The entertainers who kept New Zealand troops buoyant during the Vietnam War are now eligible to receive medals.
The change will see eligible entertainers awarded the General Service Medal and the Operational Service Medal through the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF).
The medals will be awarded to those who performed in Vietnam for more than 30 days in the period between 1965 and 1972.
NZDF chief, Lieutenant General Tim Keating, said the change was timely given that 2016 marks the 50-year anniversary of the Vietnam War.
"It is especially poignant for those families of the entertainers who have passed," he said.
"We hope that the families will view these medals as we in the NZDF do. They are taonga (treasures) inherent with the mana of the person they are awarded to."
Lt Gen Keating said entertainers played "crucial roles" throughout the conflict -- with many serving six or 12-month stints in Vietnam, giving up to 20 performances a week.
Newshub.
