From WO2 Al Green in Iraq
For the past four months soldiers, sailors and airmen deployed on Op Falconer (Iraqi Freedom) have experienced history unfolding - first hand.

Now a few have witnessed another “once in a lifetime event” – meeting the President of the United States on his recent visit to the Middle East Area of Operations.

Such is the high regard held by the Americans for the Australian personnel deployed that 40 were invited to share the stage, to be seated behind the President as he thanked coalition troops for their war winning efforts.

The American President’s visit was short but highly charged with many pauses as the American troops cheered, being especially loud when the President paid acknowledgment to the Australian men and women in uniform.

“Though it’s a different political culture,” said Capt Rory Patterson, “we appreciated the President’s acknowledgment of all our forces – those who fought the war and those that are now working for the peace.”

For RAAF Wg-Cmdr Charlie Siedentopf the atmosphere was almost surreal.

“It was different from anything I’ve experienced and I was honoured to be given the opportunity to be a part of it,” he said.

Australian Army Sgt Tatjana Zuchart said it was easy to be caught up in the euphoria.

“It was pretty awesome to be able to get that close to the President,” she said.

Sqn-Ldr Arnie Delvins said he was surprised at the reaction of some Americans who seem to regard the President like a rock-star.

“One US Soldier leapt forward to shake his hand, nearly knocking a girl off the platform – the Aussies grabbed her just in time,” he said.

But despite the hype, the close protective security and the pace of the visit, the President took time out to shake hands and talk to the troops.

“He said he wanted to thank all Australians for their support and I like the fact he took the time to shake hands and say a few words,” said RAN Capt Sheldon Williams after he shook the President’s hand.

As the Presidential convoy left in a sea of dust, the Aussies at the National Headquarters were soon back at work in support of our forces still hard at work in the MEAO.

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