Our People in the NT
Ben Trewartha - ALICE SPRINGS SOLDIER DOING HIS BIT FOR TIMOR-LESTE
These days Ben is a private with the 7th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, which is based at Robertson Barracks in Darwin.
The 24 year old is now serving with the International Stabilisation Force in the fledgling new nation.
“I’m the crew commander of an Armoured Personnel Carrier, we drive around the country and provide security to the locals,” said Ben.
“Our presence provides the local community with a real sense of security.”
This is his second deployment overseas since joining the Army in 2005. He previously served in Afghanistan and is currently based in the capital city of Timor-Leste, Dili.
“I’ve enjoyed the difference between the two deployments and the ability to work in different locations and once again, getting a chance to give people a fair go,” Ben said.
“My most memorable moments in Timor-Leste, so far, have been the reactions of kids when we drive past,” he said.
Ben comes from a proud military family. Both his great grandfathers were in Egypt with the Light Horse during World War One, while one of his grandfathers was in the Air Force during World War Two.
His father is a Vietnam veteran and was in the Army for 36 years, while his mother was an Army nurse.
“I joined the military to serve my country, it’s a good job, I wanted to travel and help others,” said Ben.
“When I get home I’m really looking forward to spending time with my partner Sarah and seeing friends and family,” he said.
Ben’s one of about 780 Australian Defence Force personnel currently serving in Timor-Leste as part of Operation Astute, the Australian Government response to the Timorese Government’s request for assistance in restoring peace to their country.
The Australians, as part of the International Stabilisation Force, are assisting the Government of Timor-Leste and the United Nations Police to provide a secure environment for all.