Defence Force Reservist Of The Year Competition

Part-time soldiers, sailors and airmen will compete against each other this weekend in a series of military skills challenges for the title of New Zealand Defence Force Reservist of the Year.

The competition which pits representatives of the 12 major Army, Navy (and for the first time in 2011), Air Force Reserve units, from North Cape to Bluff, against each other in a test of military skills will be held at the Royal New Zealand Police College, Porirua and HMNZS Olphert, Buckle Street, Wellington City on Saturday.

The contestants will be assessed in their performance of a series of military tasks such as weapons handling, first aid and physical fitness. A public speaking competition and formal dinner will be held on Saturday evening at Defence House where the winner will be announced.

Director General of Reserve Forces, Brigadier Sean Trengrove says Reservists are part time members of the military who, in addition to their full time jobs serve in the Army, Navy and Air Force in their own time.

"The role of the Reserve Forces is to provide supplementary manpower to the NZDF as and when required for specific tasks. Many reservists take leave from their regular employment to serve on operations in the Solomon Islands, Timor Leste and Afghanistan.

"Reservists have also played a significant role in assisting with the Defence Force's response to the Christchurch earthquake, providing personnel to assist with clean up and security tasks," said Brigadier Trengrove.

WHAT: NZDF Reservist of the Year competition - 12 young New Zealanders who are part-time soldiers, sailors and airmen competing in a series of military challenges.

WHEN: Saturday, 9 July, starting at 0730am.

WHERE: Royal NZ Police College, Papakowhai Road, Porirua and HMNZS Olphert, corner of Taranaki and Buckle Sts, Wellington.

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