SPECIAL OPS HONE SKILLS IN BLACK WING TRIDENT NIGHT VISION EQUIPMENT UPDATE - New Zealand Defence Force
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ISSUE 531
APRIL 2022
SPECIAL OPS HONE
SKILLS IN BLACK
WING TRIDENT
It’s all about working as a team
NIGHT VISION
EQUIPMENT UPDATE
What’s in store?
CHANGE OF
COMMAND
1(NZ) Brigade
TŪ KAHA COURAGE TŪ TIKA COMMITMENT TŪ TIRA COMRADESHIP TŪ MĀIA INTEGRITY
SMA.NET
ISSUE 531 APRIL 2022
Kia Ora to you all. I trust gymnasiums scattered throughout located in Trentham and elements
the Easter break and a New Zealand. The establishment located throughout each region
of JOHG was a massive change (Northern, Central, Southern).
NEWS period of leave in April process that required combining
Assistance to 02 has lifted the spirit. In this large numbers of personnel from
Ukraine month’s SMA space, it’s the three Services, with individual Our Mission
a pleasure to hand over Service cultures, traditions, and
Safety rules 03 ways of working. JSG’s mission is to provide
revitalized writing duties to one of the
The two Units that made up operationally prepared force
three Army Formations JOHG, known as the Deployable elements, conduct base support
PEOPLE – the first, a little less Health Organisation (DHO) and the operations, and support domestic
Change of command 10 known than its older Force Health Organisation (FHO), and expeditionary operations in a
at 1(NZ) Bde siblings at Brigade and each resembled a Battalion type joint, interagency and multinational
TRADOC. Joint Support ORBAT. DHO’s primary task was environment within designated
NATO award to new 11 to provide deployable capability, response times.
Groups (JSGs) recently whilst the FHO focused on Through this, as a Joint Enabler,
commander appointed Command WO, garrison health support capability. we enable the force to do what it
2/1 soldiers help 13 Vance Thompson takes us In July 2016 JOHG was needs to do.
Rannerdale veterans through some of the recent rebranded to the Joint Support
history, role and challenges Component Command (JSCC)
TRAINING of JSG. Enjoy the read –
and sat alongside the Land JSG – Who are we?
Component Command, Air
Foxhound 2 04 raise your awareness and Component Command, Special Many readers will be unsure what
continue to learn about Operations Component Command is part of JSG. JSG consists
Black Wing Trident 06
your Army. and Maritime Component of Navy, Army and Air Force
– SMA Command. Whilst NZDF Health contributing both military and
Alpha Koura 08
remained the core of JSCC, the civilians staff across most of the
Venom 16 intent was to cast its net wider following groups. and protocols. JSG personnel have
Joint Support across NZDF and include other Military medics, nurses, doctors, to be agile and resourceful in order
Reserve Forces 17 Joint Enablers under its command, environmental health specialists, for them to conduct their role
Group such as Joint Military Police (MP), dentists, dental assistants, physical effectively.
CAPABILITY “Myth vs Fact” Joint Fuels, Joint Movements, and
Joint Munitions. Whilst the concept
training instructors, military police,
civilian nurses, doctors, dentists,
Night vision update 18 Kia ora koutou, had its merits as a joint enabler, gym staff, civilian management and Moving Forward
I would like to take the opportunity the only additional capability that administration staff, military and
SPORT to talk about the Joint Support was likely to move into JSCC was civilian logistic operators, General As we move forward from
Group (JSG) and what it is about, the NZDF MPs. It was about this List Officers, and non-health Trade Operation Protect commitments,
Bodybuilding 23 as there is misunderstanding/ time a review of JSCC occurred, Warrant Officers and soldiers, our focus is now on Force
competition confusion across the Land Army. and it was decided that a single sailors and airmen. Regeneration. Regeneration
service needed to be a proponent concepts are being planned and
of this Joint enabler. In 2019, JSCC executed across NZDF. Each
Our History reformed under the sponsorship of Challenges single service will have their own
the Chief of Army to what we have ideas and priorities to regenerate
How did we get to where we are today, the Joint Support Group There are many challenges that their force. In many cases, these
now? In December 2015, a NZDF now making up the third NZ Army JSG has to navigate. A formation will all have a different focus. A
directive was released to establish Formation and reporting directly to made up of three different crawl-walk-run approach will be
the Joint Operational Health Group the Land Component Commander. Services with a significant portion critical to ensure capability and
(JOHG), which basically combined JSG has grown over this time, with of civilian staff, creates complexity. competency are achievable over
all NZDF Health personnel and the establishment of a Formation The language, single service a period of time that does not
capability, both uniformed and Headquarters located in Trentham, culture and traditions are a number compromise tempo or safety.
civilian, across all three services and the original units, the DHO of examples that requires constant JSG will need to support the
into one identity – JOHG. JOHG with its HQ’s and sub units in effort to understand to ensure three services as they retrain and
became part of HQJFNZ. Linton, Burnham, Waiouru and JSG succeeds. There are many re-calibrate their own capabilities
Two units were established Devonport. The FHO with its HQ in different ‘systems’ within the JSG and outputs, whilst concurrently
drawing from 2nd Health Support Trentham and elements in all nine environment which JSG personnel focusing on retraining and
Battalion, Devonport Health NZDF camps and bases, which have to become familiar with and building its own capability that has
assets and the various Air Force now includes the Joint Military successfully operate which are deteriorated over the past couple
Medical Treatment Centres and Police Unit (JMPU) with its HQ governed by single service policies of years.
Cover: Ready for action: Exercise Longtan.
Photo: CPL Naomi James.
A Royal From the United Kingdom, the
Hercules will fly between countries
New Zealand in Europe, picking up donated
military aid and transporting the
NZArmy Air Force C-130 cargo to destinations from where
Hercules and the stores can be taken by land
into Ukraine.
NZDefenceForce
crew have begun The movement of donated
transporting military aid around Europe is being
coordinated by an international
The Army News is published for the Regular
donated military coordination centre in Stuttgart,
Germany.
and Territorial Force and civilian staff of the
New Zealand Army.
aid bound for The New Zealand Defence
Editor: Judith Martin Ukraine from Force has deployed a group
Ph: 021 240 8578 E: armynews@nzdf.mil.nz of eight personnel, including
www.army.mil.nz
Printing: Bluestar, Petone.
centres in Europe. New Zealand Army logistics
Design: Vanessa Edridge, DPA, NZDF personnel and RNZAF air liaison
The Hercules left RNZAF Base and air movements personnel, to
Editorial contributions and letters are
welcomed. They may be sent directly to Army
Auckland with a crew of nine work as part of the international
News and do not need to be forwarded through personnel on board. team coordinating the logistics
normal command channels. Submit them to The The majority of the for donations, matching transport
Editor, Army News, DPA, HQ NZDF,
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approximately 50-strong Air to aid consignments, as well as
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Deadline instructions: Army News is published
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Nothing in the Army News should be taken as NZDF personnel will not be personnel is in addition to the New Zealand and the United
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overriding any New Zealand Defence Force deployment of NZDF intelligence Kingdom.
regulation. Readers should refer to the relevant of donated military aid destined A three-person advance party
service publication before acting on any
staff to the United Kingdom. A consignment of helmets, body
for Ukraine. is currently in the United Kingdom,
information given in this newspaper. As well, an officer is also being armour, radios and other equipment
Among this group are alternative where they are facilitating
ISSN 1170-4411 deployed to the UK Permanent was flown by military aircraft to
All material is copyright, and permission to flying crew, maintenance the arrival of the aircraft and
reproduce must be sought from the editor.
Joint Headquarters, and a liaison Europe and delivered to Ukraine.
technicians, and two air load assimilation of personnel into the officer will be working at a NATO The deployment of the Hercules
teams which will manage cargo Stuttgart coordination centre, headquarters in Belgium. and RNZAF detachment is for
loads for the aircraft. The two air before themselves travelling to The NZDF’s open source up to 60 days, while the logistics
load teams will also be able to Stuttgart. intelligence capability is being team has been deployed for up to
assist with cargo movements on The deployment of the Hercules, utilised to take advantage of 90 days.
partner military aircraft. air transportation and logistics time zone differences between
ARMYNEWS 03
Army to observe
A MESSAGE FROM
raft of safety
DEPUTY recommendations
The Chief of Army, Major General John Boswell, says he
CHIEF OF ARMY deeply regrets injuries caused to three soldiers during an
exercise at Linton Military Camp in August 2020.
The soldiers were undergoing We ask a lot of our soldiers and
riot training to prepare them for while it is important that they
peace-keeping duties when during are prepared for whatever task
the training, fuel was at one stage is demanded of them, we must
poured by a mock rioter from the ensure we keep them safe when we
top of a container on to the trainees prepare for such tasks.
In last month’s Army News, and further amplified by the current arms’ that CA envisages, and as I and ground below. “Here, we clearly failed them and
events in Europe. stated above, my challenge to you Two people were doused in that is not acceptable. We have
the Chief of Army, the Land
So, I pose a question to each individually. I don’t recall a time in petrol and then caught fire when a carried out a full Court of Inquiry,
Component Commander of you: as we strengthen our my career when we have had such molotov cocktail was thrown and to determine what went wrong
and the Sergeant Major individual and collective standards, an opportunity to influence and didn’t shatter where it was intended, with the training that night and
of the Army outlined where are we relatively against the shape our future and we should all instead bouncing into a container to establish better safeguards in
the challenges and various threats that we may find embrace this. wall, breaking, and starting a fire. future. The Court of Inquiry made
ourselves up against in our next Being valued and respected A third person was then burnt 12 recommendations and whist
opportunities of Army when one of the panicked soldiers one requires further assessment I
operational environment? I also should be a given in our
Regeneration. This plan challenge you to think and act on organisation. Camaraderie and ran into him. can tell you that we have, or are in
was formalised with the what improvements you can make trust are essential to any team, In a case brought to the the process, of implementing the
release of CA’s PLANORD or suggestions that will result in us even more so to one whose Palmerston North District Court remaining 11.
– Army Regeneration, on regenerating stronger and being purpose is to deliver lethal by WorkSafe the NZDF was fined “Nothing can put right the
operationally relevant sooner. effects – one that depends on $354,750 for failing to take steps injuries that were caused that
14 April 2022. By now, you its comrades to deliver in a time to protect the soldiers. The NZDF night, but since then we have both
I believe that the positivity CA
should have received more of need. Our strength comes was also ordered to pay $100,000 supported the victims and engaged
was describing requires all of
information and perhaps us to accept the challenge of from unity. Ki te kotahi te kākaho, emotional harm reparation, split in a restorative justice process.
briefings via your chain of regeneration and ‘own’ it, while ka whati, ki te kapuia, e kore e between the three soldiers harmed I have heard their victim impact
whati. This whakataukī says that during the incident. statements – they are right to be
command about how this striving for excellence in all that
we do. After all, we are all ‘the a toetoe stern cannot be broken MAJGEN Boswell said after the angry and to feel let down. I hope
will affect you. if it is in a group. I believe each court hearing the Army should have they can see how seriously we have
system’. While we need to now
and every one of us, you and I, done better to keep its soldiers safe. taken this. We can, and must, do
In my first Army News column pause, take stock and regroup,
should feel safe and be safe in our “I accept the judge’s comments better in the future.”
since I assumed the role of DCA, that doesn’t mean that we are not
place of work – both physically made in handing down this fine.
I want to reiterate and emphasise capable. Our strength comes from
our Army history, values, ethos, and psychologically. We should
some aspects of regeneration. In
Ngāti Tūmatauenga, our culture, have equitable opportunities and
his article, CA made the following
and most importantly from you, celebrate our successes at all
statement: “Soldiering must
levels. By embracing diversity of
be ‘more than just a job’ and it and your experiences however
thought we will be stronger and
requires that our workspace varied they may be. This is why we
more competent and capable as a
is one where positivity thrives, can approach regeneration with
professional organisation that can
the opportunity to strive for enthusiasm and with a view of each
deliver operationally.
professional excellence exists, and everyone of us making our
As Head of Operations in MIQ
and our people are valued and Army the Army we want it to be.
I worked in a flat structure, one
respected”. These three aspects Striving for professional
that encouraged collaboration
of this statement are what I want excellence is integral to being a
– I saw firsthand how powerful
to explore more fully. professional Army, focused on
this was. Although the Army is a
Our valued and critical support being ‘ready today, prepared for
hierarchical structure, I believe
to New Zealand on Operation tomorrow’. How do we achieve
we can and should engage more
Protect (which I saw firsthand professional excellence? You will
widely across the organisation and
as the Joint Head of Managed have all heard the terms continual
thereby empower you to be more
Isolation and Quarantine) provided improvement focus and striving able to positively influence our
us an opportunity to leverage and for better but is this enough? Our organisation.
hone our soft skills, being exposed organisation can keep making One final thought I would like
to diverse approaches as we improvements, but still lose ground you to consider. We are all leaders,
worked with other agencies and relatively. American computer from Lead Self through to Lead
organisations, from Ministry of scientist and professor Alan Organisation level. The actions
Health through to iwi and hapū. As Perlis stated that “Optimization of each of us, of you, influences
with any operation it has impacted hinders evolution. “ Evolution is others daily. From setting basic
us, individually and collectively. not improvement, it’s change – standards, holding others
Our collective readiness to meet the willingness to try new things, accountable for actions that
outputs has predictably dropped different methods, uncomfortable are not reflective of our culture,
and the regeneration plan will tasks. Organisations (at all levels) through to influencing policies or
address this, in the timeframe as succeed by becoming better at capability procurement. We are
outlined by LCC last month. As was executing existing strategies, ‘they’, we are ‘the system’, so if
pointed out, regeneration is both a focusing on increasing efficiencies you see something that can be
challenge and an opportunity for us and improving core capabilities. improved, do something about
all. We should however remember That said, when the environment it. Discuss it and raise with your
that while we are conducting changes (as is happening chain of command, take action
regeneration, the world remains in now), organisations succeed and make our Army stronger. Be
a state of flux, ever-changing and through innovation—developing an active part of our regeneration.
evolving, never static. The world and experimenting with novel
remains complex, uncertain, and strategies and shifting resources
challenging – all points highlighted to new approaches. I believe this is Brigadier Rose King
in last year’s Defence Assessment the professional excellence ‘call to Deputy Chief of Army
Sappers from the Corps of Royal
Friday 22 April marked 100 years New Zealand Engineers set out 300 crosses
since the first poppy appeal was of remembrance in the grounds of the Levin
held. It was moved online in 2020 due Home for War Veterans in the week before
to the pandemic, but it remains the Anzac Day.
longest continuously running appeal in
New Zealand’s history. Here, Brigadier The crosses represent WWI and WWII service personnel who
finished their days at the rest home.
Rose King accepted a donation in They are visited by the families of many former residents who place
exchange for a poppy from a member poppies and remember their loved ones. Many other people walk
of the public in Wellington. around them and read the names. Lest we forget.
• Army News will have full Anzac Day coverage in its May edition
04 ARMYMISSION
LINE OF
SIGHT
By Lucy Handford Quick on the heels of last year’s Private Handro Vermeulen, a attack onto the Burnham Urban
Photos: Corporal Dillon Anderson Exercise Foxhound 1, this follow-up rifleman in 6 Platoon – 1 Section, Training Facility which was the
training exercise took place over 2/1 RNZIR, was one of the fictional location of an insurgent
Taking over a compound, four days at Burnham Military
Camp, West Melton Rifle Range and
90 personnel taking part. He said
Exercise Foxhound 2 gave him a
meeting. Once the attack was
complete the Company then had
reinforcing it, controlling the Oxford Forest. The soldiers were
given a clear mission: to disrupt the
good indication of what he could
be doing if deployed overseas on
to quickly re-orientate and conduct
a Cordon and Search operation
location, setting up observation insurgents in order to secure the an operation. at West Melton Rifle Range. This
area of operations. “Foxhound 2 was an eye-opener planning cycle and two Company
points, patrolling at all hours of As well as preparing soldiers for me in that it wasn’t just kicking activities saw the Company certify
the day. These are just some of through battle procedure and the
execution of a variety of infantry
doors down, it was a realistic
exercise that gave me a better
that the NEA equipment enhanced
their ability to win on operations.
the tasks conducted by soldiers specific tasks such as fighting
patrols, deliberate attacks and
understanding of what I might be
tasked with on an overseas op,”
Officer Commanding of Bravo
Company, Major Alex Bowyer, said
from Bravo Company, 2nd/1st ambushes at individual, section,
platoon and company levels,
he said.
“Working in the urban
this exercise signals a clear intent
to get soldiers training in their core
Battalion Royal New Zealand Foxhound 2 required personnel
to assimilate skills required for
environment is my favourite and
this gave me the opportunity to get
skills again, while introducing some
of the exciting new capability that
Infantry Regiment, on Exercise peacekeeping missions including better and better at urban drills. the Army has procured.
the conduct of key leadership By far the most challenging aspect “While Covid-19 continues to
Foxhound 2. engagements, securing of vital was running security. When you’re present us with some challenges,
infrastructure and convincing the coming up to a couple of hours training and exercises in preparation
local population to support the lying on your guts and staring out to for complex operations is again
Army’s efforts. This was facilitated nothing, most soldiers would agree our key focus. Kicking off the year
through the use of the Decisive that it’s the least fun part, but it’s an with an activity like this, which
Action Training Environment important task that has to be done,” focused on infantry core skills,
(DATE), which has recently been he added. but in a complex scenario is just
adopted by NZDF and provides a Ex Foxhound 2 also provided the start. Now is an exciting time
comprehensive training scenario the Network Enabled Army to be soldiering, with the land
in which to immerse soldiers and (NEA) programme with a further components’ focus on re-generating
commanders. opportunity to test the Tranche 1 to be better than before Covid-19
Private George Engleback, a C4 capabilities being delivered to was a thing,” he said.
rifleman in 4 Platoon, 2/1 RNZIR, Land Component. The equipment
said a big part of the exercise was proved a success in a tactical
about the soldiers communicating environment, allowing commanders
effectively with civilians (acted by to plan and deliver orders quicker
role players). and more effectively and increasing
“We needed to defuse the their situation awareness post H-hr.
situation by communicating The action ramped up on the
effectively with the public about final day of the exercise with a
why we were there, and what our company attack to culminate the
role was. That ability to interact with activity and put the NEA equipment
civilians is a really important skill to to the ultimate test. This saw the
have, and this exercise put that to Company go into a deliberate
the test. Not all training exercises planning cycle with orders delivered
have that sort of public interaction the night before the attack. The
so Foxhound 2 stood out in following morning with support from
comparison to other, more kinetic a NH-90 from No. 3 Squadron, the
based exercises,” he said. Company conducted a deliberate
ARMYEXERCISE 05 “Foxhound 2 was an eye-opener for me in that it wasn’t just kicking doors down, it was a realistic exercise that gave me a better understanding of what I might be tasked with on an overseas ops.” – PTE Handro Vermeulen
06 ARMYTRAINING SPECIAL OPERATIONS A ‘TEAM SPORT’
ARMYTRAINING 07
By Simone Miller
20, 10, 6, 1… the loadmasters signal
to five wetsuit-clad soldiers while
the back of the C-130 Hercules
drops down over the Hauraki Gulf.
The rope is cut and an inflatable With Covid-19 interrupting many
Zodiac rolls off while the stick exercises, this year’s Black Wing
of special operators jog off the Trident exercise allowed the units
aircraft, spread star-shaped, to to conduct currency activities in an
follow the craft to the sea. inflatable assault boat airdrop which
Black Wing Trident is just one had not been completed since the
exercise showcasing the training Covid-19 pandemic began, setting
and capability of the NZDF’s the scene for more advanced
land and air forces, aiming to training to happen later in the year.
ensure certification of C-130 “Unfortunately not a lot of
crews, while dispatching Special aerial delivery opportunities have
Air Service operators and boats happened lately courtesy of Covid-
onto the surface of the sea. Five 19. The 5 Mov Coy air dispatchers
different sub-units with more than were keen to get stuck in and brush
10 different trades, across two off their rigging skills while also
services, came together to achieve updating their repertoire of rigging
a collective output. uncommon loads for air drop. The
“Within the Regiment we are exercise will allow units to conduct
very fortunate to work with NZDF’s more advanced training scenarios
major platforms. On this activity in the future and will help in the
No. 40 Sqn was able to parachute continued success when working
us and our boats into the ocean together on operations,” says the
to enable us to go and do our job. TG6 Mov Op.
Doing things like Black Wing Trident No day is the same within the
really demonstrate how Special NZSAS and operators are always
Operations is a team sport. looking at advancing their skills,
“To make this activity work it finding more learning and training
required a significant joint force opportunities, and increasing their
team. Pilots, navigators, parachute ability to be highly interoperable
jump instructors, crewman, S and S with Navy, Army and Air Force units.
riggers, moveops, signalers, “To soldiers, sailors or airmen
engineers, logisticians, SAS and the who are unsure if they could
list goes on,” says OC A Sqn. contribute to 1 NZSAS Regt, I’d
The exercise practises infiltrating say all skills and trades contribute
the coast from the sea, while to the success of the mission.
avoiding detection from land, and We really enjoy working with our
moving a significant amount of colleagues in RNZAF as there is
equipment for the tasks ahead. The a real shared sense of purpose
aircraft flies southeast to the drop working with operational air units.
zone, with the launch occurring 35 It’s a lot of fun working with mates
nautical miles off the horizon. More across Services and seeing how
than 2,000 pounds of equipment everyone’s contribution makes
can be carried by boat. operations work. We are lucky
And while it may seem like a that this is something we get to do
normal day in the office for some, often,” says OC A Sqn.
the skill required is second-to-none, If you’re interested in challenging
with risks that personnel could drift yourself, are highly motivated
or be injured during the jump, or and have a desire to work within
that equipment could fail, making 1 NZSAS Regt, register your
the accuracy of the drop zone and interest now by completing an
boat rigging essential. AFNZ 3 found at http://org/nzsof/ THE NEXT SELECTION FOR THE
One of the highlights of this LP/NZSAS.aspx or emailing
1 NZSAS REGT
activity for me was seeing the SASRec@nzdf.mil.nz.
complexity of tasks the 5 Mov team
worked through. Their role was
not simple by any means, and it
was excellent to see the accuracy
and skill that went into ensuring
the boats were rigged and then
dispatched correctly. Every boat
O C TO B E R 2 0 2 2
was perfect, a testament to 5 Movs’
skill. “They were awesome,” says
Troop Comander A Sqn.
2LT Zoe Williamson, of 51 AD
Troop, 5 Mov Coy, experienced the
exercise for the first time.
“Exercise Black Wing Trident
was my first air drop exercise and
it did not disappoint. Six boats
were rigged and prepped in two
days. A highlight was getting on
the RHIBs which took us close NOMINATIONS OPEN For more information
or to download your
to the drop zone. Watching the
C-130 move into the drop zone 11 JULY application, please
meant the anxious wait to see
if the parachutes would deploy AND CLOSE visit the NZSOF
was almost over. Our team’s
hard work was rewarded as all 12 SEPTEMBER Intranet site:
six boats dropped successfully.
The hospitality we received while
working up in Papakura was
excellent, an experience I will never http://org/nzsof/LP/Recruiting.aspx
forget,” she says.
08 ARMYPEOPLE SHOOT, MOVE, MEDICATE
ARMYPEOPLE 09
By Lucy Handford Alpha Company conducted Around 40 personnel headed to Lieutenant Jordan Corke, 2IC of
Photos: Corporal Chad Sharman Exercise Alpha Kōura in the the Tekapo Military Training Area Alpha Company admits this training
Tekapo Military Training Area in for the five-day exercise, with the wasn’t all singing and dancing,
The modus operandi for soldiers March. Major Josh Sullivan, Officer
Commanding Alpha Company
Company harbouring out in the
field to maximise their time in the
rather it was about getting back
to the “bread and butter” of the
in Alpha Company, 2nd/1st said the purpose of Alpha Kōura
was to provide a snapshot of the
training area. Combined with theory,
soldiers were required to excel in
job after multiple rotations on
Op Protect.
Battalion, Royal New Zealand basic level of competency of Alpha engaging at distance, understand “Our job is to live in the field and
Company participants. the environmental conditions close with the enemy. Exercise
Infantry Regiment, is based on “The exercise focused on which could affect their firing, as Alpha Kōura focused on building
four principles: shoot, move, soldiers’ effectiveness in key
individual competencies along the
well as display their ability to work
effectively in a team.
those skills back up and getting that
practice in to ensure our infantry
communicate and medicate. training themes of shoot, move
and medicate. It also provided a
Private April Ma’a, an Infantry
soldier in 2 Platoon – 2 Section, was
personnel know the capability of
their weapon systems inside out,”
Exercise Alpha Kōura, the first start state for understanding the
subsequent planning of Alpha
one of the participants on Exercise
Alpha Kōura. She said the shooting
he said.
“Move, shoot, medicate
exercise of the year for the Company’s regeneration post Op
Protect. Concurrently it aided in
was the most enjoyable aspect,
but the training also highlighted the
and communicate are simple
competencies. Mastering these
company, focused on three of assessing the level of instruction importance of teamwork. ensure our infantry teams are
provided by commanders at the “I enjoyed using the Glock, using proficient. But location also plays
those principles: shoot, move lead teams and lead leaders level,” the MARS-L at close range was a key role. When you train in
he said. cool, and in general just shooting at unfamiliar environments, soldiers
and medicate. Designed to maintain infantry skill long range. I haven’t used weapons gain a much better understanding
levels in live-field firing, the shoot to that extent since I joined in 2020 of how different environments place
element of the exercise required so it was great to get out there,” different pressures. That prepares
soldiers to engage targets both she said. soldiers for what they may face in a
far-off and close up, utilising a “This exercise also brought out real-life scenario,” he added.
number of weapon systems such the importance of teamwork. Take Alpha Company now seeks to
as the MARS-L rifle, the Glock G17, night navigation for example, you enhance these skill-sets and build
M203 grenade launcher and the need to use your team. If you don’t towards a top soldier competition
Mag58 general purpose machine it’s not going work. I learnt to lean as a look ahead to the start of the
gun. Working in sections of up to on my team and know that they are regeneration cycle.
10, the focus was on basic infantry there for you,” she added.
core skills including static shooting Corporal Nathan Kawana is a
and marksmanship. Other activities supply technician, working in Alpha
including pack marches, night-firing, Company Headquarters. While his
navigation stands and escape and role was largely to provide support
invasion activities were also added to those on exercise, a highlight for
to the mix to induce stress and test him was the ability to participate in
the soldiers both physically and live-shooting.
mentally. “During the exercise, we were
In contrast, the move and using the MAG 58 and doing a lot
medicate aspects of the exercise of drills with two personnel on the
tested the soldiers on their ability gun. We worked on calling out the
to conduct tactical combat range and communicating between
casualties’ care by both day and the gun groups. It was great to have
night. Members of Alpha Company that amount of time on the various
were exposed to additional medical weapon systems,” he said.
training in between live-firing serials
and then tested when they least
expected it at the completion of a
night navigation circuit.
10 ARMYPEOPLE Colonel Ben Bagley (left) takes over from Colonel Stef Michie. CHANGE OF COMMAND AT 1(NZ) BRIGADE The command of 1 (NZ) Brigade changed recently under the watch of their families, officers and soldiers. Colonel Ben Bagley has taken over from Colonel Stef Michie. COL Michie said being part of 1 Brigade during such a demanding and important period was an enormous privilege. “It was an absolute career highlight. It’s been incredibly tough not just for Brigade personnel but also for their families; I was constantly inspired by their personal qualities and their commitment.”
ARMYPEOPLE 11
NATO award for
new commander
Tying up all the loose ends of
New Zealand’s Afghanistan
commitment as Covid-19 raged in the
country was just one of the challenges
Colonel Ben Bagley faced on his most
recent deployment.
His demonstration of exemplary He engaged with every branch of
leadership and devotion to duty the Afghanistan National Defence
during the deployment has and Security Forces, and lead a
COL Bagley, his wife Belinda and daughter Ella are challenged. earned him a prestigious NATO disparate group of stakeholders
Meritorious Service Medal which to develop solutions that enabled
was presented to him by Defence airfields to continue to function
Minister Peeni Henare recently. once handed over by the mission.
COL Bagley deployed to COL Bagley’s citation said
Afghanistan in mid-2020. His his efforts resulted in the
task was to close down the continuation of airfield security
Op Rua II training mission in the and services, which preserved
midst of the close down and capability. “Through his
withdrawal of forces for NATO’s distinguished work ethic COL
Operation Resolute Support. By Bagley has influenced, reassured
then New Zealand had reduced and assisted members from
its presence in Afghanistan to all services of the Afghanistan
only six personnel, relying heavily National Defence and Security
on the support provided by the Forces,” it said.
Australian Defence Force. The spread of Covid-19
Deployed as New Zealand’s throughout Kabul meant all
Senior National Officer and welfare facilities such as base
Director of Future Operations, gymnasiums and support facilities
he was given the task to officially could not be used. “For PT it
hand back Kandahar Air Base was just a matter of putting on
to the Afghanistan authorities thermals and dusting the snow
not long after arriving in theatre. off the equipment that had
“We couldn’t meet Afghan officials been moved outside to avoid
in person, so the whole job was the further spread of the virus.”
Ella Bagley and the Chief of Army, Major General completed by VTC,” he said. The Kiwi team based in Kabul
John Boswell adjust the ceremonial korowai. As the Kandahar handover did really well to overcome all
was being organised, concurrent of these seemingly insignificant
planning for the handover of air challenges to ensure they
bases at Herat, Mazar-i-Sharif maintained their cohesiveness
and Bagram was also added to and morale, he said.
the task. As the mission drew Base dining facilities were also
down his duties also included closed although takeaway food
reducing the troop force flow into was available. When the chefs
theatre to prepare for withdrawal, succumbed to Covid-19, ration
whilst maintaining the viability and packs were issued.
security of key bases. COL Bagley said he felt
As Director of Future humbled to receive the award and
Operations he led the Resolute was proud of the work he and
Support Force Management his team achieved in what was a
Board and streamlined a complex challenging and fluid environment.
process which enabled multi-
nation capability to be maintained.
His job involved keeping airfield
operations going at a vital air
node which enabled civil and
military flights to continue to
support the Afghanistan National
Defence and Security Forces in
Kandahar Province and southern
Afghanistan.
Linton-based soldiers on parade.
COL Bagley salutes members of the brigade.12 ARMYMISSION
FORTY YEARS OF
PEACE KEEPING IN
MIDDLE-EASTERN
HOT SPOT
April 25 marked the 40th anniversary of the
establishment of the Multinational Force and
Observers peace treaty in Sinai, Egypt. A New Zealand
team has been part of the treaty since its inception.
The mission supervises the implementation of the
Egyptian-Israeli Peace Treaty, and its headquarters is
based in Rome.
Participation by New Zealand The contingent is commanded by evaluates training courses based
originally took the form of Rotary a LTCOL who also fills the role of on MFO Standard Operating
Wing Air Support and subsequently the Force Chief Plans Officer. Other Procedures. NZCON personnel
evolved to its present form. In essential Force positions filled by fill the roles of operations
1998, New Zealand increased New Zealand include: instructors, driving Instructors,
its participation to twenty-six • A military police officer who acts the Training Warrant Officer, and
personnel their primary tasks as either an investigator or shift senior instructor FTT. The FTT
being the provision of a Training commander. provides both initial integration In 2016 New Zealand troops based in the
and Advisory Team (NZTAT) and
• A Physical Training Instructor
and continuation training as Sinai Peninsula shifted to a smaller but more secure
a transport section as well as well as validating day-to-day area in the south.
who is responsible for
staff appointments throughout the operations. It is also responsible
maintaining fitness across the
Force. Over the last 40 years the for the highly competitive Annual “Morale within the contingent The shift has turned
Force. He/ she also greatly
roles provided by New Zealand Force Military Skills Competition. is high. Everyone is settled South Camp into “a hive of
assists the Morale and Welfare
have evolved, but have centred • A Driving Section. On average, into their roles and can see construction activity” as the
Office in running sporting and
around drivers, trainers and staff NZCON drivers travel over how their job contributes to MFO builds new facilities
wellbeing events.
officers for the majority of that time. 356,630 kilometers annually. the MFO’s mission,” said Major to accommodate the influx,
Since 1 December 2019, • The Force Passport Clerk who
The Sinai provides a particularly (MAJ) Gabrielle Gofton who was according to MAJ Gofton, who
New Zealand has also provided the facilitates obtaining visas, local
challenging driving environment the MFO’s Engineering Project managed seven construction
MFO with its Force Commander Egyptian ID Cards, and MFO ID
that is unique in the world, so Manager at the time. projects in South Camp and at
(FC), Major General Evan Williams. Cards.
the skills of these professional Between May and July 2016, the MFO Airport Terminal.
MAGJEN Williams is the third • Three members of the Force drivers are tested daily. The a number of the troops from Situated on a bluff overlooking
New Zealander to have filled the Engineering Office: a Major knowledge and high standards the nations that make up the the Red Sea, South Camp
Force Commander role, the others who acts as a Project Manager, they display in the operation of MFO’s Force moved from North compensates in views what
being Major General Donald McIver a Warrant Officer (WO2) who heavy lift vehicles and coaches Camp to the South Camp near it lacks in size. There is also
(from March 1989 to March 1991) assists with the supervision are shared with other drivers Sharm el Sheikh on the southern a range of facilities available
and Major General Warren Whiting of remote sites, and a Project within the Force Transport tip of the peninsula due to the including a gym, library and
(from March 2010 to March 2014). Electrician. section via an effective driver- deteriorating security situation in a café with a pool table and
Thirteen nations contribute troops • The Force Training Team (FTT) training programme. the Northern Sinai. shuffleboard.
to the MFO. which establishes, conducts, and
The Sinai Peninsula is home to
numerous Bedouin tribes, who
originated from people who
migrated to the Arabian Peninsula
around 500 years ago. In the
Sinai there are estimated to be
600,000 Bedouins representing
at least sixty percent of the
overall Sinai populace. Bedouin
loyalty at all levels, is predicated
on security. It is first to the
clan (khamsa), second to the
tribal confederation (gabila),
and then to the nation with
which they identify. Access
to profit, physical security,
and tribal honor are the main
drivers of tribal factions when in
negotiations. As construction of
a large cement wall IVO Rafah
by EAF continues and further
development of Central Sinai
requires labour and stores, it is
likely that Bedouin tribal elders
will seek to form factions and
unions to gain government
construction contracts, implicitly
aligning certain tribes with
government forces.
New Zealand troops in Sinai over the years.ARMYPEOPLE 13
2/1 RNZIR STEPS
UP TO SUPPORT
VETERANS
By Lucy Handford As well as assisting the residents “It has been marvellous to have these soldiers are the inheritors
to pack up at Rannerdale Village the help from the soldiers. Us old of the work that we did back then,”
Soldiers from 2nd/1st Battalion Royal in Upper Riccarton over three people can’t do this on our own, he said.
days, 38 soldiers transported their so we are very grateful to them Captain Mel De Lange,
New Zealand Infantry Regiment and belongings using the Army Band for their support. It reminds me of Quartermaster for 2/1 RNZIR, said
medics from Southern Health Service truck, and helped the veterans
to unpack and settle into their
something I was once told, which
I have always remembered. If you
the unit has a history of supporting
the veterans at Rannerdale Village.
Support recently stepped up to help new home. can help somebody as you pass “When the request for support
32 Rannerdale Village veterans move Commanding Officer of
2/1 RNZIR, Lieutenant Colonel
along then your living has not been
in vain,” he said.
came through, the units agreed to
help immediately. These veterans
to their new accommodation, Aldwins Cory Neale said “Lending a hand Another resident 2nd/1st have carved a pathway for all
on a small task like this allows supported was Army veteran, current serving soldiers, they
House, a specialist rest home and 2/1 to remain meaningfully engaged Geoff Pere, 82, who served as a deserve all the support that we can
hospital care facility in Linwood. with the community and especially
with our veterans. We know the
lead scout in an infantry section
in Malaya.
give them. Moving at any time in
our lives is a stressful task so to be
military connection is as important “It’s fantastic that these soldiers able to reassure them and make the
for ex-service personnel as it is have come along to help. I’ve process of settling into their new
to current members of the NZDF. had a good chat with some of accommodation a little easier was
After all, it is their legacy that we them. I was asking them about the very least that we could do,”
work hard to build upon every the insignia on their new uniforms she said.
single day.” and they explained that they were
One of the veterans supported by from 2nd/1st. I was in the same
the Army was Gordon Gerken, 96, a unit and was part of the group
WWII RNZAF veteran who served in that established Depot Company
the Pacific. back in the 1950s. In many ways
Soldiers help pack up veterans' rooms.14 ARMYPEOPLE LOOKING BACK About 4000 New Zealand servicemen served in Malaya/Malaysia between 1948 and 1966. The Malayan Emergency was a 12-year-long conflict in the Malayan peninsula which arose from an attempt by the Malayan Communist Party to overthrow the British colonial administration of Malaya. Fifteen New Zealand servicemen lost their lives in Malaya between 1948 and 1960, three as a result of enemy action. The New Zealand roll of honour records the deaths of 20 New Zealanders on operational service in the combined Malayan and Malaysian (Borneo) campaigns between 1948 and 1966.
ARMYPEOPLE 15
Building Financial Resilience
By Mark Williamson, Most of us are proud. We may • A range of webinars and to head off a future crisis, then
NZDF Benefits Manager respond to money problems in podcasts produced for us by please have a look at the resources
different ways. Frequently, problems the Retirement Commission and available. We are all different and
At some time during our lives most of are not discussed with others; they Milestone Direct Ltd, NZDF’s have different requirements. What
may not even be discussed with preferred financial advice service; works well for one household may
us experience financial hardship, some our partners. Human nature being • Access to free budgeting not work for another. Look at the
of it severe. Money problems may be what it is, there is a temptation
for us to ignore the problems until
services across camps and menu of resources available and
select those best suited to your
bases and HQNZDF. “Money
temporary, and disappear over time, they become overwhelming. Best Talks” provides nationwide circumstances.
often after successful interventions like to avoid that. A cross section of
financial practitioners will advise
services including their financial Deployed personnel or
those posted overseas are not
mentor service which is aimed
introducing a household budget. For that the best way to address at helping households build disadvantaged. Most of the
money problems is to admit there resources listed are able to
others, the problems may be ongoing. is a problem, seek help and advice
their financial management and
budgeting skills. Some of the be accessed via the internet,
Over years the problems may eat away from experts and put in place long
term strategies for dealing with the
camps and bases also have local technology permitting. Partners
and other family members in NZ are
providers they prefer to use;
at us and significantly impact on our problems.
• The discounted financial advice
also able to access.
health, our families, and on our work This includes being proactive,
in other words acting in advance
and planning service provided to
To find out more, google the
Force Financial Hub, or contact the
performance. of a crisis, rather than reactive,
us by Milestone Direct Ltd;
NZDF Benefits Team on benefits@
responding to a problem only once • Adhoc presentations, including nzdf.mil.nz, or Milestone Direct Ltd
it has become a crisis. “Finding Financial Freedom”; and on 0508 645 378.
Defence households are like a • Externally, there are sites like
cross section of NZ society; some the SORTED sites and those
of our families will be finding it provided by your bank which
hard at the moment. Reflecting also provide powerful, easy to
this, there are a range of resources use tools to help with money
available to help households build management and budgeting.
financial resilience. There are some powerful tools
Resources include: there to assist. Reflecting the value
• The Force Financial Hub and of these resources, the EXCO
Force4Families sites which (NZDF leadership team) recently
provide access to a range of approved additional funding to
services, benefits and tools. increase the financial capability
This includes a financial guide programmes run annually in camps
for households facing financial and bases. As Covid ebbs we hope
pressures; to be able to resume classroom
• The NZDF financial capability training by the end of April.
programme; partnered with There is also funding to provide
the Retirement Commission financial plans for vulnerable
delivers a range of programmes households each year. A financial
for Defence households. plan is a critical document for most
Popular programmes include of us and involves the household
the Women’s Programme which working with a financial planner in
looks at money management working out their financial situation
from a female perspective, and and then in developing short and
the NZDF Investor Education long term goals, and strategies for
Programme, which outlines achieving those goals. Goals may
the advantages of investing range from preparing a household
over saving and explores budget, to paying off debt, to saving
different types of investments. for a first home deposit, or to
There is also the “Get Started” preparing for retirement.
programme which is a great If you are experiencing financial
way of learning about money hardship, or want to apply sound
management and budgeting; money management practices
CAREER MANAGEMENT CORNER
Further information on the
DACM Staff changes Career Boards application process can be found
on the Army Career Management
Due to short notice postings/OP DACM facilitated the Formation Intranet Site under Career Key Dates For more
deployments the following staff Promotion Advisory Boards (FPAB) Progression. information:
for qualifying officers and soldiers 4–5 May 22
changes have occurred at DACM:
over the period 28 Mar–6 Apr. Army Career Management
• LTCOL Rob Loftus is now the Career Management Board
The purpose of the FPABs is to Kippenberger (CMB)
Intranet Site:
RF Military Secretary, replacing allow Formation Commanders http://orgs/sites/armint/I-0001/
LTCOL Terry McDonald who to represent their qualifying
Scholarship Scheme 11 May 22 Contact us at:
has joined the NZDF team, on individuals for assessment of Applications for study via the Warrant Officer Employment DACMRegistry@nzdf.mil.nz
promotion to COL, contributing promotion suitability, development Kippenberger Scholarship Scheme
needs and extension suitability. Board (WOEB)
to the next Defence Assessment are due in to DACM 16 May 22.
Those represented at the Further information on the
• LTCOL Darren Young is now the 16 May 22
FPABs are: application process can be found
TF Military Secretary, replacing • Soldiers – SSGTs and WOs up to Kippenberger Scholarship
on the Army Career Management
LTCOL Ollie Te Ua Tier 3 WO1. (Semester 2) applications due
Intranet Site under Education and
• WO1 Ed Dore-Wright has • Officers – CAPTs with 3 years Training. at DACM
assumed the role of Soldier seniority and above, up to and
19 May 22
Career Manager Infantry, including MAJs.
replacing WO1 Dave Thomas CFR and OSB applications
who is deploying to OP FARAD to be submitted to DACM
as the RSM Officer Selection and on AFNZ413D via Chain of
Command
• WO2 Glenn Savage has moved Commissioning From
from the position of ResF the Ranks Boards
Workforce Advisor to the role of
Operations Warrant Officer in the AFNZ413D applications for
attendance on OSB 01/22 and the
DACM Ops Cell
CFRB over the period 10–14 July
are due in to DACM 19 May 22.16 ARMYEXERCISE
EXERCISE
VENOM 1
Soldiers from Victor Company
honed their close country skills in
the Whirinaki Conservation Park
near Minginui, and Paradise Valley
on a recent exercise
The focus of the exercise was to Part one was the build-up phase,
close individual and section level which had soldiers assaulting in
skill gaps in the close country. It pairs and teams. Part two, was the
saw a crawl, walk, run approach as culminating point for the exercise
V Coy sought to pivot away from which had sections conducting
the urban focus of the previous assaults in a close country
two years. environment.
Due to the effects of Covid-19, Part one was a round robin
V Coy deployed with reduced of three stands. The first stand
numbers which fluctuated between covered pairs and teams moving
four and five sections over the through a jungle lane IVO Zone 1.
course of the exercise. This was to build soldiers’
It began with three days of key confidence assaulting with
individual skills training, including live rounds in a close country
gun team drills and standard environment.
operating procedures (SOP), lead The second stand involved
scout drills, reaction to contact, soldiers operating the M203 with
movement in the close country and chalk rounds IVO Zone 1. This also
navigation. allowed soldiers to develop other
The next two days were spent skills like JD’s, fire control, and build
on section SOP development. their confidence when firing onto
This allowed the sections to shake distant targets.
out and rehearse quick attacks, The third stand was conducted
ambushes and observation posts. at the SART range. This provided
The blank firing phase of the a great opportunity to develop
exercise finished off with a tactical hand to hand fighting skills, and
phase that saw the sections long distant shooting utilizing LSW,
conducting tasks with the addition DMW and MARS-L. The SART
of an enemy party and having the range provided scope to work on
opportunity to utilize the skills they fire control orders and still build
had rehearsed in the earlier phases. on each soldier’s confidence when
The steep terrain and thick operating these weapon systems.
secondary bush of the park The second and final part of
presented challenges, however the exercise saw V Coy move
the training value for those who to Paradise Valley from Zone 1.
attended was good. WMTA wasted no time in providing
a decent amount of rain to begin
part two of the live field firing. The
Live field firing section assaults were conducted
in two days with minimal issues
The end of blank field firing phase but still room for improvement.
saw V Coy move to Waiouru The section ambush was the final
to begin prep for the live field activity which saw the end of
firing phase. This phase was a Ex Venom 1 and as a bonus NO
confirmatory of what was covered BLINDS!
in Whirinaki Forest broken down
into two parts.ARMYTRAINING 17
Reserve
Force
Training
By Sergeant Caroline Williams
Arriving at The Army Depot (TAD),
Waiouru Military Camp (WMC), can be a
little daunting as a recruit, particularly
with Covid-19 thrown into the mix.
It would take more than that to On completion of MOD 2, recruits
deter the 107 eager Reserve Force engage in Corps training, including,
(ResF) recruits arriving to begin six infantry, medical, or combat
weeks of training. engineer training.
Reserve Force recruit training The first Reserve Infantry
consists of two modules. Module Corps training of the year was
one (MOD 1), normally run from run by 2/4 RNZIR in WMC in
a Reserve Force unit prior to January. MAJ Andrew True,
commencing initial training, gives Officer Commanding KRITHIA
the recruit an insight into the Army Company (for RTF 166), TAD,
battle rhythm and is also where said the feedback was positive
they learn the basic structure regarding the standard of recruit
of the NZ Army, rank structure, training, and Corps trainees had
and parade skills. This gives the been motivated and enthusiastic.
recruit a unique opportunity to MAJ True re-iterated WO2 McGee’s
stay in a military environment, build sentiments that MOD2, although
friendships with fellow recruits, and challenging, was a pleasure because
confirm if the Reserve Force is what the recruits were keen to learn.
they envisaged. “Training is about a positive
Module two (MOD 2) is the main approach. We want people joining
part of a recruit’s initial training and the Army to have an enjoyable
is based at TAD for the duration. experience, and of course, there
This is the foundation course where will be times of difficulty. However,
soldiers are taught basic soldiering arriving with the right mindset and
skills including drill, leadership, receiving positive reinforcement
learning management systems throughout training, builds
(LMS), first aid, weapons training, confidence, helping recruits make
navigation, radio communication, the right choices for the future”,
and fieldcraft. The training said MAJ True.
culminates in a five-day field
ResF soldiers and officers are
exercise in the Waiouru training
volunteers who are paid for the
area where a large part of the
hours they work, usually spending
course is put into action. Training is
twenty plus days annually, training
blended, face-to-face learning and
with their respective ResF unit.
student online learning.
They have the opportunity to deploy
“The course was short and
and engage in short term regular
sharp with every soldier keen
force engagements, such as the
to experience life as a soldier,”
NZDF support to the operation of
said WO2 Rob McGee, Company
Managed Isolation Facilities.
Sergeant Major, KRITHIA Company
(for RTF 166).
With Covid-19 in the community,
TAD had to adapt to the constantly
changing Covid environment.
Recruits from areas under
lockdown Level 3 were based at
Helwan Camp for the first two
weeks of training to ensure they
were Covid free, said WO2 McGee.
Regular Force instructors were also
required to step in for training due
to limited Reserve Force instructors
available as a result of the outbreak.You can also read
