Operation SLIPPER
Middle East forces reflect on another busy year of operations
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The Commander of Australian Forces in the Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO), Major General Mark Kelly, has praised the efforts of all ADF personnel who have been deployed in support of Australia’s military contribution to security operations in the region.
Australia’s military contribution to Afghanistan and the MEAO is part of the nation’s on-going commitment to Coalition efforts against international terrorism, countering piracy in the Gulf of Aden, and maritime security.
Australia’s deployment, comprising around 1550 personnel in Afghanistan and a further 850 across the Middle East, is known as Operation SLIPPER.
“It has been another busy year for Australian Defence Force personnel deployed across the Middle East theatre of operations – one filled with many positive results and accomplishments, while at the same time tinged with the sadness brought about the loss of four comrades killed in action in Afghanistan,” Major General Kelly said.
“First and foremost we remember those Australian soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice in the performance of their duty in 2009: Privates Gregory Sher and Benjamin Ranaudo, Corporal Mathew Hopkins and Sergeant Brett Till.
“They, along with those who have fallen before them, will be remembered by us always,” Major General Kelly said.
Over the past 12 months, Australian forces have continued their mission. Key highlights have included: