Reaching Out

The following is a personal experience written by Gregg Nathan. 

Name: Gregg Nathan 
Service: New Zealand Army — Infantry and Engineers (20+ years) 

One year ago, I was in so much pain that I could barely function.

My left hip was severely damaged after years of forced marching, debus drills, and demanding deployments during my service in both the Infantry and Engineer Corps. Even sleeping was painful.

Gregg Nathan (left), 1988 Malaysia Singapore

Like many soldiers, asking for help was difficult. The "harden up" mentality runs deep, and stories I had heard about Veterans' Affairs — paper wars, unsuccessful claims, and confusion around what qualifies as active service put me off for a long time.

Eventually, I reached out on the ONWARD BAR platform, and the response genuinely blew me away. There was an overwhelming amount of advice, support, and shared experience. It became clear that many of us simply don't know what support is available. A special thank you to Maria, Tania, and Godzy for their guidance and encouragement.

I then committed to the process. The paperwork was daunting — forms, doctors' reports, service records — it felt overwhelming at times. With the support and guidance of Maria, Tania, and Godzy, I worked through it all. I often found myself wondering why veterans have to go through such an intense process just to receive help, but I stayed the course.

I'd also like to thank my case manager, Linton, whose support was outstanding throughout the process. In my opinion, he is the best case manager out there (slightly biased). Linton asked if I would be willing to share my experience, as it may resonate with and encourage other veterans to register, ask questions, and submit claims. I agreed.

My claim was successful, and I underwent a left hip replacement. The operation and recovery were a complete success. Veterans' Affairs provided financial and practical support, rehabilitation programmes, and assistance with my return to full-time work.

I'm now fully fit, working in security at Te Arai Links Golf Course, as well as in landscaping and mowing. I'm back playing golf. My golf isn't great, so advice is always welcome, but physically, I'm in a far better place than I was a year ago.

Gregg Nathan, 2025 at work, fully recovered

I have nothing but praise for Veterans' Affairs. I understand that some veterans have had less positive experiences, and I'm genuinely sorry for that. However, my experience was overwhelmingly positive.

My advice to all former service personnel is this: find out what support is available. Ask questions. Talk to others. Register with Veterans' Affairs and submit a claim if you need help, whether financial or practical. You don't know what's available unless you ask.

My name is Gregg Nathan. I served in the New Zealand Army for over 20 years with the Infantry and Engineers, with the privilege of serving in Singapore, Bosnia, East Timor, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Years of carrying heavy packs, running hard, and jumping off trucks have taken their toll on my joints, but it was an honour to serve.

ONWARD. UBIQUE. As you were.