INSIDE OPERATION PROTECT
“For the NZDF, at any one time, we have over 1,300 people working in managed isolation, which has enabled over 160,000 people to enter our country over the past 16 months. This is a long deployment, but our people are dedicated professionals, committed to making a difference, and I would just like to say, thanks.” Commodore Mat Williams Maritime Component Commander
OPERATION PROTECT DURING DELTA
WHAT DOES THE OP PROTECT PATCH MEAN? Patches are an important part of military culture and when Operation Protect was stood up, it was only proper a badge be created. Badges identify a trade, task, or rank relating to that person. Those in our Defence Force who are tasked to Managed Isolation and Quarantine (MIQ) facilities, and are helping to protect Aotearoa against COVID-19, will wear the Operation Protect patch.
The Op Protect patch has two key symbols: The Manuka flower has long been valued by Māori for its healing benefits. This medicinal legacy of the flower is why we chose it to represent our role in protecting the health of Kiwis. The honeycomb is created by many bees working together toward a common goal. It symbolises our belief that by working together we can overcome the epidemic.
Navy Today #259 | 11
