New medals for service in Iraq and Solomon Islands
Minister of Defence Mark Burton today announced a new medal to recognise the service of New Zealand personnel who have
served in Iraq since May 2003.
“This new medal will recognise the exceptional service and achievements of these personnel in a challenging environment.
More than 120 New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) personnel who have served in Iraq will be eligible to accept and wear the
medal.
“Two New Zealand personnel were initially deployed to Basrah, to work with the United Nations Mine Action Service’s Mine
Action Coordination Team. Since then, the NZDF has contributed military engineers and support personnel to Iraq under
United Nations Resolution 1483, to work on humanitarian, rehabilitation and reconstruction projects. Currently, 61 New
Zealand personnel are serving in Basrah.”
Mark Burton also announced that New Zealand personnel who have served with the Regional Assistance Mission in the
Solomon Islands (RAMSI) since 24 July 2003 will soon receive the New Zealand General Service Medal (Solomon Islands) in
recognition of their service.
“RAMSI is an Australian-led intervention force, providing assistance in the restoration of law and order to the Solomon
Islands. At the peak of New Zealand’s contribution, over 220 NZDF personnel and 35 New Zealand police officers were
serving in the Solomon Islands. In all, over 500 NZDF personnel have served as part of this mission, as have 110 New
Zealand police officers.”
“New Zealand police personnel who have provided support and assistance for 30 days or longer to the Solomon Islands
Government in re-establishing order between 6 October 2002 and 23 July 2003 will also be eligible for this award.”
“New Zealand military personnel will continue to serve in the Solomon Islands until 31 July 2006. In addition, 35 New
Zealand police officers will continue to work long-term to help rebuild the Royal Solomon Islands Police.”