Presents off to military abroad
It is beginning to look a lot like Christmas as the elves at the Royal New Zealand Returned and Services Association dispatch parcels across the globe, destined for Defence Force staff overseas at Christmas time.
Personnel can expect some festive cheer from home, thanks to 250 RSA Forces Gift Parcels which have been packed and are on their way to deployments including South Korea, South Sudan, Egypt, the Middle East and Antarctica.
Minister for Veterans Meka Whaitiri and the Vice Chief of Defence Force Air Vice-Marshal Tony Davies helped to pack the Christmas parcels alongside the RSA’s office staff and volunteers from the New Zealand Defence Force.
Boxes were filled with treats and Kiwi classics donated by Pams, and a few extra goodies purchased by the RSA.
Each box also contained a poppy and a card handmade by the students of Mt Cook and Silverstream Primary Schools, thanking those deployed for their important contribution overseas.
Vice Chief of Defence Force, Air Vice-Marshal Tony Davies, who helped pack the boxes, said there’s nothing like receiving a message or gift from New Zealand when you are a long way from home.
‘‘The RSA do a great job of organising this special activity each year and we are grateful for their support of our people who are away from their loved ones at Christmas.’’
National president BJ Clark said the RSA is proud to continue to support troops around the world.
‘‘A little bit of support goes a long way when you’re away from home – and after 106 years of service the RSA remains committed to supporting our Armed Forces personnel, not just at Christmas time, but whenever they might need assistance throughout their life.’’