The Gary Thomas Memorial Trophy for Communications and Information System Exercises (CISEX) was first awarded in 2007. After another successful year Air CIS Ohakea retained this trophy, which was awarded by Land Component Commander, Brigadier Gawn at Trentham on the 11 March.
L-R: Brigadier Dave Gawn, Mrs Glennis Thomas, FLTLT Trish O'Neil , LAC Glen Toohey and Mr Peter Nally. (OH-08-0147-02-tn).
The trophy is named after Gary Thomas, an ex-RNZAF Telecommunications Operator, who whilst in service identified the need for the three Services to practise their communications skills in the various modes of operation used by the NZDF. This programme was later expanded to include the Australian Defence Force (ADF).
Today the aim of the CISEX programme is to “practise the planning, establishment and operation of Communications and Information Systems (CIS) and Electronic Warfare (EW) required for C2 of joint and combined operations. CISEX provide commanders with a means to exercise CIS operation at all levels in order to confirm and refine CIS and EW procedures, identify capability shortfalls, confirm/maintain CIS and EW interoperability and capabilities in a Joint and Combined environment; and to provide structured continuation training for CIS and EW staff.”
Each participating unit conducts an average of three serials a month and involve two or more ADF or NZDF units. The Gary Thomas Memorial Trophy is awarded to the NZDF unit that obtains the highest percentage of success in CISEX serials.
The success of a CISEX is reliant on good NCO management, CIS knowledge, skills and teamwork. Many things can cause a CISEX to fail, so the whole unit must work together to succeed – from the CCM providing the required Crypto, NCOs ensuring accurate reports are sent within required timeframes, to the operators conducting the exercise. It is through commitment to the CISEX programme that Air CIS Ohakea has been awarded the CISEX Trophy for two years running. Congratulations to the Air CIS Ohakea team.