6 October 2020
Chief of Army’s "Army in Motion" concept has helped personnel continue the mission on Operation Paladin, the ADF’s contribution to the United Nations Truce Supervision Organisation (UNSTO).
Captain Lachlan Joseph is entering the last few months of a year-long deployment on Operation Paladin.
He said he experienced the demonstration of the concept through UNTSO’s rallying and subsequent handling of the COVID-19 crisis on deployment.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has generated an extremely dynamic problem for members deployed in Israel, Syria and Lebanon,” Captain Joseph said.
“The challenges faced underscore the importance of our Army-in-Motion philosophy.
“Army in Motion makes it clear that Army never operates alone. We succeed when we collaborate and partner with others.”
The pandemic’s sudden rise tested all of UNSTO’s multinational force members, with observer groups having to respond rapidly.
Through diversity of thought, cultures and experiences the force adjusted its operations to comply with the host nation’s COVID-19 restrictions and applied additional controls to mitigate the risk of exposure to the virus.
Captain Joseph said it was because of partnerships that UNSTO was future ready.
“We were prepared for uncertainty and we have demonstrated the power of a cooperative, combined, diverse group that is mission-focused,” Captain Joseph said.
“The bond forged between the members of the multinational force cannot be understated.
“The common experiences, knowledge and support offered, whether in isolation together or in quarantine or a far observation post, will never be forgotten.
“It’s these types of relationships that underpin the fabric of an Army in Motion.”
UNTSO military observers in the Middle East monitor ceasefires, supervise armistice agreements, prevent isolated incidents from escalating and assist other United Nations peacekeeping operations in the region.
