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Messages pour in for Willie
People from all over the world are sending messages to Victoria Cross recipient, CPL Willie Apiata.
Soon after the announcement on July 2, New Zealand Army opened an internet message board to which people can send their thoughts.
The words speak for themselves. Here is a selection of some received so far: Full names withheld to protect privacy.
Rudi, Auckland writes:
“I have had the thought of joining the NZ Army in the back of my head for a while now, but it never really became more than that, until I read in the newspaper of Corporal Willie Apiata. You have inspired me to get off my backside, and join up. I am going to be applying right now. Congratulations on the medal, and a well deserved one at that. The world needs more men like you.”
Simon, Te Aroha writes:
“Thank you for showing the world how a true New Zealander acts in the face of the enemy, thank you for doing your job and defending our country’s interests. You really are an inspiration, I'm joining the Army at the end of 2008 and only hope I can be as professional as you all obviously are.”
An Opononi resident writes:
“Tena Koe Willie congratulations on your outstanding achievement. I know all the whanau in Waitangi will be pleased for you. You look like a very friendly person and you will be an excellent role model not only for Maori kids but all races. … I know that the army isn't everyone’s cup of tea but I know it would make a difference to some of our youth today. My daughter is a sergeant in the army in Waiouru and it has certainly made a difference to her life. Keep up the good mahi for every bad story about Maori there are always some positive ones that need to be celebrated also. Good luck, God bless.”
A new TF soldier from Lower Hutt writes:
“I saw the doco for 1 NZSAS and was blown away by the fitness and determination of the candidates. When that much time is spent with guys that are there to be the very best, I can see how valuable the friendships are, and how you could not have chosen a different path. Although I don’t know where my time in this man’s Army will take me, I will no doubt find inspiration from your example, which will tell me “suck it up and get on with it!”
Frank, Paris FRANCE writes:
“Congratulations, even in France there are people who know what you have done and are very proud of you. … This unit (1NZSAS Group) is one of the best Special Forces units in the world.”
Joe, Paraparaumu writes:
“Well done.”
Eddie, New Plymouth writes:
“Dear Sir, Congratulations on the VC. Hope your whanau and your fellow SAS soldiers are as proud of you as me and the rest of the country are KIA KAHA.”
Andy, Sydney AUSTRALIA writes:
“Nice work mate.”
Ted, Manurewa AUCKLAND writes:
“Your humility and humbleness as a professional soldier demonstrates the comradeship for your mates and serves as a role model for all, and a super bonus for your ethnicity. Exactly what our rangatahi need.”
Rudnei, BRAZIL writes:
“Congratulations on the award of the VC! ‘Without friends no one would choose to live, though he had all other goods. – Aristotle’.”
Peter, UNITED KINGDOM writes:
“To Corporal Apiata, As a Brit, I would like to offer my heart felt congratulations for receiving this award. Your fellow countrymen are undoubtedly proud of you. I would also like to express my thanks to the many New Zealanders past and present who have fought along side us Brits in our times of need…You are not forgotten and unselfish actions are very much appreciated.”
This page was last reviewed on 22 May 2008 and is current.
