5 Squadron RNZAF Association NOTICEBOARD

Chairman’s Report to 2009 AGM

The Chairman’s Report this year coincides with the October 2009 Newsletter to all members that also contains excellent columns from CO 5 Squadron, Wing Commander Nick Olney, and his new Command Warrant Officer Dave Lark. As these informative contributions include comment on the general activities, resources and aspirations of the squadron I need not repeat those aspects here. Additional copies of the newsletter will be available at the AGM.

Because we have not had a specific project this year does not mean that the Association is any the weaker.5 Squadron knows that our support is always reliably in the background. The “history and memorabilia” rationalisation, for example, remains a very desirable project when the time is right for the unit, and members such as Des Gyde could do a great job there.

The squadron has been tested by major personnel changes and operational pressures over the past yearand is meeting the demands with professionalism and confidence. CO 5 is now keen to promote and grow “the 5 Squadron family” of present and past members and their families.

With support from the 5 Squadron RNZAF Association with its excellent website, members database and dedicated financial reserve the achievement of this commendable vision is already well underpinned.

When our first Patron, Sir Edmund Hillary, died on 11th January 2008 the committee deliberated on possible successors. Following a unanimous resolution at the 2008 AGM an invitation was made to Air Commodore Malcolm Gunton OBE AFC RNZAF (Retd). He accepted the prestigious role with typical humility and graciousness.

This is an excerpt from my invitation to him on your behalf;

“Your eminence and mana in the maritime aviation community and your loyal commitment to the interests of the 5 Squadron Association since its inception mark you as a truly worthy person to figuratively guard the interests of the association. There are indeed few men with attributes of similar quality and we are proud that you are willing to accept our honour.”

The current committee is Spats Nelson, Vern Reynolds, Peter Burch, Peter Culpan, Muddy Waters, Don Bennington, Deirdre Bridge and myself. I am proud of each one of them but also look forward to new nominees,or volunteers, coming aboard to involve themselves in the good work of maintaining the “5 Squadron family” into the future.

Once again I remind you that there are many past members of 5 and 6 Maritime Squadrons for whom we have incomplete contact records and I urge you all to be active in referring past companions to the website www.5sqnassn.org.nz, advise me of their addresses and recruit them to join. Please be active in relaying word of illhealth, or death, of any of our former companions so that a suitable representation can be made by the Association.

Gordon Ragg AFC JP

Chairman

Gordon.Ragg@xtra.co.nz

PS. Please keep promoting the sales of “Kiwi Orions” !!

Now available souvenir mugs marking 40 years of Orion P3K service .

Order Form

The price is $20.00 each.

Godfrey Reid of Mugshotz (Ex 5 Squadron) has kindly offered to rebate 15% of mug sales proceeds to the 5 Sqn Association. As well as getting a worthwhile souvenir you will also be supporting the Association

Order direct to Mugshotz from the order form

Note Godfrey is also able to supply 5 Squadron souvenir coaster sets and mouse pads if required. A slightly lesser rebate to the Association applies to these items.

Mugshotz@clear.net.nz

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