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Willie: “Thanks for the support”
Kia Ora,
At 0900 on Sunday 01 July my CO handed me three letters to read. The first was from the Governor General, the second from the Prime Minister and the third was from the Minister of Defence. These letters informed me that I had been awarded the Victoria Cross for New Zealand (V.C.). My boss also advised me that three other members of the 1st New Zealand Special Air Service Group were to receive awards - specifically two to receive the New Zealand Gallantry Decoration (NZGD) and one to receive the New Zealand Gallantry Medal (NZGM). I would like congratulate those other members of my Unit for their awards.
I had no idea this great honour was to be bestowed on me and to be quite honest, life has been pretty hectic since that morning. I feel very proud and privileged to have received this award although I must admit to be looking forward to getting back into my normal work routine. I would also like to get around further down the track to personally thank those who have supported me.
Until then, I would just like say thank you to all those friends, colleagues and members of the wider NZDF that have shown me support over the last few weeks in the form of emails, letters and other messages.
I have had really positive support from my Unit, the wider Army, NZDF and my family. Thanks in particular to the Defence Public Relations Unit for their guidance in dealing with the media – something I am still getting to grips with. Right now I am looking forward to some time off with my family and a bit of hunting.
Whakatangata Kia Kaha.
Cpl Bill (Willie) Apiata, V.C.
This page was last reviewed on 27 July 2007 and is current.
