Helmet Head

My Dear Princess and Dear Fellow,

Macca and her son Jackson were in town. She is looking to move from Tauranga to Wellington and the Kāpiti coast is on her radar. 

Jackson is very much into army stuff and wants to join up when he is 18. And while this means I have absolutely nothing to offer by way of conversation, Caro was able to give him a military experience by way of her driving instructor.

For you see, it turns out that Driving Instructor has a bunker. "Das Bunker" as he calls it. It contains his collection of military paraphernalia. 

Driving Instructor started collecting as a kid (his dad was in the military) and then continued on throughout his life. As a result, he got involved in the NZ film industry working with Peter Jackson amongst others to supply them with props and authentic costumes. 

Jackson found all this fascinating. We went around the bunker looking at anti-aircraft guns, rifles, medals and helmets. Lots of helmets. 

Driving Instructor also explained all the permits he needs to have all of this stuff and how he acquires it. A lot is donated by the military personnel who love this stuff and come to visit him. 

I guess in this way Jackson is a future investment for him. I can see Jackson returning in 10 years' time with his SAS coin or a pistol he picked up while on a peacekeeping mission in some far-flung country. 

As for me, I have to admit it was not of much interest. I like history but guns 'n' ammo isn't really my thing. I like the stories behind the weapons, not the weapons themselves.

However, there was ONE item that drew my attention. 

"Is that MY Uzi?" said Caro.

What now?

It turns out that Caro's driving lessons paid for half of an Uzi. It hung proudly from the ceiling. 

You see? The story behind the weapon. Caro's Uzi. Now that's interesting. And possibly a bit scary.

S.