New Zealand Defence Force
Te Ope Kaatua O Aotearoa

December 10 2007

Waiouru Army Museum Reopens

The Waiouru Army Museum will reopen tomorrow morning (Tuesday, December 11) after the police finished their scene examinations as part of Operation Valour, the investigation into the theft of gallantry medals.

The museum was handed back this morning in a ceremony that included a brief service conducted by the Waiouru Army Camp padre in the museum’s Valour Alcove, the home of the stolen medals.

Museum director Colonel (retired) Ray Seymour thanked all those who had sent messages of support to the museum over the last eight “difficult days”.

Colonel Seymour said while the stolen medals were the jewel in the crown of the museum’s exhibits, there was still a wealth of New Zealand military history on display at the Army museum.

“The Army museum remains the home of the history of the New Zealand Army. It is rich with links to the sacrifices made by New Zealand servicemen and servicewomen in the conflicts that have shaped our nation.

“This remains a place to come and connect with, and reflect upon our military history,” said Colonel Seymour.

Colonel Seymour said while the police had finished their work in the museum their investigation continued.

“The case is not over yet and I will only rest when these treasures and taonga are back in their rightful place and that the perpetrators of this disgusting crime against our proud nation are brought to justice.”

As part of the investigation the Police have set up a hotline number for anyone to provide information on the burglaries.

The OPERATION VALOUR contact number is 0800 349 0600.

ENDS

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