While many young adults today head on adventures, in 1955, 18-year-old Colin Cross was off to Burnham Military Camp for 18 weeks of compulsory military training (CMT).
The Ashburton-lad had no choice; it was compulsory for all males between 1950 and 1958 when they turned 18.
Last month Colin was recognised for his services to the Ashburton Returned and Services’ Association (RSA) with a life membership award.
‘‘It was a real honour and a big thing to receive the award, I certainly wasn’t expecting it,’’ Colin said.
Colin joined the association in the mid 1990s. For 18 years he ensured patrons got safely to the RSA rooms and home again as a courtesy van driver.
Former Ashburton RSA president Merv Brenton said Colin served the association with strong leadership and loyalty.
‘‘He strongly supports and attends CMT and RSA functions, parades and gives his time very willingly when required,’’ Merv said.
‘‘A lot of friendships were formed then with people from throughout the country, and many have remained in touch ever since,’’ Colin said.
They undertook training at Burnham, taking time off from their employment.
Then over the next three years, they would do three weeks training at the Balmoral Camp in Tekapo. ‘‘Though it was November the nights were still pretty cold there,’’ Colin said.
Colin remembers his service number, 889000. He served with the Canterbury Infantry Regiment but never had to be deployed.
CMT members were trained to provide support in the event New Zealand went to war. As a result of his service, he received the New Zealand Defence Force Service Medal.
In 2005, an inaugural meeting of Ashburton CMT Association was held, and Colin was elected as chair, a role he held until earlier this year.
The CMT Association has a Mid Canterbury membership of about 15. Members enjoy getting together for outings and social events.
‘‘It’s good to spend time with others who did CMT as we have a shared experience,’’ Colin said.
