The Regular Force Cadet Association

About W.A. (Bill)

W.A. (Bill) says...

On graduating from the cadets, I became a Driver-Mechanic in the Army School Transport Section. Whilst there, I joined the Fire Brigade as a volunteer. On hearing that the Army School was moving to Waiouru, I bought myself out of the army and joined the Fire Brigade permanently. However, that was fairly short-lived as I developed ulcerative colitis. Next I joined the Post Office, later Telecom, rising to the position of Chief Technical Service Officer. In the latter stage of my career, I moved into the IT field. Not long after joining the Post Office, I had major surgery (ileostomy) to cure the ulcerative colitis. This left me with a permanent stoma, and having to wear a bag for the rest of my life. In 1969 I assisted in the establishment of the Wellington Ostomy Assn. and holding many positions of office. Then 1972, was elected to the Federation of New Ostomy Societies, again holding many positions of office. On retiring in 1989, I set up my own business and managed two computer projects. At a loose end in 1993, I became a volunteer with the Police. In 1997, I was asked to work in the CIB and set up a support group. This continues today, where I also have paid work, mainly assisting with trials, transporting and accompanying prosecution witnesses. In 2002, I was awarded the QSM for public service. I live in Tawa, have two married daughters and a grand-daughter and grandson. Email: warees@xtra.co.nz