Army awarded Theatre Honour East Timor
The Australian Army has been presented with the Theatre Honour East Timor 1999-2003 during a parade in Canberra, as part of its 119th birthday celebration.
CAPTION: The Australian Army Banner on parade at Russell Offices in Canberra to celebrate the Australian Army’s 119th birthday. ADF photo.
Presented by Governor-General, General (Retd) David Hurley, the Theatre Honour recognises the performance of Army’s personnel and units during warlike service in Timor-Leste.
Minister for Defence Linda Reynolds said the Theatre Honour formally recognised a proud chapter in Army’s long history of service to the nation and support to Australia’s neighbours.
“The presentation of the Theatre Honour on Army’s 119th birthday is an opportunity to reflect on Army’s rich history, and the achievements of the men and women who have served and continue to serve our nation,” Minister Reynolds said.
“We should all be immensely proud of the key role the Australian Defence Force played in the early days of an extraordinary young nation in Timor-Leste.”
Chief of Army Lieutenant General Rick Burr said the presentation of the Theatre Honour East Timor 1999-2003 on Army’s birthday was an opportunity to reflect on Army’s proud 119 year history and to remember those who have served, and continue to serve.
“This is a special day, this 119th birthday, as we celebrate the great story of our Army,” Lieutenant General Burr said.
“Today I pass on my sincere thanks to everyone who has worn our uniform, who has served and who has sacrificed.
“I thank those who support us, to do what we do.”
The Governor-General attached a streamer bearing the Theatre Honour East Timor 1999-2003 to the Army Banner during the parade.
The honour will be embroidered onto the Army Banner and the Colours and Guidons of units that served in Timor-Leste during the period.
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Is this like a Meritorious Unit Citation?
Do the servicemen/women receive an insignia or any visible insignia to wear?
No. And no. What’s been talked about above is like a ‘Battle Honour’, emblazoned on the Colours only.
Why did it take 20 years? Is the bureaucratic red tape that bad that it takes 20 years for campaign or battle honours to be awarded.