When travelling overseas, learning a new phrase to order a coffee or just introduce yourself might be at the top of your list.

But there’s a bit more pressure when on a live range, assisting with a joint land strike.

Corporal Jemma Fulton, of 9th Force Support Battalion, experienced that pressure on Exercise Super Garuda Shield in Indonesia, her first exercise as a linguist.

From working in the operations cell to the training area of Garuda in south Sumatra, Corporal Fulton said her role benefited the contingent.

“It’s extremely important that there is no miscommunication, especially in the environment we are training in,” Corporal Fulton said.

“It doesn’t matter if it is in barracks or out in the jungle, knowing Bahasa has really benefited myself and the others on the trip.”

Corporal Fulton and two other linguists helped across the barracks, and during the field and range phase.

Linguists accompany staff on range briefings, tactical planning with the host nation and day-to-day tasks to mitigate any confusion to ensure the exercise runs smoothly.

'Making sure everybody does the same thing correctly; the best way to do that is to understand the language.'

Corporal Fulton, who has been in Army for eight years, said helping the Australians and Indonesian National Armed Forces personnel connect during the recent deployment had been a highlight of her career.

“I’ve always loved to travel. It’s been a big part of my life. Experiencing new cultures and meeting new people has got to be the best part of it,” Corporal Fulton said.

“One of the most fun parts is helping people order food or the occasional coffee. 

“Helping the drivers and communicating with staff, seeing the joy on their face when they hear me speak Bahasa is very rewarding.”

Of course, with every job there’s a serious side. When moving into the live-fire activities, understanding the language and communication becomes more important.

“It’s something you can’t stuff up. Back home, safety is number one – that doesn’t change when we go overseas,” Corporal Fulton said.

“Making sure everybody does the same thing correctly; the best way to do that is to understand the language.”

Corporal Fulton completed the Indonesian long course a few years ago through the Defence Force School of Languages. She said an eagerness to learn was just as important as having any language experience.

With travel to 35 countries under her belt, the soldier, originally from Swan Hill in Victoria, said she had plenty more places to tick off her travel list.