CA's Australia Day message'
You have much to be proud of'

I wish the men and women of the Australian Army at home and aboard a happy and safe Australia Day.

Australia Day is a special day for our nation. It is a day when Australians everywhere have the opportunity to reflect on their achievements over the past year, look forward to the future and celebrate those characteristics and traditions that make us uniquely Australian.

Last year, the nation celebrated its Centenary of Federation while the Australian Army also celebrated the centenary of its formation.

It has been an honour and a privilege to be the Chief of Army and the Australian of the Year during this significant period.

The Australian Army has begun 2002, as it did the year of its foundation, with young men and women on operational service overseas.

In 1901 we served in South Africa. Today we have soldiers contributing to peacekeeping, peace monitoring and military assistance missions all over the world.

Our Special Forces troops and members of the 16 AD Regt are at the forefront of Australia's contribution to the coalition against terrorism. In East Timor, the Australian Army contributes to the ongoing development of the world's newest nation. Australian troops continue to do the nation proud in Eritrea/Ethiopia, the Solomon Islands, Bougainville, the Middle East, Bosnia, Sierra Leone and Mozambique.

Australian soldiers have always performed to the highest standard and are magnificent examples of the Australian spirit. The Army's values of courage, initiative and teamwork are at the heart of what it means to be an Australian.

The Army community is the foundation on which we base all our endeavours. Without the support of our loved ones, our work would be that much more difficult. Your work and your tireless efforts are greatly appreciated and respected by all Australians. It is testimony to your excellent work that Australian soldiers are continually sought after for their assistance all over the world. You have the nation's thanks and its support.

You, and your families, have a lot to be proud of.

Enjoy this day, for you all deserve it.

P.J. Cosgrove
Lt-Gen
Chief of Army