VICTOR FOUR COMPANY

The hosts for this reunion were Andy & Shirley Peters, Beaver Thompson & his wife, Scotty & Margaret Scott,
Bill & Jude McCoid, Jake & Lilley Reihana, Zak & Bonney Harris and Bulldog Te Awa and his wife.

Although they had 2 years notice to prepare for the event, it was less than a year when the idea of the V4 Book
was first mooted. The editorial book committee were under immense pressure to have the book completed
by this reunion where it could be launched and distributed.

On the day of the reunion, books were virtually coming off binding machines, then packed into boxes.
At Auckland, 36 cartons (504 books weighing approximately 1 tonne) were loaded into a large rental van,
such was the volume and weight for the trip north.

The Paihia event began on Friday afternoon with a powhiri at the Te Tii Marae and among the welcoming party
was Dick Dargaville (V3). He explained the history of the marae, the area and the flag that was flying
which was very informative for the large contingent present.

Next morning 250 books were given to the reunion committee for presentation to the V4 guys or their families
who were present. The books were blessed by the Anglican Bishop and Padre Kevin Herewini (4 Troop SAS).
A few words from the book editorial committee, then each member was called forward to receive their book from Quin.

A tribute 08 DVD, V4 monogramed scarf and bag were also handed out.

Sales of additional books were brisk.

The afternoon’s programme was a chartered boat cruise for a few hours that included a visit to the Hole in the Rock.
We were amazed that the large boat actually took us through the hole with rocks virtually inches on either side
of the vessel to the commentary of the crew about the significance of the island.

We also went to Russell for a stopover where some went to the RSA or the historical Duke of Marlborough Hotel.

The evening dinner and dance was exceptional with the band comprising of Bill Kora and his wife
and a few ring-ins from the Coy.

Next morning, the Memorial Service was held in a local church where our 7 Roll of Honour Portraits
were positioned at the front.

The Soldiers from 3 Auck/Nth marched the 7 Roll of Honour Flags inside and the service began with the Bishop,
Kevin and Dave Page sharing duties.

Afterwards we were invited to the Services Club for lunch and then departure.

(CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE)

Paihia 2011