As preparations escalate for Tribute 08, a commemoration and reunion for New Zealand Vietnam War veterans being held in Wellington in late May, New Zealand Red Cross is searching for a special Vietnam veteran, known by many she served with as ‘Kiwi Sister’. 

Isobel Beaumont was a New Zealand Red Cross aid worker who played a vital role caring for wounded soldiers during the Vietnam War. 

During the war two New Zealand Red Cross aid workers, Isobel Beaumont and Avis Wilkes, were deployed to work as welfare support personnel at hospitals in Vung Tau, Vietnam and Changi, Singapore and. The pair, the only two New Zealand Red Cross aid workers deployed in this position, were accredited to the New Zealand Army.

On 9 April 1970 Miss Beaumont departed for Vietnam where she worked at the Vung Tau 1st Australian Field Hospital. She carried the rank of Assistant Superintendent and wore a New Zealand Red Cross uniform.

Miss Beaumont was the first ever New Zealand Red Cross aid worker accredited to the New Zealand Army while in the field

Following a year in Vietnam Miss Beaumont was transferred to Changi Hospital in Singapore and promoted to the rank of Superintendent.

During her two years of service Miss Beaumont was highly regarded by patients and staff, with Kiwi soldiers giving her the nickname ‘Kiwi sister’.

Assistant Superintendent Avis Wilkes was also deployed on behalf on New Zealand Red Cross.  Miss Wilkes was based at Vung Tau 1st Australian Field Hospital in Vietnam for five months from June to November 1971.

Both Miss Beaumont and Miss Wilkes are entitled to the General Service Medal with clasp Vietnam and the New Zealand Operational Service Medal.

Miss Wilkes will receive her medals during the Tribute08 event, and if Miss Beaumont can be located in time, she could have her medals presented then too.

New Zealand Red Cross International Operations Manager Andrew McKie says many soldiers who served in Vietnam have fond memories of both women and the Tribute08 commemorations could be a great opportunity for their service to be officially recognised.

* Please note that Miss Isobel Beaumont may now have different name through marriage.

For more information please contact New Zealand Red Cross Communications and Marketing Manager Denise Mackay on +64 4 495 0137 or +64 27 296 9687