Global Operations: Operation CATALYST
PM Thanks Troops
Prime Minister Kevin Rudd has thanked the men and women of the defence force at a welcome home parade marking the end of their six-year mission in Iraq.
He was joined at the ceremony by Governor General Quentin Bryce, Chief of the Defence Force Air Chief Marshall Angus Houston, Defence Minister John Faulkner and Minister for Defence Materiel Greg Combet.
More than 300 veterans marched past hundreds of onlookers at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.
They were joined by Australia’s Federation Guard and the Band of the Royal Military College of Australia.
Mr Rudd paid tribute to all those who served as part of Operation Catalyst, commending their courage and exemplary service.
“You are the Anzacs of today, and you should be proud, as we are proud of you,” Mr Rudd said.
Both the Prime Minister and CDF paid tribute to the three men who didn’t come home from their service in Iraq – Warrant Officer Class Two David Nary, Private Jacob Kovco and Flight Lieutenant Paul Pardoel.
Air Chief Marshal Houston, said that Operation Catalyst highlighted the unique mix of determination, practicality and compassion shown by Australian servicemen and women.
“As your Chief, I am immensely proud of you…your efforts were, without exception, simply superb. I could not have asked, nor expected, any more of you,” he said.
CDF also thanked families for the support they provided on the home front.
“Without their love and encouragement, the men and women of the ADF would not have been able to perform as well as they did. For that I am most grateful.” Air Chief Marshal Houston said.
Operation Catalyst was the ADF's contribution to the US-led Multinational Force to develop a stable environment in Iraq. A total of 17 309 ADF personnel deployed to support the operation between 2003 and 2009.See imagery | See video