Our People in VIC
PTE Brendan Barry - NORTH FITZROY SOLDIER PLAYS PART IN TIMOR PEACE
These days Brendan, a former student of Burwood High School , is a Private with the Townsville-based 3 rd Combat Service Support Battalion. However, he is currently providing his transport services to the ANZAC Battle Group as part of the International Stabilisation Force in Timor-Leste.
Brendan, who joined the Army in 2003 is on his first tour of duty to the troubled capital and is enjoying his role.
"As part of the transport section, we travel around Timor and provide stores and supplies to the troops on the ground and at other operating bases.
"We also pick up troops and drop them off in various locations," Brendan said.
Having joined the Army to keep the family military tradition, following in the footsteps of his Great Grandfather, Great Uncle and Father, Brendan is lapping up his Timor experience.
"I am really enjoying my time here. It's great to witness a country beginning to smile again.
"The children are great and seeing them smile every day makes it all worthwhile," Brendan said.
With still two months to go until he returns to Australia , Brendan is looking forward to getting home and seeing his wife Beverley.
Brendan is one of about 1100 Australian Defence Force personnel currently serving in East Timor as part of Operation Astute, the Australian Government response to the Timorese Government 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 in which the country can conduct its first independent presidential and parliamentary elections since independence.