CDF Gen Peter Cosgrove

At the end of one of the busiest years I can remember for our Defence Force, I want to send you my best wishes for the festive season and a heartfelt "well done" to all of you for your terrific work this year, whether deployed on operations or providing vital support at home.

Let me assure you that both the Defence leadership and our Government appreciate the effort you have all put in this year supporting our thousands of colleagues scattered around the world in more than 10 operations.

The dedication, skill, flexibility and professionalism you have displayed, and continue to display contributing to our operations in the Middle East, the Solomon Islands, East Timor, around Australia's coast, in the Southern Oceans, Europe, Africa, Afghanistan and in various coalition headquarters and diplomatic missions around the world - has enhanced the ADF's excellent reputation, both in the international community and with our own community back home.

One aspect I want to congratulate you all on is the marvellous way all three Services work together, particularly in combined units - and with the civilian staff of both Defence and a range of other Government agencies.

At this special family time of year, I am very grateful for the sacrifices both you and your families are making for Defence.

Both the Australian community and the Defence leadership know that your work, and the back-up that all your families provide, is in a very good cause. We continue to help many people around the world less fortunate than ourselves, as well as keeping Australia safe now and into the future.

As most Australians celebrate, those of you not on leave continue to do your duty, vigilant, professional and tireless.

I am very proud of you all. Merry Christmas. Stay safe.

CA Lt-Gen Peter Leahy

2003 has again proven to be a busy year for all members of the Army. Soldiers have been fully committed on operations around the world and in day-to-day work in units here at home.

To each of you I say thank you for your hard work, sacrifice and dedication to duty. I look forward to your continuing commitment in 2004.

My priority for Army remains support for soldiers on operations. It is the role of all within the Army to ensure that all possible support is provided to those personnel deployed.

With soldiers currently deployed to Afghanistan, Bosnia, East Timor, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, the Middle East and the Solomon Islands, the task of those who prepare, train and sustain our forces on operations is even more vital than ever.

Australian soldiers continue to set a standard of professionalism, courage and commitment that is admired and respected by armies around the world. In often difficult and demanding situations Australian soldiers are renowned for their ability to get on with the job.

I have visited a number of operations this year and been impressed by the quality of work being done by all.

I have been pleased to see that Army is making a significant difference at home working with the community. Army is still a key participant in many DACC tasks, such as assisting state emergency organisations where necessary.

AACAP continues to be an outstanding example of practical reconciliation and maintaining the strong links and proud history between the Army and indigenous communities.

The RFSU's continue to reinforce Army's commitment to indigenous communities.

It has been another very busy year for Army and we must remember that leave is an important component of every soldier's condition of employment.

Regular leave is essential in providing respite, and ensuring soldiers are able to continue performing at the highest standards.

I urge you all to work with your commanders to ensure you take regular opportunities to rest and recuperate from the rigours of soldiering and spend time with family and friends away from the workplace.

I would like to thank the families and friends of all our soldiers, particularly those deployed. Their support and understanding allows our soldiers to focus on their jobs in the service of the nation.

The recent Defence Capability Review has provided us with an excellent opportunity to continue to develop as a hardened and networked Army. We need to ensure we support our highly educated and professional people in order to deliver the capability Government expects.

I wish you all a happy and safe Christmas and, for those on operations or serving overseas on exchange, a safe return to Australia.
Peter Leahy
Lt-Gen
Chief of Army

RSM-A WO Brian Boughton

WOW - how time flies.

It feels like yesterday that I wrote my first Christmas message and now here I am writing my last.

As usual this has again been an extremely busy year. All across the Army our members continue to do a fantastic job.

The standards that have been achieved have been recognised by nations across the world and all of us should feel justifiably proud of that.

Of course none of this happens without good people and to all of you I say thank you.

Among the challenges we have faced this year have been the issues of drugs and unacceptable behaviour, which have challenged us all.

Army continues to have a small minority who become involved in these areas.

In my view, these members are selfish and are looking after number one, which distracts them from contributing to the small teams to which they belong.

It is these small teams who rely on each other with their lives that get the job done.

None of us can operate as individuals; we all belong to a team and these teams are the foundations of our structure.

If these teams do not work because of selfish individuals then our ability to continue to achieve outstanding results is threatened.

I would hope that all members of the Army would strive to assist and look after their mates - not put themselves first.

Not everyone can be deployed on operations and I am conscious that there are soldiers in parts of the Army who continue to give loyal and dedicated service.

Rest assured that your service is valued and appreciated by Army's senior leadership.

Lastly to the families that steadfastly stand by us throughout the year can I say thank you. Without your support, none of us could achieve what we do.

And so, as my service in the Army comes to an end, I wish you all the best for the festive season and good soldiering in the future.
Brian Boughton
WO
Regimental Sergeant Major of the Army

Minister for Defence Robert Hill

We have asked a lot from the Australian Defence Force this year - and again you have delivered in spades.

On behalf of the Government and all Australians, I would like to thank you for your professionalism and dedication to defending our national interest at home and in operations abroad.

In particular, I would like to acknowledge your families and friends and the wider Defence community.

I know from my visits to deployed personnel in the Middle East and the Solomon Islands during 2003 that while separation from family and friends is difficult, the support of their loved ones is integral to morale and therefore to the success of any mission.

My very best wishes for Christmas and a safe New Year.

We have asked a lot from the Australian Defence Force this year - and again you have delivered in spades.

On behalf of the Government and all Australians, I would like to thank you for your professionalism and dedication to defending our national interest at home and in operations abroad.

In particular, I would like to acknowledge your families and friends and the wider Defence community.

I know from my visits to deployed personnel in the Middle East and the Solomon Islands during 2003 that while separation from family and friends is difficult, the support of their loved ones is integral to morale and therefore to the success of any mission.

My very best wishes for Christmas and a safe New Year.

Robert Hill
Minister for Defence

Minister Assisting the Minister for Defence Mal Brough

Merry Christmas and all the best for a fantastic 2004 to each and every member of the Australian Defence family, no matter where you may be on December, 25.

While there would be nothing better than having our troops home for Christmas, we should bear in mind how these men and women are helping provide peace and a chance to celebrate Christmas in safety for many who have never experienced this basic right.

Whether it's establishing law and order for the people of the Solomon Islands or helping liberate the repressed men, women and children of Iraq, our personnel have demonstrated yet again that the ADF is a professional and capable organisation.

To the partners and families, my particular thanks for your vital and ongoing support to the ADF.

For those fortunate to have spouses, parents, brothers and sisters at home this festive season, please enjoy the break and savour the rare opportunity for quality time together.

For those with loved ones still overseas, be assured that our thoughts are with you and we hope you can still make the best of the festive season.

We join with you in hoping your loved ones return safely and as soon as possible, when you can celebrate an additional family Christmas.

Mal Brough
Minister Assisting the Minister for Defence

Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Defence Fran Bailey

Seasons greetings to all ADF members, Defence employees and their friends and family.

With Iraq and the ongoing threat of terrorism, 2003 has been a challenging year for everyone involved in Defence.

With professionalism and dedication, Defence has overcome the challenges in the Middle East, the Solomons, across our northern border and many other areas.

The Australian community is very proud of the men and women of our Defence Forces.

People often stop me and tell me how impressed they are with our Defence Forces, as well as how appreciative they are of a job well done.

I would like to pass on my thanks for all of your efforts in 2003.

I would particularly like to thank all the ADF members who served with distinction on active service.

My best wishes and thanks to all of those who will be on active service over Christmas, as well as to their friends and family.

With best wishes for a safe and happy Christmas.

Fran Bailey
Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Defence

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