KEY POINTS:
A small town was abuzz last night after the announcement that one of its own was a war hero.
Corporal Willy Apiata grew up in Te Kaha in eastern Bay of Plenty.
His uncle, Paul O'Brien, said he was "blown away" by the news.
"How wonderful for him. How wonderful for us," he said."We're proud, as his community, to support him and maybe we'll have a celebration when he returns back to our area."
Corporal Apiata had received military awards previously, but this had been a surprise, he said.
"He's achieved to his highest level and we're just rapt for him. He's always tried his hardest since he's been in the military and, as I say, stepped up to the mark when he's required."
The town's famous son was born in Mangakino. He spent his early years in Northland before moving to the Bay of Plenty. He has a son aged 4 but is separated.
To help someone in need was in character, Mr O'Brien said.
"He would do that, put his own safety secondary to his comrades'. He's always been someone to help his family and the community."
Mary Walker taught Corporal Apiata from about age 13 to 15.
"I can't speak highly enough of him. I mean, his life wasn't always straightforward, but he was always a good lively person.
"He's one of those young men ... he would always do his best and friendships were very important."
- NZPA
