Whanganui man Selwyn Ponga-Davis has received the award for New Zealand Defence Force’s Civilian of the Year.
He is recognised for his efforts to lead the NZDF’s “Mates For Life” initiative that encourages people to watch out for each other in the Defence Force.
The Linton and Burnham based Health and Safety Advisor says “I am humbled by the award and will always strive to uphold the core values of our Defence Force.”
NZDF Chief People Officer Debbie Francis says the award acknowledges civilian personnel who go above and beyond to support their military colleagues.
“Selwyn exhibits and promotes the NZDF values of courage, commitment and comradeship and it is my great pleasure to make the inaugural NZDF Civilian of the Year Award to him,” says Ms Francis.
Ponga-Davis has also been nominated for the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) Person of the Year Award which will be announced on 8 December.