NZSAS to get VC

[kiwifighter300]

New Zealand SAS soldier to get VC for actions in Afghanistan. I cant post urls yet, however it is on stuff.co.nz website. Also the NZDF website has the citation

 

[dave_kiwi]

For more info:

NZ Herlad article

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/1/story.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10449084

Interesting, VC and a Unit Presdential Citation for the SAS as a whole -- what were they getting into ...

 

[Todjaeger]

For more info:

NZ Herlad article

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/1/story.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10449084

Interesting, VC and a Unit Presdential Citation for the SAS as a whole -- what were they getting into ...

For the SAS Corporal I have to say "Well done" at the same time, I too wonder what they've been getting up to. I'm surprised though that the NZ Herald included a picture of the SAS trooper. I was under the impression that normally photographs of SAS personnel weren't allowed. And again, well done for the NZ SAS.

-Cheers

 

[Tasman]

For the SAS Corporal I have to say "Well done" at the same time, I too wonder what they've been getting up to. I'm surprised though that the NZ Herald included a picture of the SAS trooper. I was under the impression that normally photographs of SAS personnel weren't allowed. And again, well done for the NZ SAS.

-Cheers

It has certainly been the Australian SAS practice not to name or show photos of the faces of SAS personnel, even when they are decorated. I notice that the wounded SAS soldier was referred to simply as "D".

Anyway, it was a job well done by the corporal concerned.

Cheers

 

[dave_kiwi]

Thinking about this - my guess would be that he is no longer a serving memeber of the SAS.

if I understand correctly -- "normal troopers" do a 5 year tour - they then return back to their "originating" units -- in this case I would assume - RNZIR

 

[riksavage]

Once you pass selection, complete training and then get posted to a Sqn, I seriously doubt you will be sent back after 5 years unless RTU'd. Too much time and effort is spent bringing your up to speed (Dems, MOE, Halo etc.), transferring back to a regular infantry unit will erode your skills.

I understand it costs UK1 million to train a SAS Trooper, why invest the time and money and then rotate the individual out!

Troop Commanders will rotate out to complete staff courses etc then (if considered good enough) return as a Sqn Commander.

 

[kiwifighter300]

Thinking about this - my guess would be that he is no longer a serving memeber of the SAS.

if I understand correctly -- "normal troopers" do a 5 year tour - they then return back to their "originating" units -- in this case I would assume - RNZIR

He is still serving in the SAS (radio new zealand website). This will restrict the type of deployments he can go on.

 

[riksavage]

The UK head of the armed forces wrote a personal letter, as follows:

In a letter to Cpl Apiata Gen Dannatt wrote:

"Dear Corporal Apiata, Please accept my warm congratulations on your award of the Victoria Cross. There can be no more selfless act for a soldier than putting the life of your wounded comrade before that of your own. The fact that this act was performed under intense fire makes it even more impressive an achievement. Although you have a reputation for modesty, I am delighted you have been given the highest recognition for your bravery.

"You are one of an elite band of only thirteen living recipients and you have the added distinction of being the first New Zealand Victoria Cross holder since the Second World War. Of course there are pressures that come with being the holder of such a coveted award but I am sure that these are nothing compared to that which you have experienced in your career and particularly, on operations.

"Once again, I would like to pass on the huge admiration that the British Army has for your achievement and I very much hope that we might see you over here one day, perhaps at an event organised by the Victoria Cross and George Cross Association.With very many congratulations."

 

[RubiconNZ]

I did wonder why the presentation wasn't more public at least the Governor General if not the Prime Minister, as for sure it is big deal to award the VC.

 

[kiwifighter300]

If I remember correctly, the official presentation is next month. I think he has only got the ribbon at the moment.

 

[RubiconNZ]

Ah I see, Excellent!
Cheers

 

[kiwifighter300]

He received the medal today from the Governor General. The Prime Minister was in attendance.

 

[mattyem]

a reluctant hero

Just watched to tvnz doco on willies actions before, apon and after him recieving the vc, he appears to be such a humble man and a true blue kiwi!
I have so much respect for this man and the actions he undertook in such overwheelming odds!!