Gunner William Johnson receives his commendation from the Commander, Brigadier Mark Holmes, (WN09-0025-03tn)
5 January 2009
Gunner William David Johnson of the NZ Army was recently awarded a commendation for outstanding achievement by Brigadier Mark Holmes, Commander of the International Stabilisation Force (ISF), Timor Leste.
Gunner Johnson was awarded the commendation for his handling of two serious traffic incidents which occurred in Dili in December 2008.
The award ceremony took place at the New Zealand barracks located in Dili in front of his fellow Kiwis.
The commendation praised Gunner Johnson’s behaviour while dealing with the two road accidents, one of which resulted in a fatality, as exemplifying that which is so important for maintaining and enhancing the good reputation of the ISF in Timor Leste. His performance on his first operational tour of duty is especially remarkable given his junior rank and short length of service.
After the parade was called to attention and Gunner Johnson’s name read, the 21 year old from Linton marched forward to accept the commendation. Following a brief personal exchange with the Commander, the parade honoured him with a traditional congratulatory Haka. Breaking rank with potent stares and deep rhythmic chant the Kiwis beat their chests, knelt, and punched down with pride. For all present, it was a stirring tribute.
Gunner Johnson was clearly moved by the ceremony, and humble in his appreciation of the award.
“If it wasn’t for all the training provided, I couldn’t have acted the way I did,” he said. “I was careful to pay attention in training and observe how my seniors reacted to certain situations. Like anything that you train hard for, it becomes instinctive.”
Assisting in the commendation ceremony was the Commanding Officer of New Zealand forces in Timor Leste, Wing Commander Rory Paddock.
“The New Zealand Company in Timor Leste has adopted the catch-cry ‘kicking goals’, a phrase coined by the ISF Commander,” said Wing Commander Paddock. “I’m proud to say in this case, Gunner Johnson has kicked a remarkable goal.”
Brigadier Holmes doesn’t present such commendations lightly, and in doing so reminded all those present of the significance and example set by Gunner Johnson.
“As a representative of the New Zealand Defence Force, he’s demonstrated that they have got the right people and the right training,” Brigadier Holmes said. “It’s one more example of how capable the New Zealand Army is and the skilled and talented personnel they have on this operation.”
Ends