Iran for Waiouru man

Waimarino Bulletin, Issue 5, 19 August 1988, Page 15

Iran for Waiouru man

Ten New Zealand Army officers including Waiouru's Major Bruce Young, have been selected to join the 350 strong United Nations contingent to monitor the Iran Iraq cease fire. They leave New Zealand for Teheran on Sunday, August 14. The group has had about five days to prepare for departure (and make arrangements for family welfare etc) and three of those days have been at Pap akura Camp, receiving in-

depth briefings on the war, local history and culture and observers duties. Each man is self sufficient and carries New Zealand Army uniforms and protective clothing to cover conditions ranging from snow and freezing weather in the mountains, to hot dry conditions in the desert. they are also carrying water bottles, emergency rations, sleeping bags, one man tents, personal requirements and gas masks. All have been told to

expect to be away for up to a year, though it is anticipated that, if the United Nations mandate extends beyond the initial six months, then the officers will have leave and a chance to meet their families in Europe. The Contingent Commander, Lieutenant Colonel John Fisher (Dunedin) was asked at a press conference if they were all volunteers, and he answered: "Yes, all New Zealand soldiers are volunteers".