New flag at Smitty
Volume 11, No. 45, June 15, 2006 By Maj Mark Tanzer

Ray of light: Sunset at Camp Smitty in Al Muthanna province. Photo by AB Kade Rogers

A SMALL ceremony at Camp Smitty has marked the formal hand-over between AMTG2 and AMTG3 in southern Iraq.
Fanned by a hot desert wind, soldiers gathered to watch the CO of AMTG2, Lt-Col Peter Short, and RSM WO1 Keith Wrigt lower the 5/7RAR flag.

It was then the turn of CO AMTG3 Lt-Col Michael Mahy and RSM WO1 David Hatton to step forward and raise the 2RAR flag for the first time at Camp Smitty.

Lt-Col Mahy praised AMTG2 for the work it had performed during its tour of duty in the province.

“We are honoured to be following in the footsteps of AMTG2,” Lt-Col Mahy said. “Through their devotion to duty and professionalism, they have made a difference to the lives of the people of Al Muthanna. All Australians can be proud of their achievements.

“Task Group 3 will continue this good work, within the mission of helping to bring security and stability to the Iraqi people.”
Lt-Col Mahy’s first task as CO was to promote two soldiers – LCpl Daniel Smith, 2RAR, to Cpl and Pte Chris Barry, also of 2RAR, to LCpl.

“It’s a great privilege to command on operations, but it’s a greater honour to promote soldiers serving their country overseas,” he said.

AMTG3 mainly comprises soldiers from 2RAR and 2/14LHR (QMI).