CA Lt-Gen Peter Leahy has thanked the New Zealand Army for its vital contribution to the success of Op Anode.

In a personal letter to his NZ counterpart CGS Maj-Gen Jerry Mateparae, Lt-Gen Leahy wrote:

"I wish to thank you for the very vital contribution your forces made to the Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands.

"The success of the mission to date would not have been possible without the significant contribution made by the New Zealand contingent.

"By all accounts your troops acquitted themselves with utmost professionalism, working tirelessly to assist with the restoration of law and order in the Solomons.

"The recent mission is a fine example of the co-operation and close relations that exist between our Armies.

"Our Anzac heritage continues to demonstrate success and the experiences of working alongside one another in the Solomon Islands, East Timor and Bougainville have reaffirmed this.

"The contribution made by New Zealand is greatly appreciated by the Australian Army.

Once again, on behalf of the Australian Army, I thank you for your contribution."

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