New Zealand Defence Force The Guild of Air Pilots and Air Navigators
Te Ope Kaatua O Aotearoa

Media Release
1 December 2009

Prestigious Award For Air Force Recipient

Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) Squadron Leader Jim Rankin has been presented with the prestigious Jean Batten Memorial Award by the New Zealand region of the Guild of Air Pilots and Air Navigators (GAPAN).

The award, presented by Master of the Guild, Rear Admiral Colin Cooke-Priest CB FRAeS RN (Rtd)during the Guild’s annual dinner, recognises an outstanding individual contribution to New Zealand aviation.

The citation for SQNLDR Rankin, who joined the RNZAF 1978, said for the past 30 years he has made an outstanding personal contribution to New Zealand aviation in the disciplines of pilot training, airmanship and the safe conduct of general aviation activities.

“He is an experienced instructor across many disciplines and has committed his career time, willingly and cheerfully, to educate other aviators in both the military and the civil environment.”

SQNLDR Rankin said he was “gobsmacked” when he heard he was to be presented the award.

“It was totally unexpected and quite humbling,” said the pilot who has flown a number of fixed and rotary wing aircraft; and at various times has coordinated military and civil air displays at events such as Warbirds Over Wanaka.

ENDS