Media Advisory

11 July 2008

New Kiwi Contingent For The Solomon Islands

A vet, a postie and a DOC Ranger are three of the 44 mainly Territorial Force (TF) personnel heading to the Solomon Islands on Monday for a four month tour of duty.

The contingent, drawn substantially from the 5th Wellington West Coast Taranaki and 7th Wellington Hawke's Bay Battalions, will be the seventh rotation to support the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI).

Operations such as RAMSI offer TF members the opportunity to take on the challenges that you would experience full-time in the Army and the civilian skills members bring are often invaluable when working with the local population.

Led by Major Bede Fahey who is normally employed by the NZ Police, the Kiwis will carry out patrols, liaise with locals, provide assistance to police and help with external security at Rove Prison.

The contingent will be farewelled by Chief of Army, Major General Lou Gardiner, and media are invited to attend.

When: 6.00am, Monday 14 July 2008

Where: Air Movements Terminal, Ohakea Air Force Base

What: Departure of 44 personnel for a four month tour of duty in the Solomon Islands.

ENDS

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