DIGGERS WELCOMED HOME FROM IRAQ

The Minister for Defence Science and Personnel, the Hon. Warren Snowdon MP, today thanked those who served in Iraq at a Welcome Home parade in Darwin.

Approximately 400 soldiers and 10 armoured vehicles paraded through the streets of Darwin. The ceremony culminated in a function held on the grounds of Darwin City Council.

The 1^st Brigade, which is located in Darwin, comprised approximately two thirds of the personnel who contributed to this important mission.

“These men and women have done an outstanding job and I am honoured to be here to welcome them home, and thank them for their work helping the Iraqi people,” said Mr Snowdon.

“Today we are recognising the efforts of all Australians who have served with the Al Muthanna Task Group, the Overwatch Battle Group – West and the Australian Army Training Team in Iraq.  These soldiers have all had a significant impact on the stability and future prospects for the region.

“The parade marks the culmination of these operations and confirms this government’s commitment to bring our combat troops home from Iraq,” he said.

Australia’s commitment to southern Iraq included the deployment of an infantry and cavalry battle group for more than three years and a dedicated training team for about four years.

“I thank the Darwin City Council for hosting this event and the people of the Darwin for their continued support of the Defence community in Northern Territory,” Mr Snowdon said.

“I would also like to thank the families of those personnel returning for their ongoing support and understanding.  Families are often the unsung heroes whose support is the foundation on which the Army is built.”

This is the second of three welcome home events, with the next taking place in Townsville on 20 July 2008.

The Al Muthanna Task Group was deployed in May 2005 and transitioned to the Overwatch Battle Group – West in May 2006. The Overwatch Battle Group – West provided operational overwatch within the Al Muthanna province. The Australian Army Training Team – Iraq were deployed in May 2004, where they were initially established in Northern Iraq at Al Kasik.

Media contacts:

Kate Sieper (Warren Snowdon):               02 6277 7620 or 0488 484 689

Defence Media Liaison:                            02 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664