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Darwin's
crucial role
RAAF Base Darwin Base Commander Wing Commander Scott Winchester
has praised his staff's efforts in coming to the aid of the victims
of the Bali bombing.
In the days after the tragedy, RAAF Base Darwin played a crucial
role in Op Bali Assist.
The base acted as a launching pad for the Australian Defence Force's
Aeromedical Evacuation teams, which ferried the seriously injured
back to Darwin for urgent medical treatment, and then on again to
southern destinations.
This marked increase in activity in and out of the base challenged
Darwin's personnel and resources, with staff called on at very short
notice to work long hours.
From the team at the Air Terminal Squadron detachment, Security
Police and Military Working Dog handlers to stretcher bearers from
321CSS and 114MCRU and medical, base command post, and ground support
personnel, WGCDR Winchester said everyone displayed "professionalism
second to none".
Many personnel put in a 60-70 hour week, with some working mammoth
30-hour shifts, ensuring Op Bali Assist was handled efficiently
and successfully.
A week after the bombing, life had returned to normal at RAAF Base
Darwin, but it gave WGCDR Winchester a chance to reflect on how
well the operation went.
"The way No. 321 Combat Support Squadron and RAAF Darwin personnel
responded to the Bali operation was a credit to all involved,"
he said. "I am extremely proud of the efforts RAAF Darwin in
support of Op Bali Assist."
WGCDR Winchester's sentiments were echoed by Air Vice-Marshal John
Kindler and Combat Support Group Commander Air Commodore Stewart
Cameron.
"Many thanks for a great job to you and all concerned,"
AVM Kindler said in a message to WGCDR Winchester. "We could
not have done this without your efforts, which were outstanding,
yet again."
AIRCDRE Cameron was also full of praise. "You have all done
a magnificent job. Please pass on my personal thanks and appreciation
to all concerned," he said.
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