23 August 2006

Navy Mows Go for Cancer Appeal

Royal New Zealand Navy personnel deployed to Afghanistan have shaved off their traditional sea going beards to raise money for the Cancer Society’s annual appeal.

Captain Ross Smith, Lieutenant Tim Gore, Lieutenant Warren Dohnt and Petty Officer John Burridge shaved off their beards earlier this week, raising $US280.

They are based in Bamyan as part of the New Zealand Defence Force Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT).

For Captain Smith, who has worn a beard since 1984, the big shave was for a good cause.

“I was very happy to support the Cancer Appeal by losing the beard and was very impressed by the quick accumulation of funds highlighting the generosity of the contingent,” said Captain Smith, the PRT’s Senior National Officer.

“My only concern was that someone else was doing the shaving!” He said.

The PRT will continue with their fundraising over the weekend, with other members of the Kiwi contingent shaving their heads to help bolster the kitty for the Cancer Society.

ENDS

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