Reason to be proud
Outgoing Task Group Commander praises efforts of his troops in MEAO

By WGCDR Bob Rodgers
Volume 48, No. 11, June 29, 2006

The men and women of the AP-3C detachment salute Commander Task Group, WGCDR Tony McCormack, for the last time on the flightline in the Middle East.

WGCDR Tony McCormack addresses his troops as his four-month tour of duty on Operation Catalyst comes to an end.

Photos by WGCDR Bob Rodgers

OUTGOING Commander of Air Force’s AP-3C detachment in the Middle East, WGCDR Tony McCormack, has praised his troops for their continued good work.

The men and women of the detachment (Task Group 633.2) formed ranks and came to attention for the farewell ‘General Salute’ of their Commander as his four-month tour of duty came to an end.

“Four months ago I stood here and said that my intention was to ensure that this Task Group maintained the high standards that our predecessors had set,” WGCDR McCormack said.

“My intention was to also ensure that we continued to provide combat capability that our nation can be proud of.

“I stand here today knowing that we have met that aim.”

The Commander Joint Task Force 633 (C-130 detachment), Brigadier Michael Moon, attended the changeover ceremony, where he and WGCDR McCormack jointly handed out certificates of promotion to personnel and ‘badged’ those promoted.

WGCDR McCormack, who is returning to his position as CO 11SQN, has been succeeded by WGCDR Neville Dawson.
WGCDR Dawson hopes to continue the good work already being undertaken.

The AP-3C detachment operates two AP-3C aircraft detached from 10 and 11SQNs at RAAF Base Edinburgh.
The group of about 160 personnel is drawn from all trades and specialties and recently chalked up 8000 hours flown in support of operations in the Middle East.

The group conducts missions in support of Operations Catalyst and Slipper.

These missions engage the Task Group across the broad Middle East Area of Operations, working closely with Army and Navy units.

 

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