CDF plugs into Op Anode

From Cpl Sean Burton in the Solomon Islands

CDF Gen Peter Cosgrove has paid a low-key visit to Australian troops serving on Op Anode as part of the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands.

Gen Cosgrove, a former Vietnam infantry officer, visited troops on Vietnam Veterans Day where he told 2RAR soldiers that the broad intent was to get the policing effort settled and reduce the number of combat troops in the Solomon Islands as soon as possible.

“We will reduce the number of combat troops as soon as we can, but I’ve got no misapprehension that there’s still a job of work to do, particularly when the amnesty finishes and for the period after that,” he said.

“So if anything, you guys should be on your toes then as at any stage since you arrived.

“On the logistics side I can see ongoing work for the engineers for quite some time. Rotary winged transport will be a big issue and quite possibly military for some time but, as and when we can, we will replace the military logistics with civilian contractors.

“We have to plan well in advance for these things. So that’s the way my mind’s working on this mission here. I see it not in terms of months but in years.

“I don’t want to keep you guys here longer than necessary because I don’t know what our next operation may be. Who knows what’s around the corner?

“I think the operation will continue with a multi-national force, that’s for sure, and I’m delighted to see those guys here today.”

After talking to 2RAR soldiers, CDF departed Camp RAMSI, the joint police and military headquarters at the former Gaudalcanal Beach Resort and flew to Avu Avu and Goldridge to visit troops who are supporting police at the newly-established police posts.

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