Governor-General visits Australian troops in Middle East Region

The Governor-General, His Excellency General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK MC (Retd) as Commander-in-Chief, has visited Australian troops deployed to the Middle East region.

The visit took place in the lead up to the 100th anniversary of the signing of the armistice, which saw the cessation of hostilities on the Western Front.

The Governor-General acknowledged the ongoing service of Australian Defence Force personnel at home and abroad.

“Today we’re in a far off place where hundreds of Australians are doing a very tough job,” he said.

“We are as a nation enormously proud of you, instinctively proud of you.  We don’t hear enough of you, but that’s because you do your jobs so well.”

In Iraq, His Excellency met with newly elected President, His Excellency Dr Barham Salih. He also watched the running of the Melbourne Cup over breakfast with Australian and New Zealand soldiers as part of Task Group Taji. 

Later, the Governor-General enjoyed a barbecue in Kabul, Afghanistan with Australian troops deployed on Operation Highroad, the ADF’s contribution to the NATO Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan.

The Governor-General also met with troops in Headquarters Resolute Support and Camp Qargha, where ADF mentors support the development of the Afghan National Defence and Security Forces through the NATO Resolute Support train, advise and assist mission.

“Through your collective efforts, you are giving this nation a chance, and your stocks are enormously high, not just in Australia but of course with your Afghan hosts.

“All of your effort hinges around the fact that we want to help Iraq and Afghanistan to be able to defend themselves against all threats, and for them to grow as nations.

“Thank you for your service, for demonstrating the professionalism of our defence force and for continuing Australia’s proud military tradition,” the Governor-General said.

Operation Okra is the ADF’s contribution to the US-led global coalition to combat the Daesh terrorist threat in Iraq and Syria. Operation Accordion is the headquarters, support and sustainment mission in the region.

Imagery is available at:

Video:  https://bit.ly/2PIYzbc

Stills:  http://images.defence.gov.au/S20184339