NZ Afghanistan service recognized by the U.S.

New Zealand Defence Minister Phil Goff welcomed the awarding of medals Monday by the United States to 17 members of the New Zealand Defence Force.

Ten New Zealanders have been awarded the Bronze Star and seven have been awarded the United States Army Commendation Medal in recognition of exemplary service in Afghanistan between 2004 and 2005.

The recipients of these awards served in a wide variety of roles and undertook a range of tasks. Most were acknowledged for their work with the New Zealand Provincial Reconstruction Team in Bamyan but several received awards for work in staff or headquarters roles.

"We are proud of the way our forces have served in Afghanistan and what they have achieved. New Zealanders have contributed to Bamyan becoming one of the most stable, secure and progressive provinces in Afghanistan," said Goff.

Also, about 85 New Zealand army, navy and air force personnel are on their way Monday to Afghanistan where they will be involved in security and rebuilding infrastructure.

Source: Xinhua