// Avionics Squadron Digs Deep For Tsunami Victims
Often in the Royal New Zealand Air Force, we get up close and personal with natural disasters, but it is usually in someone else’s country, and we are helping people we don’t know.
Cheque Handover
With a disaster happening right on New Zealand’s back door, it was inevitable that people from within our community would be affected. When Peniamina Le Doux-Taua’a, (Ben), came into work and mentioned that his village had been struck by the recent tsunami, Avionics Squadron took the opportunity to help out in a way not normally possible. Rather than just make a donation, it was decided to raise funds to specifically help Ben’s village. The intention was to have an all-ranks function where the proceeds would go to the people of Vavau. To sweeten the deal and garner numbers, a sausage sizzle was held, and thanks to the generosity of local businesses and the Parachute Jumping Instructors, a draw was organised for those who donated.
In less than one week after finding out about Ben’s village, personnel at AV SQN had raised $3,026.50. Such an overwhelming response is what makes the RNZAF such a great place. So many people dug deep to help one of our own.
Our thanks go to all who donated or gave up time to help with the base fundraiser.
Letter of thanks
From CPL Le Doux-Taua’a, RNZAF
The recent tsunami hit the southern coast of Samoa leaving in its wake death and destruction. Mine is a small village called Vavau that is part of the Lotofaga district in Upolu. Half of my village was swept away, fortunately Vavau only suffered material loss and all lives were spared.
I have been overwhelmed and humbled by the generosity shown to me by everyone I have come in contact with. Your support and kindness shown have left me speechless. I would like to extend on behalf of my village, family and myself, gratitude and kind wishes to you all, and express how honoured I am to be a part of this RNZAF family.