Incident in Waiouru - Family Statement

The New Zealand Defence Force is releasing this statement on behalf of the family of Flight Sergeant Andrew Forster who was tragically killed at Waiouru Army Base yesterday.

Glen Langvad (Andrew’s brother in law), speaking on behalf of the family, has requested that all media respect their privacy and regard this as the only statement they intend to make. He says;

“Andrew is the loved husband of Karen and father of Candice, Mitchell and Ashlee.

“He was a devoted family man and an awesome all round good Kiwi bloke.

“Andrew was very well liked and he will be missed terribly by friends and colleagues and will be remembered as a well respected and deeply loved guy who was passionate about his career and loved his time in the Royal New Zealand Air Force.

“During his 27 years in the NZDF he travelled and worked in the Middle East, UK and most recently completed a tour with the New Zealand Provincial Reconstruction Team based in Bamyan province in Afghanistan.

“He always knew the work he was doing could be dangerous but he was committed to protecting his mates while on deployment and was enjoying the challenges of his new role with the Explosives Ordinance Disposal squadron in Trentham.

“Karen and the family send their heartfelt love and best wishes to all of Andrew’s family, friends and colleagues and their thoughts are with the other airman who was injured.

“Andrew is much loved and will be greatly missed.”

ENDS

For more information please contact: SQNLDR Kavae Tamariki 021 420 899