Our People in QLD
Scott Leonard - Nudgee Man’s Baghdad Experience
Just take Nudgee’s Scott Leonard, who is helping the Iraqi Army to become better-equipped to deal with its security responsibilities.
Scott, 42, has previously served in East Timor but now he is in Baghdad as an “embedded” logistics staff officer with the Multi-National Security Transition Command.
“My job is to manage the current Logistics operations to ensure the best outcome for the Iraqi Security Forces.
“My biggest project to date has been the development of an accountability manual to improve security and visibility of equipment. This ensures that equipment really gets to the Iraqi forces safely and on time.”
Now four months into his six-month tour of duty, the Nudgee veteran said his Iraq time has been professionally rewarding. “It’s been another good chance to put my training and experience into practice, and it’s been a good chance to help the Iraqis — our Australian input into the Iraqi Security Force’s development is helping them to look after themselves better.
“Their sense of humour is similar to ours — and they want similar things as we do, such as a safe and secure environment in which they can make a living and give their kids a good education.”
Being away from home for so long has had its challenges, but Scott said the time has mostly passed quickly thanks to the support of his family. “The Americans provided excellent phone and Internet connections, and my weekly web-call was a real morale boost.”