F/S Andrew Forster
Flight Sergeant Andrew Bruce Forster, a highly experienced Royal New Zealand Air Force veteran with 27 years of service, died tragically in the line of duty on Thursday 19 November 2009.
F/S Forster was an Armament Specialist who had previously worked on Skyhawks and Hercules aircraft, weapons systems and small arms. He was passionate about the Armament trade and had gained new heights as an Armament Technician by recently re-qualifying as an Improvised Explosives Device Disposal Operator.
It was as a member of the NZDF tri-service Explosive Ordnance Disposal Squadron, that F/S Forster came to be at the Waiouru Training Camp. During the routine marking of the location of an unexploded artillery shell—so that it could be disposed of later—an unexpected explosion occurred, causing instant and fatal injuries to F/S Forster.
Chief of Air Force, Air Vice-Marshal Graham Lintott, who was deeply moved by the news said, “This is an incredibly sad time for the Air Force and for the whole New Zealand Defence Force.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of F/S Forster. We have lost a very well liked and respected Flight Sergeant, and as a New Zealand Defence Force family we all share the grief.
“This has come as a tremendous shock to all of our people.
“Our focus now turns to Flight Sergeant Forster’s family, his Squadron colleagues, and many friends throughout the NZDF and elsewhere. Our people will continue to support the family in any way we can.”
F/S Forster will be greatly missed by both the RNZAF and the New Zealand Defence Force. He is survived by his wife and three children.