Welcoming our new SMA

WO1 Moffitt (right) receives a gift from WO1 Douglas

The ceremony in pre pandemic times would have been held at the Army Marae in Waiouru, but instead took place beside the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at the Pukeahu National War Memorial.

Pointing to the tomb, MAJGEN Boswell said the soldier was a symbol of the Army’s service. “He is testimony of the pride in New Zealand’s contribution to all wars; a reminder of the sacrifice of Kiwi soldiers, sailors and airmen; and of the importance of honour and duty.

“This sacred place, this soldier, also serves to remind those of us who have the privilege to lead New Zealand service men and women of the enormity of that responsibility. The Sergeant Major of the Army is both the senior soldier, and a senior leader, of the New Zealand Army, and therefore shares that responsibility. The appointment of SMA, the pinnacle of a soldier’s career, recognises an individual’s character, exemplary service and their standing as a leader. That he or she personifies Army’s ethos and values, sets high personal and professional standards, and not only demands excellence of themselves, but all they serve.”

MAJGEN Boswell went on to speak about how the SMA wields great respect and influence, and is a position that holds great mana. “You are a key advisor to me on matters not only affecting the training, management and welfare of our soldiers, but the New Zealand Army’s command environment and our strategic direction.”

He told WO1 Moffitt he had every confidence in him as the 16 th Sergeant Major of the New Zealand Army. “It is clear you understand the enormity of the appointment. But you are a fine soldier and leader, a warrant officer of great experience and proven service. You are the right person for the job and the opportunity is now yours. An opportunity that I know you will not only embrace but excel at.”

Paying tribute to the outgoing SMA, WO1 Clive Douglas, MAJGEN Boswell said he had met every requirement of his appointment, and could take great pride in not only what he had achieved but the manner in which he had executed his responsibilities.

“You have upheld, in every way and at all times, the mana of the Sergeant Major of the Army. It has been an honour to have worked alongside you over the past year and a half. I have gained significantly from your support but, more importantly, Army has gained from your service. Rounds complete my friend, rest, stand clear.”

Wreaths were laid at the tomb to honour the fallen, and to honour the families of those who serve. WO1 Douglas presented an intricately carved ceremonial pace stick to WO1 Moffitt as a taonga that represents previous SMA and the future. Each paua shell insert represents the former NZ SMA. There is also scope to have names placed into the pace stick to present its true whakapapa.

He also presented a mere made of Kohatu Pakohe from the Ruapehu region. This rock is also abundant in the Nelson area and links both Islands, thereby forging a bond of leadership and guidance .

SMA’s mere.