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Post by pjw4118 on Dec 15, 2012 13:42:13 GMT 12
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Post by ngatimozart on Dec 20, 2012 20:36:40 GMT 12
I see that the British PM has announced that British RAF WWII Bomber Command veterans will be awarded a Bomber Command Clasp. About time as it's very long overdue. My question is will the NZ Government follow suit for our veterans who served in Bomber Command during WWII? |
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Post by suthg on Dec 21, 2012 8:09:12 GMT 12
Thanks for the image links - the stories of the Bomber Command Tribute journey by those lucky NZRAF vets had a few tears rolling for me! My uncle Fl Lt Ian Sutherland DFC had been over to Europe previously representing NZRAF for some other WW2 commemoration with my Aunty Hilda - who was a WAAF in the same effort and had drawn a ballot too, - he had flown 37 sorties in a Lanc for 44 Squadron (Rhodesia) as he had a mid upper gunner from Rhodesia! He has a little story here... www.airforce.mil.nz/downloads/html/afn/afn137.html He is still enjoying good health although slow on his feet now. My Dad was about to embark on a journey with the RNZN but the end was declared before they left. He was younger by a bit. |
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Post by pjw4118 on Dec 22, 2012 8:29:17 GMT 12
Thanks for the comments, sorry about the pink tone , scanner problems rather than digit ones.I spent a morning with Ian last month before the Armistice Day show and found his recall and stories wonderful. Funnily enough Richard Carstens arrived at the same time to film and interview Hilda.
The announcement about the BC clasp is welcomed by the boys ,,,but oh so late.
As a UK medal issued by the Crown we assume all ex RNZAF BC aircrew will be eligilbe . Discussion amongst the veterans guess it will be worn on the Aircrew Europe Star ribbon . Currently the France and Germany clasp ( only awarded to those flying on active service before DDay) is worn on this medal,..
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Post by pjw4118 on Mar 1, 2013 11:07:32 GMT 12
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Post by pjw4118 on Mar 1, 2013 11:08:10 GMT 12
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Post by ngatimozart on Mar 3, 2013 13:20:34 GMT 12
Cool thanks. I'll be able to apply on behalf of my deceased uncle when I get his records from NZDF Archives.
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Post by pjw4118 on Apr 8, 2013 8:59:34 GMT 12
With the 70th anniversary of the Dams Raid coming up next month , I see the aviation press is already on the case.
What would be the interest if the NZBCA arranged a special showing of the movie at MOTAT where we could put on a light and sound show as well. Perhaps meet the vets night.??
Any thoughts ?
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Post by Dave Homewood on Apr 8, 2013 9:03:24 GMT 12
That sounds like a great plan there Peter, especially if perhaps Les Munro could say a few words. This idea may warrant its own thread so more people see it too.
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Post by fwx on Apr 8, 2013 11:35:18 GMT 12
Wonderful idea Peter! I would be keen.
Cheers,
Chris
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Post by skyhawkdon on Apr 8, 2013 12:10:25 GMT 12
The Air Force Museum is currently building a new exhibit on the Dams raids. I think it will open in May.
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Post by pjw4118 on Apr 19, 2013 11:58:43 GMT 12
Dam Busters Movie With the upcoming 70th Anniversary of this famous raid, MOTAT will be showing the 1955 movie The Dambusters  We expect veterans will attend the afternoon show and MOTAT volunteers the later one. Friends, family and supporters are welcome. Expect a small charge to attend. It should be a special day. RSVP Henry Swan 09 817 4839 or email:theswans@xtra.co.nz The latest NZBCA News has been released. Here is the first page. It will be posted on the NZBCA site next week. Go to www.nzbombercommand.co.nz |
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Post by pjw4118 on Apr 19, 2013 12:58:28 GMT 12
Forum members are welcome to attend the June 2 parade and service.
Just let Phil know.
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Post by pjw4118 on May 27, 2013 8:23:29 GMT 12
The June 2 memorial Service will have a special addition, the presentation of the first Bomber Command clasps to twelve veterans representing the remaining 180. The senior officer representing the RNZAF at the servoice will make the presentations.
The balance of the clasps will be mailed out to those who have already applied.. Families of deceased RAF BC aircrew are asked to apply to the NZDF Wellington giving service number and operational details and preferably a copy page from his log book.
Sundays service is open to all.
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Post by Dave Homewood on May 27, 2013 11:50:33 GMT 12
It's a pity this is the same day as the airshow at Ardmore.
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Post by pjw4118 on May 27, 2013 17:01:28 GMT 12
Its the day chosen for Commonwealth wide services Dave .
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Post by Dave Homewood on May 27, 2013 18:44:54 GMT 12
OK, I didn't know that. But it's still a pity. I am sure it's all too late now but it would have been nice if the two events were combined at Ardmore and the veterans got to see an airshow and have their medals pinned on in front of a large crowd who might have learned something about their sacrifice. As there will be a lot of warbird activity on the day will you get a flypast I wonder?
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Post by Dave Homewood on Aug 2, 2013 15:01:52 GMT 12
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Post by flyjoe180 on Aug 3, 2013 11:25:31 GMT 12
Saw that Dave and joined accordingly.
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Post by pjw4118 on Aug 4, 2013 10:47:14 GMT 12
Thanks Dave for setting this up , I think we can get good coverage ,posting recent visits to vets , special stories and "new " pictures
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