UNARMED COMBAT.

Official Newsletter of the 6th Battalion (Hauraki) Regimental Association Incorporated Compiled by T.J.Archer Edited by Mrs.Lynn Archer

Secretary: Mrs M Kareko, 91 Windsor Road, Tauranga

Upcoming Events

February 2004

27 t h Friday Night Garrison Club, from 1600 hours. Finger food.

5 t h

9th

12 th

19 th

26 t h

Friday night Tuesday Night Friday Night Friday Night Friday night

March 2004 Garrison Club, from 1600 hours. Nibbles Committee Meeting 1900 hours. Garrison Club from 1600 hours. Nibbles Garrison Club from 1600 hours. Nibbles Garrison Club from 1600 hours Finger Food

2 n d Friday Night 8 t h Thursday Night

13 th Tuesday Night 16 th Friday Night 23 r d Friday Night 30 t h Friday Night

April 2004 Garrison Club from 1600 hours Nibbles Garrison Club Sing along, from1600 hours

Supper provided Committee Meeting 1900 hours Garrison Club from 1600 hours Nibbles Garrison Club from 1600 hours Nibbles Garrison Club from 1600 hours Finger Food

7 t h Friday Night 11 t h Tuesday Night 14 t h Friday Night 21 s t Friday Night 28 t h Friday Night

May 2004 Garrison Club from Committee Meeting Garrison Club from Garrison Club from Garrison Club from

1600 hours 1900 hours 1600 hours 1600 hours 1600 hours

Nibbles

Nibbles Nibbles Finger Food

Remember these Dates July 2nd through to July 4 t h

Your Committee is planning a weekend event in Tauranga..

COMMITTEE 2003 / 04 Patron: Col (rtd.) A.P. Coster ED

President:

Des Anderson, tel: 07:5711951 h

Vice President Ted Dean tel 07-5444536 fax 07-5444737

Secretary Treasurer Marion Kareko tel: 07:5760277h

07 5788139w Welfare Officer Penny Burgess, tel/fax 07-5776480

Committee: Bob Mankelow Shirley Keno Richard Burgess Tony Fraser Penny Burgess Paddy McFarland Erik Kristensen Bruce Beckett

A R E A REPS; Auckland: Bob Mack Thames:

ph 09-4453242

nil Tauranga: See Committee

Matamata

DougMcGlashen ph 07- 8886314

Whakatane Jim McGinty

Hamilton: Stu Foster

Te Aroha:

ph: 07-8436121

Gordon Eagleson ph 07-8846675

Te Awamutu: Peter Croucher 07-8714360

Presidents Report

This newsletter brings the end to another era in the Hauraki Assn with the "retiring" of Trevor Archer as editor of the "Hauraki News". Trevor has brought his own unique style to the newsletter, and will finish in May.

Another era is also corning to an end. Those who served in the theatre where some of our battle honors were earned. That is why your committee has taken the opportunity to feature these few remaining Haurakis at our Annual Dinner this year, on the 4 t h July 2004.

Now that the Army has returned from Timor, (making the requirement for back up personnel from the TF not so critical); it maybe time to consolidate. With the current Government's desire to eliminate the teeth from the military, they must not be given the opportunity to decimate the TF Infantry Battalions, in particular the Haurakis. Now is the time for all past Haurakis to unite and put political pressure onto MPs to ensure the Haurakis remain & be given the resources to blossom.

As an association I believe it is our duty to stand up for our past comrades who built our fine Regiment and ensure it continues into the future. I believe the best way to achieve this objective is through the Association. It saddens me when I hear of ex Hauraki who do not wish to continue with their membership, as there is, "nothing in it for me". Now, more then ever we need your support. Give a little of yourself back to the Regiment that gave so much to you.

Kia Kaha

Des Anderson President

Penny's Corner

Last Post

On 11 Feb 2004 S/Sgt Geo Maniapoto sadly passed away. His Tangi which started at 1100, was held Saturday 14 Feb 04 at Rotoiti.

With sadness we report the sudden death of Peter Kahu, a Warrant Officer of long standing in the Regiment. He was our Taupo Rep and attended many Association functions. Peter will be remembered for his jovial spirit and good nature.

Sickness None advised

$ $ $ $ $ $

New Recruit Early Days Part 3

So training proceeded and one of the things, which were put into place, was Anti Aircraft Posts, at intervals around the perimeter o f the camp area. They were to protect the camp. Instructions were, i f any aircraft flies within a quarter mile of the camp, you will fire a warning burst and, i f it persists, you will open fire on it.

Now that was all right and proper. However, the CO. of the hospital had some lovely red crosses painted on the roof and, as he had a mate, who was stationed at Whenuapai and flew Hudson's, he asked i f he was out that way some time would he fly low over the Hospital. "Right" said the Air Force, "as good as done." So as was fitting in the services, the Army was not told. The Guard was duly changed, the Orders were duly read, and everybody settled down in the usual

3

daze...so, then fete took a hand in the proceedings.

The Hudson duly appeared on the horizon, the guard watched lazily, and the Hudson Bomber flew closer. The guard stirred himself and placed the ammunition pan on the Lewis gun and watched. The pilot flew in a wide circle to observe the Red crosses. He then proceeded to tighten his turn, by now the Guard was wide-awake and cocked the gun. The Guard Sergeant knowing who was on duty, and fearing the worst, started to run down towards the gun sun furiously waving his arm shouting "Don't fire, it's one of ours!!"

The Pilot by this time had his aircraft on a straight run to go right over the Hospital. The gunner, hearing all the shouting and realizing that he was going to miss out on a bit of exciting practice, (and notoriety,} swung the gun into line, and let the aircraft close a bit further, and at that stage a deaf man could have heard the frantic shouts of the Sergeant, opened fire. Oh dear!!! The aircraft was not hit (by design} but when they examined the ammunition pan from the gun later on, they discovered that twenty rounds had been fired. Explanation "The gun jammed, it wouldn't stop firing!" That did happen at times.

So that was the most exciting Sunday in camp for months. The gunner was a hero with his mates but the Hospital CO. was livid!

Sent in by Charlie Murdoch. Thanks

******

From The Archives 1976

The time has come to evaluate and have a close look at our platoon, as from Annual Camp (AC) 1976 to the proposed AC 1977.

For me as PI Comd, AC 76 was the start to a new phase of military service - from tanks to anti tank. This meant learning a completely new role and doing so quickly as possible.

It was in fact achieved with the generous help of W O l l N . Webb, Sgt. T.Archer, and the three Corporals L. Harman, (now Sgt) L.McKinnon, and J.Dick. In a short time then I became reasonably conversant with the anti tank roles and weaponry.

Annual Camp 1976 From my point of view AC 76 was very successful. We had our problems sure, but they were to be expected. Platoon morale was high and training, despite the weather, went very well. There is nothing worse than a new Commander having problems of various types with his troops. It was therefore gratifying to find that such problems did not exist for me, and for that I have the platoon to thank. This was particularly so seeing as I was learning myself and had other things to worry about. And that was AC 76 Lt Ray Goldring

******

Cadet Forces Junior Outdoor Leaders Course

12th January to 23 r d January 2004

Nelson Lakes, RNZAF Dip Flat Training Camp. Recently I had the pleasure of attending this years Cadet Forces training and assessment at dip Flat. The Cadet Forces have by linking through the Mountain Safety Council

the advantage of obtaining recognised qualifications (NZQA credits) for Cadets Junior Outdoor leader and for Cadet Officers Outdoor leader and bushcraft One.

The Commandant in arranging this link with MSG required all Cadet Officers to have a qualification, either Outdoor Leader or Bush One before they are permitted to take Cadets on outdoor camps/trips.

Some Officers have embraced the opportunities provided, others have procrastinated. Now that the Cadet Forces have people qualified to assess the competency or otherwise of their fellow officers, I believe it will get harder to qualify. [I did it, I'm competent, and you have to show me that you are very good before I tick the box]

My observations of skills and competency of the cadets show that they outstrip their Officers. Should Officers be a level above their subordinates? It is certainly easier to instruct subjects if you are up to date and proficient in that subject.

Example of this is the use of the Silva compass, which is a multi tool, both a protractor and a compass in one and by using this tool you can take grid bearings from the ground. Bearing conversions no longer needed. Of the 63 Cadets attending the course at Dip Flat, was a Sergeant from the Taupo Cadet Unit who demonstrated great skills in map, compass and instruction. Hauraki Experience and training weekends with the Hauraki CM A unit has been justified and rubbed off on Matt. He set a very good example to others on the course.

All Cadets were deemed competent at Junior Outdoor leader level, but the same couldn't be said for the Officers on their course. - A number were deferred at Bush One and a couple NYC at Outdoor leader Level.

S/Sgt. Bob Mankelow

£

Late Subscriptions It is now 6 months since subs came up for renewal and shortly the next Financial Year will be here. To the majority of our paid up members, thank you. BUT!! There are still a few who are very sluggish. I f in doubt, please check with the secretary, Marion, whose contact number is always shown on the Committee page at the start of every publication.

Apparently a true story

Marine Corps General Reinwald was interviewed on the radio the other day, and you have to read his reply to the lady who interviewed him concerning guns and children.

Regardless of how you feel about gun laws, you've got to read this!!! It is a portion of a National Public Radio (NPR) interview between a female broadcaster and US Marine Corps General Reinwald who was about to sponsor a Boy Scout Troop visiting his military installation.

Female Interviewer: So, General, what things are you going to teach these young boys when they visit your base? General Reinwald: We're going to teach them climbing, canoeing, archery and shooting. Female Interviewer: Shooting! That's a bit irresponsible, isn't it? General Reinwald: I don't see why, they'll be properly supervised on the rifle range. Female Interviewer: Don't you admit that this is a terribly dangerous activity to be teaching children? General Reinwald: I don't see how, we will be teaching them proper rifle discipline before they even touch a firearm. Female Interviewer: But you're equipping them to become violent killers. General Reinwald: Well, you're equipped to be a prostitute, but you're not, are you? The radio went silent and the interview ended.

******

Date to Remember... Why? On Thursday evening 8th April 2004, your committee has organized a "sing along". I am sure this will rival the NZ Idol. So bring along your musical instruments and join in for an evening of self-entertainment. The Garrison has a piano and a guitar, if anyone knows how to play them.

****** Hauraki News

Trevor has decided to pull the plug as editor of the Hauraki News. Trevor has done this in the past and I have managed to convince him to continue as "special projects for the President". Trevor has had a long "Tour of Duty" as an executive, with the Association. First as the inaugural Secretary, then as Secretary/Treasurer, as well as editor and publisher of the Hauraki News.

Hauraki News has been the primary contact to members of the association. Trevor & Lynn have devoted many hours in towards publishing the Hauraki News. Trevor has never missed a dead line, even when he has to chase people like me, to receive articles. With Trevor's retirement there is a requirement for another EDITOR. I f you would like to volunteer of the position of Editor or can give some assistance towards the next newsletter, please contact me.

6

Christmas Social.

On Sunday November 30th approximately 40 persons arrived at the Tauranga RSA for to enjoy an excellent Christmas Dinner. As is normal it started off mingling with past and present friends. It was one those days when the PMC, President Des Anderson, found it in his heart to have a PMC shout. This was even better than normal because he left it on for some time. Thank you Des.

Outside the weather was great with a temperature of about 20deg, and inside the friendship was just as warm and friendly.

Bazz Porter gave a wee talk before the end of the meal, and presented Des with a photo taken when he was in charge of Bravo Company, to which Des replied. It was a beauty. The photograph will be on display at the Garrison Club Museum

The only problem of the day was-unfortunately, due to a major mal function, no photos were taken. (The editor forgot to bring his @@#%* camera however having been a Sergeant myself once, I immediately put myself on a charge and hid the remote for 10 minutes while I was at the do.)

A big thanks to the girls and Committee for a very pleasant and well-organised afternoon

Kiwi News 1943 Macarthur sees Jap threat to Australia

General Macarthur's Headquarters announce today from Australia, that constant reinforcements of troops and war materials were being poured into

Jap-held islands north of Australia. 'The Japs now have enough troops and equipment to launch a large-scale offensive anywhere in the Pacific at any time."

Welcome to the R F Staff

On Friday 13 th, the President and Committee welcomed the Adj. Capt. John O'Reilly, RSM. WO 1 Dave Mills and Cadre NCO SSgt Blaize Robinson to the Garrison Club. Over 50 people attended, consisting o f the CO Col. John Dick, Hauraki Battalion Group personnel, Association Members and guests.

Penny, once again rose to the occasion and arranged the fine supper. Thank you Penny, Marion, Bob and all the other helpers who contributed to make the evening a success.

Des

Thought For The Month The amount of sleep required by the average person is about ten minutes more.

Vacancy

At the end of this financial year I shall cease to be editor of the "Hauraki News," which means the Issue for May 2004 will be my last. That of course means there will be a vacancy to fulfil my spot. Any member interested please contact Marion or Des whose phone numbers are at the begirining of the publication. Trev the Editor

*****

?

Concept of the Hauraki Museum

There have been some whispers of dissatisfaction regarding layout and placement of displays and memorabilia in the Museum and Garrison Club. There is a Committee that decides these things, but nothing is set in concrete, and helpful, constructive suggestions are welcome. The concept / plan at present is as follows. The Museum Bottom of stairs and stairs Sporting trophies, photos of teams etc. Foyer WW1 Anzac Roll of Honour Gallipoli Main Room CO's of the Haurakis. Going clockwise- very early days Volunteers- Ohinemuri Rifles-Library Boer War 1940's 1950's United Nations Malaysia Timor 1970's Garrison Club Rhodesian Display - Bar - Cadet Force's trophies - Other trophies. Plaques; clockwise - Senior Service -Marines - Army Corps - The Infantry Units - The group Training Units -Other organizations, Police etc -British Units- Ghurkhas- Fijian Units -Australian Units - These are followed by more recent presentations.

Note an attempt has been made to keep the Museum and Garrison Club as separate entities/display areas. This may not be the final configuration as we have a long way to go regarding the displaying of the Units proud history. Display cabinets (the lack of) are the major impediment to doing justice to the material available for display. A

huge injection of cash would make a large leap forward possible.

Recent developments regarding the availability of Tony Fraser as the Curator of the Museum Tony has recently rejoined the Unit (passed his medical) and intends to spend one weekend a month on the Museum. This will make continued development of displays more noticeable in the foreseeable future.

S/Sgt Bob Mankelow

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The Museum.

Our curator Tony Fraser has moved to New Plymouth for employment. Tony has advised us he will continue as curator, returning to Tauranga one weekend a month. Tony has taken on the position of area representative in Taranaki. Tony is intending to move Hauraki artefacts that are stored around the area and consolidate them in a new location in the Army Hall; the Hauraki Battalion Group has set aside for that purpose. President Des

Garrison Club. Volunteers run the Garrison Cub, but we are becoming thin on the ground. More bar staff are required. I f you can assist please make it known to a committee member. There is only one Garrison Bar left in the Hauraki area we need to ensure this one continues.

Rhodesian Security Forces & Nurses This organization is planning another RV for Labour Weekend 2004

Christmas 2003 !!! These two lovebirds at 87 and 85, anticipated a very quiet, restful, happy Christmas 2003 at our home, the delightful The Avenues; no work, no worries, just peace and contentment. Alan had been feeling poorly with electrodes on his back to stop the screaming pain, a result of a war injury to his back some 60 years ago.

My nephew Richard Keller from Napier arrived unexpectedly and said "Aunty Joan, you and Alan are coming to Napier for Christmas with us." Well, things started to move, "Why not? It will do us good." After rushing frantically around trying to reserve a flight to Napier, we eventually managed to get one and were told it would not be a large plane.

On departure I was horrified, surely this is not it! Two wheelbarrows would have more space. With great difficulty our two suitcases, plus Alan and I and his walker were flung aboard, with another man and the pilot making up the very full load.

The pilot seemed to know what he was doing and managed to keep up in the air and in the right direction. In spite of heavy grey clouds and a few prayers, we were told we would land in Gisborne and change planes. "Good thought Joan, a bigger plane where the seat belts would meet". After disembarking with considerable help at Gisborne, we were told to wait in the waiting room until called for the final flight to Napier. A young energetic man on ground duty flung our luggage into another small plane. Then he hustled Alan and I and another man over the wing, (no steps) onto the plane. I was clutching a suitcase on my lap and my face spoke volumes. The energetic mart climbed into the pilot's seat and with a mighty grin, said "We're off"!

The air was thick with rain and fog and when we dropped a few yards I screamed, grabbed Alan and said my prayers. I also hoped the bottle of 'medicinal' brandy had not leaked over my new clothes. Napier at last, in the rain. Now to get out of this mini-monster. Alan shoved me head first out of the very small window-door onto the wing - it was raining hard and there were still no steps. A familiar voice said "Joan, sit on your back-side and slide down the wing". I did this and both of my legs were grabbed by strange men until I hit the ground with a thud and a very wet tail. The family watched; this cannot be Alan and Joan : a family joke for ever ! We finally settled into the Colonial Lodge Motel, a lovely place owned by a friendly west-coaster and right next door to the RSA for meals and drinkies.

Next day Alan had a fall and hit his back on the steel-edge of the bed. I rushed to help him up and I banged my leg on the steel bed. Blood everywhere and two moaning people. The staff helped us and after the doctor's visit Alan was diagnosed with two cracked ribs and me with a bung leg. Now there'll be no spa pool or swimming.

We thoroughly enjoyed the family in spite of our agony. Oh yes, Alan had his lower teeth removed before Christmas; the $300 teeth did not fit so he could only eat soft food and liquids. We eventually arrived back home in an Air New Zealand plane.

Glad to be back home ? You bet With love Joan Keller Redding. H&T/Citf f&oM ((r\trDtry£ ^ £^DD< <\/G>

6 HAURAKI ASSOCIATION INCORPORATED APPLICATION FORM FOR

NEW MEMBERSHIP ONLY

Regimental No Date of Birth

Full Name

Partners Name (If App)

Full Postal address

Telephone Number(Home) Business

Brief resume of Service with 6 Hauraki (Include dates and appointments)

Highest Rank Held.... Service in other Units

OFFICE USE ONLY Date Joined Receipt no Membership no

This information is collected for the purpose of the 6 Battalion (Hauraki) Regimental Association Inc. and is strictly Confidential. It will not be supplied to any other person or organisation in compliance with the Privacy Act.

Post Subscription of $20.00 to Secretary M. Kareko 91 Windsor Road Tauranga

Mk IV 01/99

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