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19 September 2006
The New Zealand Contingent of the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO) in Egypt held a Medals Parade recently, for the departure of the rotation 01/06, who served with the MFO from February to August 2006. The parade was reviewed by the Force Commander, Major General Roberto Martinelli, and was attended by many friends and colleagues from the various contingents of the MFO. The Fijian Battalion Band and the Australian contingent also provided valuable support.
Maj Gen Martinelli awarded the MFO Medal to all members of the outgoing rotation. Many of them were also presented with certificates of appreciation by the Force Commander and the Chief of Staff for outstanding service and safe driving whilst deployed with the MFO.
The highlight of the parade, for many of the guests, was the rousing haka, where members of the outgoing and current rotations challenged the new contingent members to carry on the revered reputation of the New Zealand contingent The MFO haka “Ehipa” was written specifically for this mission and is used for all powhiri and during medal parades.
New Zealand currently has 26 personnel from all three services serving with the MFO. In February this year this commitment was extended for a further two years, until 1 April 2008.
This page was last reviewed on 05 October 2006 and is current.
