1 June 2007
A South Auckland airman was named as a recipient of the Distinguished Service Decoration yesterday for a lifetime of service with the Royal New Zealand Air Force.
During his career Squadron Leader Jim Rankin has had full responsibility for flying instruction standards throughout the New Zealand Defence Force as Commanding Officer of the Pilot Training Squadron and the Central Flying School.
The decoration acknowledges his “instrumental role in developing and managing the standards and organisation to support RNZAF display flying activities, including leading the Red Checkers Formation Aerobatic Team”.
“His expertise is also widely acknowledged in the civil flying community where he is closely involved with the professional development of civilian pilots and instructors through a variety of training and development work sponsored by the New Zealand Civil Aviation Authority.”
Squadron Leader Rank said the award for totally unexpected.
“My daughter got the mail and said, ‘Here’s one for you dad, from Government House’. It’s surprising to be recognised like this when I work with such a lot of talented people in an area I’ve always enjoyed.”
The decoration will be officially presented by the Governor General at a ceremony later this year.
Background
DSD - The Distinguished Service Decoration (DSD) recognises distinguished military service by regular, territorial and reserve members of the New Zealand Defence Force, including command and leadership and service in an operational environment, or in support of operations.