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Helping a friend
By CPL Mike McSweeney
Volume 50, No. 12, July 12, 2007 |
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Within 24 hours of HMAS Toowoomba arriving on station in the Northern Persian Gulf on January 21, a senior group of Iraqi naval officers were aboard the ship.
HMAS Toowoomba CO CMDR Jaimie Hatcher said the officers and sailors were there to learn how to conduct maritime security operations.
“They came aboard and we sat down for a coffee and a chat,” CMDR Hatcher said.
“I explained to them that as the captain of Toowoomba we were a guest in their country and I was there to help them as best as I possibly could.
“We reciprocated gifts, and at the end of it, we discussed the way their life had been affected in recent years. It gave a real sense of purpose for our mission here and a sense that our work gives Iraqis real hope for their future.”
In addition to conducting maritime security operations as part of Op Catalyst, HMAS Toowoomba was also tasked with training the Iraqi navy. “It’s a fantastic opportunity. I’ve been up here three times now. The other two times were to participate in war against Iraq. So on two occasions they were the enemy. On this occasion they are a friend, and a friend that needs help.” |
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