Our People in TAS
Glenn Hill - ROSETTA SOLDIER PLAYS PART IN TIMOR PEACE
These days Glenn, a former student of Rosetta High School, is a Trooper in the Army with the 5th Aviation Regiment and is normally based in Townsville. But now he is working as ground crew with the International Stabilisation Force in Timor Leste.
Glenn joined the Army in 2002 as a Reservist, then transferred to the Regular Army in 2005. This is his second tour of duty to Timor Leste.
“My role involves keeping the helicopters in the air. I mainly work on the Blackhawks. A lot of work has to be done on the ground before the helicopters fly and that’s where I come in.
“My work involves setting up communications, loading information into the aircraft and just generally preparing the aircraft and its passengers.
“What we do on the ground ensures the safety and effective operations of the aircraft,“ Glenn said.
Being able to deploy on operations was an opportunity that Glenn was very pleased to accept. “Of course there are some hardships, like being away from home and family, but in the main I’m enjoying the deployment.
“Working with different nations and peoples has to be highlight. We enjoy working with the Kiwis especially — and beating them at sports like touch!
“Being able to deploy with my mates also makes life that little bit easier over here.
“I would have to say, just like the rest of the guys, that the most memorable moments so far here have been the chances we have had to fly. Seeing Timor Leste from the air makes you realise just how rough and spectacular the country really is,” Glenn said.
When he gets home Glenn is looking forward to some kayaking, fishing, BBQs and spending time with his family. “I am looking forward to time with my wife, Paula, and seeing my children, Daniel and Jai. I miss them all but know that I’ll be home in a few months,” Glenn said.
Glenn is one of about 850 Australian Defence Force personnel currently serving in Timor Leste as part of Operation Astute, the Australian Government response to the Timorese Government request for assistance in restoring peace to their country.
As part of the International Stabilisation Force the Australians are assisting the Government of Timor Leste and the United Nations Police to provide a secure environment for all East Timorese.