LT CDR Ingram (left) handing over the mine counter measures symbol
of command to WO Harper. Chief of Navy RA Jack Steer observes
measures to learn from. They have also conducted real world
operations in PNG mapping explosive remnants of war.
During Lieutenant Commander Ingram's command the Navy
have conducted 15 Multi-Agency Operations either searching for
debris or containers as in the case of the Rena response or bodies
in support of the New Zealand police. Whilst a sombre task, this is
one that is deeply rewarding for the team and offers real tangible
returns to the New Zealand community as the return of loved ones
that would otherwise have remained lost to the depths, and is a
huge part of bringing closure to the grieving process for families
ashore. "You need only look at the effects of finding Private Ross
(one of our own at Waiouru) had in healing the grief within the
NZDF whanau to see the value," Ingram said. It is in small ways
such as these, and there have been many, including the recent loss
of a light aircraft with two on board off Kawhia, that the New
Zealand public gets a huge payback from the NZDF capability.
Ingram went on to say, "for the team under WO Harper's
command the future is bright. In February next year you will
once again be the centre of attention as you host the WPNS
MCMEX. A multitude of nations, over 300 divers and six AUV
teams and ships will descend upon the Devonport Naval Base
for what will be a fantastic exercise where you can once again
demonstrate your world class attributes." This one initiative
alone is undoubtedly world class, with Canada and the United
States looking to take up our Navy's MCM training syllabus for
their own training.
"I have long believed that ratings peak at CPO. Only those
who consistently perform at a superior level above their peers are
promoted to Warrant Officer as they move beyond the mantle of
Senior Rate into one of wider 'Naval Leadership.' In my opinion
Warrant Officer Harper has stepped out and consistently performed
at a higher level again making him truly a strong leader and
superior Warrant Officer thus deserving of the recognition this
forthcoming command will give him. I am immensely proud and
grateful to Chief of Navy for recognising the skills and attributes
within Warrant Officer Harper and awarding him Command of
MCMT," said Lieutenant Commander Ingram.
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May/June 2013 Professional Skipper 63
