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In 2007 Willie Apiata, of the NZ Army's elite SAS unit, was awarded the Victoria Cross for carrying a wounded soldier to safety while under fire in Afghanistan. This documentary had exclusive access to Corporal Apiata, from the moment he was told about the VC to his decision a few weeks later to gift the medal to the nation. The shy soldier struggles to deal with his sudden celebrity, and military bosses have to cope with the dual demand of handling media interest in the VC win while still keeping the work of the SAS relatively secret.
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I tip my cap to you Mr Apiata. You are an ambassador not just for New Zealand but for the people of the world. I would like to thank the people of New Zealand that have put their lives on the line, so that I and others can walk freely in the Countries of our birth.
I found this a very emotional film to watch.
I come from a Scottish town that has 3 VC recipients.
Tena Koe Ta Apiata, umm am a student attending Hato Paora and would like to comment on how much of an influence you have been for me and friends. I feel it's choice to see that your setting the bench mark for us taiohi
What an awesome man you are Willie Apiata , after watching Australian SASR soldier Ben Robert Smith receive his VC , you men are truly inspirational in a world where there is little honesty and integrity . I am a proud maori living in WA and to all our youngsters in NZ and Australia these men truly are role models .
What an absolutely splendid piece of New Zealand film. Remarkably well-planned, excellently executed, and accompanied by a fine score, it is often deeply moving. Well done, Steven O'Meagher. You've given Willie Apiata and all New Zealand citizens great inspiration and reason for great pride.
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Television, 1990 (Full Length)
A documentary about the Maori Battalion
Television, 2008 (Excerpts)
A documentary about another Maori war hero
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Dave Richards
Posted at 09.24PM - 09.12.2011
You are a inspiration, you're humbleness speaks volumes. An absolute pleasure to have watched and listened to your story. I served with a Regiment who's history was Rorkes Drift, and Sir Tasker Watkins VC. This was very emotional. I devote my time to The Royal British Legion, supporting the families of the fallen, and injured service personnel, and I will share this with them. Thank you Willie Apiata VC. This world needs more people like you.