VANZ News Issue 4
A Message from Chief of Defence Force
This will be my last column in VANZ News as Chief of Defence Force. Since Veteran’s Affairs New Zealand became an operational unit of the New Zealand Defence Force on 1 July 2008, VANZ has been working hard, providing veterans with better access to services and helping them obtain the support they are entitled to. To make this happen I have met regularly with the VANZ General Manager, Rick Ottaway. I also regularly met with the President of the RNZRSA, and I take this opportunity to welcome the new President of the RSA, LT GEN (rtd) Don McIver, as well as thanking AVM (rtd) Robin Klitscher for all his hard work. Their insights helped inform the discussions I had with the Minister of Veterans’ Affairs, Hon Judith Collins.
When I penned a column for the first edition of this newsletter I mentioned that along with improving communication with the veterans’ community, there were a couple of other veterans’ issues I hoped would be progressed. First was confirmation of a New Zealand Defence Force Medal. I am happy to report that the Government has announced a call for applications for this medal will be made early in 2011. Second, was the review of the War Pensions Act 1954. The Law Commission has produced its final report which is now being considered by Government.
The Christmas period, as well as an opportunity to spend time with family and friends, is also a time for reflection and remembering. As well as reflecting on the contributions of veterans this Christmas, I will also be thinking of the many Defence Force families who, because their loved ones are serving on operations overseas, will not be together. Their commitment and sacrifice is something I am sure most veterans can relate to.
I wish veterans and their families a very happy and safe Christmas.