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Russell Peacock, Trish Grace and Tim Brusch - Care packages from RSL keep morale high for deployed troops

Australian Defence Force (ADF) members serving in Baghdad have had a welcome surprise in the mail in the form of care packages from the Returned and Services League (RSL).

Individual boxes – enough for every person – have arrived packed full of edible treats, games and reading material.

The Officer Commanding Australia’s Security Detachment in Baghdad (SECDET), Major Ewen Hedges, said the RSL care packages are a real touchstone to Australia and a huge morale booster for the troops.

“The biggest thing with the care packages is that it means someone at home is thinking of us.

“We really appreciate the fact that people have been reaching into their pockets and spending the time and effort to put together these packages.

“We eat a lot of American food over here, and frankly, to get a packet of Allens Snakes or some Anzac biscuits in the mail really does bring a smile to our face.”

More than 100 soldiers and airmen are serving with SECDET. They are responsible for ensuring protection and mobility for Australia’s Embassy staff in Iraq.