTTaliOn – TwO baTTaliOns wOrKing as One

armypeOple25issue 430 | april 2012

THe Occupiers: new zealanD VeTerans remember pOsT-war Japan by alisOn parrReviewed by Major Neil BleasdaleThis is an oral history, completed many years after the event

when survivors are few and memories are long. Yet, despite these restrictions, it is a good oral history.

It is Alison Parr’s second oral history and benefits from her experience as a historical researcher and extremely tight editing. It outlines why New Zealand had a presence in the occupation forces, what comprised that force, how we got to Japan, where “J Force” was stationed, etc. and what it did there (officially and unofficially). It concludes with the departure and eventual repatriation to New Zealand. The book covers reminiscences from front line soldiers and airmen, headquarters staff, WAACs and VAD nurses.

The numerous illustrations are sensibly placed and, along with Parr’s uniting commentary, complement the recollections, in a systematic, logical and very readable way.

One of the noticeable traits of this book is its honesty. On a personal level, those who freely gave their time have been forthcoming in talking about their initial attitudes toward the Japanese, and their experiences in fraternisation, drinking, and black marketeering. On a more public level, the unsavoury incidents that do not show New Zealanders in a good light are also in the book. These include the attitude of our own RSA towards J Force veterans when they returned home.

If I have a complaint it’s over the limited examination of what tasks J Force undertook. I believe that every task undertaken by J Force has been mentioned in the book. But considering that J Force was there for more than two years, many long-term

tasks seem to have been brushed over in a quick sentence, paragraph or single recollection. I suspect that my minor niggle is because of the small number of veterans interviewed, which in itself is not a fault of the authors making, but merely a product of time since the occupation.

There are many more stories from J Force that are not included in this book – the hijack of the Chofu train, the “initiation” of reinforcement officers who had been posted to Japan straight out of officer training units, dentures lost in “honey pots”, the splitting of the Officers Mess so that the Force Commander didn’t have to deal with those that did not meet his favour etc. And I’m sure that there are a great many more that are also not included. But perhaps their very non-inclusion makes this a balanced book. Alison Parr has steered a good course between having insufficient memories to illustrate her various themes and having so many vignettes that the books essential structure is lost.

My final observation builds on my opening comment – why do we wait until the last possible moment to collect our oral histories? It just doesn’t make sense. For a start, the number of veterans, and therefore the pool of memories and recollections, decreases as time passes. And it is a well documented fact that time alters memories, most often in a rose coloured way. We should be looking now at our histories from Borneo, Kashmir, Rhodesia, Singapore, Bosnia, Somalia etc. while we still have veterans from these operations/ military experiences, and this book serves as an exemplary example on how to put together and present an oral history.

Major Bleasdale is a serving Army officer, and the son of a J-Force veteran•

Army News reader David Weston of Lower Hutt is the winner of the two ANZAC books in last month’s Win a Book contest. The books, A Day to Remember by Jackie French, and The Horses Didn’t Come Home by Pamela Rushby, are for younger readers.

Sergeant Major of the Army, Warrant Officer Class One Danny Broughton proved he could multi-task when he tried his hand at hair-dressing in Burnham recently.

It was all for a good cause — Shave for a Cure 2012 held at 3 Workshop Company in Burnham.

With the help of WO 1 Broughton’s blog the word went around for people to offer to have their head shaved and to be sponsored at the same time. Burnham personnel certainly came to the party. At the end of the day there were a lot of bald heads, and well over $2500 had been raised for the Leukaemia and Blood Cancer Foundation.

gOing, gOing, gOne WO1 Broughton took the clippers to Paddy Whare’s head to raise funds for the Leukaemia and Blood Cancer Foundation.

26armyTrainingissue 430 | april 2012

By Major Mark Bateman, NZDF Threat Integration CellThe New Zealand Defence Force Threat Integration Cell

(formerly the C-IED Cell) met with several Government agencies and an international audience recently to discuss the threat posed by Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), and ways in which cooperation can help address the issue in the future.

This was the first event of its kind in New Zealand and was a further important step in developing relationships between the NZDF, department of Prime Minister and Cabinet and a number of other government agencies.

The Wellington conference included representatives from New Zealand agencies including Police, Customs, Air Security, Maritime New Zealand as well as Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the NZ scientific community, amongst others. Representation was also present from Australia, Britain, Canada and the United States.

The event was opened by VCDF and hosted by COMJFNZ who said the recent experiences with the Christchurch earthquakes, the Rena incident and the Rugby World Cup had clearly shown the benefit of a whole of government approach to resolving some of the major issues that face New Zealand.

“The IED is the number one killer of Service personnel around the world today. It is easily accessible to those who would seek to harm our nation’s interest and as we look to our forces leaving Afghanistan, we must learn to work closely with our partners and benefit from those that share security responsibilities both nationally and internationally, in order to ensure that New Zealand is prepared for whatever the future might bring.

“Those that threaten our nation’s security and national interests will be equally at home overseas or, with the right opportunity, on our own shores. This gives an uncomfortable relevance to New Zealand from a domestic perspective because those facilitating the use of IEDs form part of a broader threat continuum that militaries in isolation are not necessarily configured to deal with.

“The internationally, widely-held, pragmatic and realistic

Through the Army News, we have been able to share the stories of those who have been involved in or around IED incidents. As we move from Afghanistan back to the theatres of the Asia Pacific region, we must remain alert to the threat and understand why it is such an important part of our training delivery and our approach to the potential areas of conflict that we might face in the future.

M.A.BATEMAN MAJ Threat Integration Cell

view is that countering these threats requires an ‘all-of-government’ response. We cannot allow ourselves to be complacent or blind to this fact. The danger associated with individuals or groups using IEDs requires a unified approach and a multinational strategy, if we are to ultimately succeed in our efforts to defeat this threat. We have gained a lot of knowledge and lessons from our experience in Afghanistan, sadly some through tragedy, and it is important that we retain these lessons as our forces shape for the future. We must continue to engage with our partners in a meaningful way as it is the sharing of information, experiences and, where appropriate, resources that will enable us to understand the threats to our nation, its people and its interests, and ensure that we are best prepared to face them.”

The wide range of national and international experts meant that the conference was able to learn from the expertise and experiences of those in attendance. The series of working panels stimulated some excellent ideas on how we can share information and work together to face this and other emerging threats, particularly in our near region – the Asia Pacific.

Major Josh Wineera, a Massey University defence security advisor said that an IED can be used as an instrument of terror, it is an indiscriminate and insidious threat and, while it was recognised that IEDs, despite their evident danger to military personnel, are not yet a top priority for other security agencies in New Zealand, it was keenly felt that the sharing of information domestically and internationally is a key aspect of ensuring the protection of all New Zealanders.

“It is information that will help to shape how New Zealand is able to contribute to countering threats in a global sense and what will, in turn, ensure that our shores remain as keenly and well protected as they are now, by all those involved in the future security of our nation.

Despite the main focus of the conference revolving around the threat of IEDs, it was clearly recognised that this weapon system was simply one form of threat and that from a national security perspective New Zealand would be hard pressed to

focus and dedicate resources to this medium alone. However, many of the processes used in combating the IED

are equally applicable to any number of other threats and by working together to leverage off some of the security systems, processes and expertise that already exist within New Zealand’s security agencies, the impetus will be that much greater and the chances of an adversary succeeding that much reduced.

Many of our government security agencies have excellent records in dealing with emerging threats, be it through intercepting dangerous contraband such as drugs and weapons, or breaking threat networks in conjunction with other international agencies. These are national issues, threatening national interests and it is only natural that defeating the issues should be considered a national responsibility.

In order to ensure that NZDF keeps pace with this need for change, COMJFNZ has expanded the remit of the JFNZ C-IED cell into that of a Threat Integration Cell. Many of our international partners are seeking this type of approach within their own nations and through this conference, New Zealand has once again established itself as a lead player in the field.

Next month: A British victim of an IED tells his story

cO-OperaTing TO cOunTer THe c-ieD scOurge

armyspOrT27issue 430 | april 2012

One raam nOT enOugH fOr irOnman

North Is vs. South Is

Regional Hockey Open to All : Any Skill Level

Fun on and off the field guaranteed!

When: 16—20 July 2012 (Noms to POC by 6 Jul)

Where: Burnham

Point of Contact Burnham: CAPT Thorne & LT North Linton: SGT Carter & CPL Culver Waiouru: CPL Landers Auckland/Wellington: SGT Fredericksen & CPL Oien

Twenty-five Ironman NZ finishes are proof that Ron Skelton doesn’t know how to quit while he is ahead.

Now the West Auckland ultra-distance cyclist is taking on what he believes is the world’s toughest challenge again.

Last year, Skelton (53) became the first Kiwi to tackle the legendary Race Across America (RAAM) solo, rolling off the start line a few minutes before Wellingtonian Josh Kench.

And while his younger rival (38) beat him across the finish, Team Ironman also completed the 5000km ride across the

deserts, mountains and plains of the United States within the 12-day deadline.

The Massey truck driver and NZ Army reservist was overjoyed with his time of 11 days 13 hours 37 minutes, but is adamant he wants to become the first Kiwi to finish the race twice. He has already confirmed his entry in the 2012 event, starting in Oceanside, California, on June 13.

RAAM isn’t like most cycle tours, where riders get to rest overnight and begin their journey again by the light of day.

The clock keeps ticking, whether the competitors are on their bikes or not, most averaging just a couple of hours sleep a day in their bid to reach the Annapolis Naval Academy, Maryland, within the allotted time.

Three-time winner Wolfgang Fasching of Austria who has also climbed Mt Everest says the world’s highest mountain is more dangerous, but RAAM is physically, mentally and emotionally harder to do.

One of the minor disappointments of Skelton’s previous outing was that he passed through some of the route’s breathtaking scenery such as Utah Monument Valley and Wolf Creek Pass, the highest point through the Rocky Mountains in pitch darkness.

Photos: Jamie Till

issue 430 | april 201228armynews

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