On deployment during Anzac Day
As the ADF is supporting the Western Australian Government after Tropical Cyclone Seroja, many personnel will be spending Anzac Day deployed.
CAPTION: Corporal Zoe Perkins in Geraldton, WA, during Tropical Cylone Seroja recovery. Story by Captain Zoe Griffyn. Photo by Leading Seaman Kieren Whitele.
They have been working closely with the Department of Fire and Emergency Services with recovery efforts, including clean-up of roads and property and movement of personnel.
Logistician from No. 3 Squadron Pilbara Regiment Corporal Zoe Perkins said being deployed on Anzac Day gave her a sense of pride.
“We’re all together and can take a moment to reflect on those who sacrificed so much for us,” Corporal Perkins said.
Originally from Anglesea on the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, Corporal Perkins joined the Army as a gap year after school and enjoyed it so much she stayed.
“What I love the most about the Army is the people I work with,” she said.
“You spend so much time together when away from home in situations like this it creates a great sense of community.”
Also deployed is Sergeant David McCabe from 13 Combat Service Support Battalion in Perth.
CAPTION: Sergeant David McCabe in Geraldton, WA. Photo by Leading Seaman Kieren Whiteley.
As a truck driver, he is driving forklifts and trucks to move stores and stretchers and is helping pick up rubbish.
He said Anzac Day was a time to pause, stop and think about those who had fallen.
“This Anzac Day I’m happy to be serving with my mates. That’s important to me,” he said.
For Private Kieran Pinfold, a Reservist from 13 Combat Service Support Battalion, this deployment was special for him.
“I was on holiday when I got a phone call asking if I could assist with the cyclone recovery,” Private Pinfold said.
“I cut my holiday short and drove up to Perth and then on to Geraldton the next morning.
“I feel immensely proud to be deployed on Anzac Day, wearing the uniform and serving with my mates.”
CAPTION: Private Kieran Pinfold in Geraldton, WA. Photo by Leading Seaman Kieren Whiteley.
.
.
.
.
