WILLBOND Edward George

464557, Staff Sergeant, 161 Battery, Royal New Zealand Artillery

 

CITATION

British Empire Medal [military]

Gazetted 6 June 1969, Supp 44865, p6003

Staff Sergeant Willbond enlisted in the Regular Force in 1956 and qualified as an Instructor and a Clerk. In June 1965 he became Battery Clerk of 161 Battery and contributed significantly to the mounting and administration of that sub-unit on the eve of its deployment to active service in Vietnam. He moved to Vietnam on the first flight and throughout his tour was noted for his cooperation, initiative and devotion to duty. He was at all times an inspiration to younger gunners.  On return from Vietnam in 1966 he became Battery Clerk of 161 Battery Depot. In this capacity he has been responsible for the administrative processing of all personnel to and from 161 Battery and the remainder of the NZ V Force commitment. He has, in fact, evolved many minor procedures that considerably expedite this system.  His appointment frequently involves duties outside normal working hours including returns to duty at short notice to coincide with late amendments to aircraft schedules. This he has done without either complaint or loss of efficiency.  Staff Sergeant Willbond is an efficient and loyal soldier who has served his country well on active service and continues by his ability, common sense and application to do so in New Zealand. His devotion to duty and ready acceptance of added responsibility has brought credit both on himself and the Royal Regiment of New Zealand Artillery.

KNOWN AWARDS

British Empire Medal [mil]

Queen's Vietnam Medal

Vietnam Star

1960

NOTES

Born 27 February 1937 New Zealand

Died 25 September 1999 New Zealand

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