ONE of the Australian Army's youngest soldiers serving overseas is helping make a difference on the ground in southern Iraq.

19 year old Private Nathan Smith is a rifleman with the Overwatch Battle Group (West)-Two operating from the Ali Air Base, Tallil in the province of Dhi Qar.

Private Smith and more than 500 of his fellow Diggers are supporting the Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) in Dhi Qar and the neighbouring Al Muthanna province.

The Iraqi Government has overall responsibility for security in these two provinces, the first provinces to achieve this milestone. The Battle Group’s mission is to train and mentor the local security forces and to provide assistance to the ISF if requested.

Private Smith is a former student from Maryborough Regional Collage and he joined the Army in September 2005.

“I am here for security, providing protection for our people who are helping the Iraqis, it is what an infantryman does, it has been different, but it is worthwhile,” he said.

Private Smith is looking forward to seeing family and catching up with my friends in Victoria at the end of his deployment.

On return to the 5th Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment based in Darwin Private Smith aims to further develop his skills as a soldier.

“Hopefully just get on as many courses as I can to advance my career in the Army”.

Private Smith is one of some 1400 members of the Australian Defence Forces who are serving in the Middle East as part of Operation Catalyst, the Australian Government’s contribution to the reconstruction and rehabilitation of Iraq.

Working with the Iraqi Government and other coalition forces, Australian military personnel are continuing to work for a more secure environment and assist with national rehabilitation programs.

As well as supporting Iraqi security forces, the Australian Battle Group is project managing many reconstruction projects. More than 20 Australian projects have been completed, with more under way. These include water and irrigation projects, rural projects to enhance crop and animal production, health clinics, and power supply initiatives.

More: Operation Catalyst website