Our People in QLD
Cade Cooper - Fernvale man’s job of choice in Baghdad
19-year old Private Cade Cooper joined the Army as an infantryman in mid 2006 and is now assigned to Security Detachment 12 (SECDET XII), operating in support of the Australian Embassy in Baghdad.
“When I was at school the Army was the only thing I had really any interest in,” Private Cooper said. “I couldn’t see myself doing anything else.”
Private Cooper said he has his goal was always to be an infantryman. “I wanted to be active and keep fit,” he said. “It’s been a good challenge, and that’s kept me motivated.”
SECDET XII’s job is to protect the Australian Embassy staff in Baghdad as part of Operation Catalyst, Australia’s contribution to the rehabilitation of Iraq. Private Cooper said serving with SECDET meant he was part of a strong team.
“The guys here are amongst the best I’ve ever known,” he said. “You know you can trust them; they will back you up and put in as much effort you do.”
Private Cooper said he also gets plenty of support from his father, who still lives in Fernvale. “My dad backed my decision to join the Army,” he said. “His supports what I do here, but he’s told me to keep my head down.”
While Private Cooper said he was keen to get back to Ferndale to have a few beers with his mates, he was happy to be serving in Baghdad. “I’m proud to be here,” he said. “It’s what I want to be doing.”