16 August 2006
Private Meredith Jonathan Simms (18) died yesterday in a Unimog accident at Weld Pass near Blenheim.
Private Simms grew up in the Akatarawa Valley, Upper Hutt and was a former student of St Patricks College in Silverstream. He was a keen hunter and enjoyed clay bird shooting, soccer, badminton, squash, dragon boating and photography.
Private Simms joined the Army in March 2006 as a rifleman. After completing his initial basic training in May he began training as an infantry soldier. In early June Private Simms applied for a corps change to be an army driver and began working with the Burnham based 3rd Logistic Battalion. Private Simms was the passenger in the Unimog.
Private Simms was a well-liked soldier who was extremely polite and courteous. He had established some strong friendships within the army and was an integral and valued member of his section.
ENDS
For further information please contact Major Denise Mackay - Army Public Relations - on (04) 496 0285 or 021 478 574.