Media Advisory
7 June 2007
On 9 June 45 New Zealand Defence Force personnel who have served in the Solomon Islands will be presented with the New Zealand General Service Medal (Solomon Islands) by the Minister of Defence Phil Goff.
This tri-Service deployment was significant in that it was lead and manned by Territorial Force (TF) soldiers, supplemented with Regular Force Navy, Army and Air Force. This was the first such deployment of a TF contingent since WWI.
Where: HMNZS Pegasus, 419 Montreal Street, Christchurch
When: 12.45pm, Saturday 9 June
ENDS
Media wishing to attend this event should register with Captain Rob Wilson phone 027 676 5910 before 3pm Friday 9 June.
Background: The Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands
RAMSI is a partnership between the government of the Solomon Islands and contributing Pacific nations, including New Zealand and Australia. It aims to ensure security and assists the Solomon Island’s people and government to develop the skills and institutions for successful self governance.
New Zealand has supported the RAMSI mission since July 2003 at the request of the Solomon Island’s government. The NZDF will maintain a continued presence in the Solomon Islands until a yet to be determined date
The mission in the Solomon Islands requires strong infantry skills and an ability to get on well with the local people. The New Zealand Troops regularly liaise with locals, conduct patrols, provide assistance to police and help with external security at Rove Prison.