Farewell parade for deploying troops
Friends and family of more than 200 ADF personnel about to deploy to the Middle East formally said their goodbyes today during a parade at Robertson Barracks.
CAPTION: Friends and family watch a parade for deploying ADF personnel at Robertson Barracks, Darwin, NT. Photo by Petty Officer Peter Thompson.
The Australian Army, Royal Australian Air Force and Royal Australian Navy personnel will join integrated teams specialising in communications, logistics and force protection.
They will deploy between February and March on either Theatre Communications Group-10 (TCG-X), Force Support Element-12 (FSE-12) or Force Protection Element-13 (FPE-13).
The TCG-X contingent consists of ADF communications specialists responsible for the delivery of national command and welfare communications and information systems to support deployed ADF members.
FSE-12 will provide theatre-wide logistics support to sustain ADF operations in the Middle East region and consists of logistics specialist drawn mainly from Darwin and Adelaide’s 1st Combat Service Support Battalion.
FPE-13 is mounted by the 5th Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment, whose soldiers will provide essential security and protected mobility support for ADF mentors and advisors who are working to support Australia’s contribution to the NATO-led Resolute Support Mission in vicinity of Kabul, Afghanistan.
Commander 1st Brigade Brigadier Ash Collingburn said the parade came after intensive role-specific pre-deployment training.
“Our personnel are always ready. Their training has provided them with the technical skills, resilience and adaptive mindsets required to succeed in their respective roles,” Brigadier Collingburn said.
“The bond between our Defence Force and the Australian people is a source of strength, and today’s parade has assured our people that they head overseas with the trust and support of their loved ones and the broader community.”
Minster for Defence Linda Reynolds said the contingent would continue to build on the legacy of previous rotations.
“These men and women are about to embark on an important mission in support of Australia’s continued commitment to maintaining security and stability in the region,” Minister Reynolds said.
“As Minister for Defence, I am so proud of their efforts on behalf of all Australians.
“I also recognise the sacrifice that their families and friends make in supporting them. Defence would not be able to deploy and perform its duties if it weren’t for the support personnel receive from home.”
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