Post by Dave Homewood on Nov 17, 2024 20:47:02 GMT 12
The Press, 14 October 1963
LONELY BATTALION
(New Zealand Press Association)
PALMERSTON NORTH, October 13. Some 2000 troops are taking part in exercise Reflex Two, but to make the operation more realistic, simulated troops, equipment and aircraft are supplementing each force.
A press party touring the area on Saturday took the wrong turning and arrived at a junction of several roughly graded tracks. A soldier guarding this junction was asked what he was doing. The reply was: “I am a battalion guarding these crossroads."
Some time later the Governor-General (Sir Bernard Fergusson) noticed a group of soldiers sitting on the ground and taking no interest in the battle raging nearby. He asked the men what they were doing and learned that they were simulated dead. “And when did you die?” he asked one man. “Just a few minutes ago, sir." replied the soldier “Congratulations.” said Sir Bernard Fergusson.
LONELY BATTALION
(New Zealand Press Association)
PALMERSTON NORTH, October 13. Some 2000 troops are taking part in exercise Reflex Two, but to make the operation more realistic, simulated troops, equipment and aircraft are supplementing each force.
A press party touring the area on Saturday took the wrong turning and arrived at a junction of several roughly graded tracks. A soldier guarding this junction was asked what he was doing. The reply was: “I am a battalion guarding these crossroads."
Some time later the Governor-General (Sir Bernard Fergusson) noticed a group of soldiers sitting on the ground and taking no interest in the battle raging nearby. He asked the men what they were doing and learned that they were simulated dead. “And when did you die?” he asked one man. “Just a few minutes ago, sir." replied the soldier “Congratulations.” said Sir Bernard Fergusson.
