EXERCISE BAPAUME

Cutting short the 5/7 Battalion, RNZIR live field firing exercise, Exercise Bapaume, proved to be a sage decision with the onset of Cyclone Gabrielle.

With about 50 officers and soldiers attending the exercise, based in the heart of the Waiouru Military Training Area, many were redirected to the cyclone affected areas and utilised as first responders, pulling civilians to safety in the treacherous conditions.

“We decided to send a number of key people home early in anticipation of the response. That way they were on the ground when the cyclone hit, and could assess the situation and liaise with local authorities. It also meant the soldiers were able to continue with their live field firing training until such time as we were required to respond,” said Officer Commanding Wellington Company, MAJ Ian Auld.

The exercise, beginning with the Annual Weapons Qualification, is designed to give soldiers experience with live field firing in a controlled situation. Conducting a night shoot and refamiliarisation with the Night Vision Goggles was also a highlight.

Soldiers received individual tuition during live field firing then built up to working in pairs and fours. Although training was cut short, all soldiers had the opportunity to conduct live field firing.

“Although we were there for a shortened duration we accomplished a lot. Making the decision to send everyone back to Waiouru to prepare for the Civil Defence emergency highlighted our two roles that need to be fulfilled,” said MAJ Auld.

“Being out in the field meant soldiers had no contact with the outside world,” said WO2 Billy Te Hiko, CSM of East Coast Company. “When we went through Pahiatua we started to get a real feel for what was happening. We weren’t expecting to get over the Waipawa Bridge but we managed to push through to Napier. The water was lapping at the top of the Waipawa Bridge, I’d never seen it so high.

“When we got back to Faraday Street (East Coast Coy HQ) we had first responders on the ground so I sent everyone home who could get home, to check in with home