Naval history book launch

The Chief of Navy, Rear Admiral Tony Parr, is hosting the launch of two naval histories, North Sea Warrior and A War By Stealth, written by Gerry Wright.

These stories profile the heroic roles of two New Zealanders who played key roles in the Royal Navy during a time of real need in World War II.

What: The launch of North Sea Warrior and A War By Stealth, written by Gerry Wright

When: 28 April 2010 at 6:30pm.

Where: HMNZS OLPHERT, Corner of Buckle and Taranaki Streets, Wellington.

Books will be available for cash purchase and signing by Gerry Wright.

About the author:

Gerry Wright joined the Royal New Zealand Navy as a 16 year old Seaman Boy, Second Class, in 1955. He was later promoted through the Upper Yardman Scheme to officer rank and retired as a Lieutenant Commander in 1981 when told he was too old to go to sea.

During his career he took part in the British nuclear weapons testing off Christmas Island, commanded four naval ships and was a trained helicopter controller and Principal Warfare Officer.

The stories of two naval heroes - Lieutenant Commander Jim Macdonald DSO DSC**Mid(2) RNZNVR and Lieutenant Walter Drake DSC RNZNVR

The wartime stories of New Zealand’s naval heroes are not often told, and yet they are central to our history. Two books have recently been published by Gerry Wright that will go a long way towards correcting this imbala.