Defence News
New Commander in the Middle East
18 January 2012
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Major General Stuart Smith AM has taken over as Commander of Australian forces serving in the Middle East Area of Operations.
After completing 12 months as Commander, Major General Angus Campbell AM formally handed over command of Australian Defence Force Joint Task Force 633 to Major General Smith on 17 January.
Commander Joint Task Force 633 commands all ADF units assigned to Operation SLIPPER – Australia’s military contribution to the international campaign against terrorism, maritime security in the Middle East Area of Operations and countering piracy in the Gulf of Aden.
ADF personnel and coalition partners marked the formal transition of Command with a ceremony at Al Minhad Air Base in the United Arab Emirates.
Major General Campbell described leading Australian troops deployed to the Middle East and Afghanistan as the pinnacle of his career and commended the efforts of the service men and women he had met during his time as Commander.
“I will never forget the sacrifice made by the fallen; the compassion, dedication and courage of our soldiers, sailors and airmen who have served their country with distinction. I am very proud of each and every one of them,” Major General Campbell said.
Major General Campbell said that during his appointment he had observed significant progress in Uruzgan Province, where the majority of ADF personnel are deployed.
“I welcome Major General Smith, and know he will lead Australian troops with distinction,” he said
Major General Smith congratulated the outgoing commander on a successful tour and thanked him for his hard work and dedication.
Major General Campbell will return to Australia and take a period of leave before assuming the role of Deputy Chief of Army.