VICTOR FOUR COMPANY

Croc, Goldy, Jim, Dicko, Bob and assistance from Quin and Zac were the committee to host the 2007 V4 Reunion.

Anna Goldring provided the IT support.

It was with great sadness that our committee chairman, Croc, passed away a few weeks prior to the event.

The committee had decided to hold it over Easter weekend to allow travel and to do a few things unique to previous
EVSA and V4 Reunions.

There would be two plaque unveilings of two Vietnam Veterans from two different companys and a lunchtime formal
meal while everyone was in their ‘formal dress’ wearing their medals.

The usual mix and mingle occurred on the Saturday where upon registration, everyone was issued with a
V4 photographic journal.

Zak did a mihi followed with a waiata and then a rousing haka was performed by his sons, Victor and Rahiri.

Jim Stokes took over proceedings next day at the Papakura cemetery and cenotaph. David Keay would speak
on Stan Kidd and Phil McGuire (W2) would speak on Ray Hawthorne.

The families of both Vietnam Veterans were present and would physically do the unveiling of each grave plaque
under the spiritual guidance of Tom Tuhiwai.

A quote of $200 was given for a band on the day for the march from the cemetery to the cenotaph. Instead,
we used a ghetto blaster, complete with original NZ Army Band music, compliments of a former band member,
Ian Levien who also arranged our bugler. Thanks Ian.

Yep, the ‘kiwi number 8 wire’ approach again.

The committee had approached the Government, the Papakura Council and other various agencies to get
recognition of Stan and Ray onto the Papakura Cenotaph. This was achieved and both plaques were
unveiled by the whanau of both men.

At the RSA afterwards, a Ngati Tumataeunga Tie was presented to; Lita Hall (Brian Hall’s widow), their son
Daniel and Tom Tuhiwai. Bill Doherty’s was sent one by post to Rarotonga.

Brian was awarded the Military Cross, Tom, the Distinguished Conduct Medal and Bill was Mentioned in Despatches.

Droop, Pete Ramsay and Zak would also receive one for their contribution to, and loyal support of V4.

A fantastic sit down meal, accompanied by crayfish, paua and kina that had been sent by Droop from Kaikoura,
washed down with copious quantities of wine made for a great day and an enjoyable afternoon and evening.

(CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE)

Papakura 2007