THE PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY FOR DEFENCE SUPPORT ATTENDS THE NATIONAL RESERVE FORCES DAY PARADE IN SYDNEY

The Parliamentary Secretary for Defence Support, the Hon Dr Mike Kelly AM MP today recognised the contribution of Australian Defence Force Reservists at the National Reserve Forces Day Parade in Sydney.

“Reserve Forces Day honours the service and achievements of Australia’s Reservists, both past and present, and also provides an opportunity to formally thank employers and families for their support of Reserve personnel,” said Dr Kelly.

This year’s parade will include massed brass and pipe military bands, 50 Association Standards and Banners, armored cars and a New South Wales Mounted Police and Light Horse Vice Regal escort bringing Her Excellency Professor Marie Bashir AC CVO Governor of New South Wales to the parade.

“Reservists provide a vital contribution to Defence capability and work alongside Permanent Force members with dedication and integrity,” said Dr Kelly.

“I wish to thank the Reservists for their commitment, and the employers and families of Reservists for their support.  Such support is vital to enable the skills and expertise of Reservists to be utilised by our Defence Force”.

The 2009 Reserve Forces Day celebrations will remember the 70 years since the mobilisation of the Citizen’s Military Forces, Citizen’s Air Force and Royal Australian Naval Reserve. They will commemorate the significant contribution Reservists made to the raising of the 2^nd Australian Imperial Force and the Empire Air Training Scheme, as well as those Australians who volunteered to serve during World War II.

Media contacts:

Elyse Gatt (Dr. Mike Kelly):                                   02 6277 4840 or 0437 502 246

Defence Media Liaison:                                         02 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664