After a successful eight-month deployment in Timor Leste, some 160 members of ANZAC Company, Timor Leste Task Group 4, were today welcomed home by family and friends at RAAF Base Williams, Victoria.

The soldiers, mainly Reservists drawn from the Army’s 4th Brigade of the 2nd Division, served as part of Operation ASTUTE, Australia’s contribution to the maintenance of peace and stability in Timor Leste.

Representing Prime Minister Julia Gillard, Parliamentary Secretary for Defence, Senator David Feeney, said the parade was an opportunity to recognise and congratulate the soldiers on their successful deployment.

“Today is a demonstration of the dedication and commitment shown by our troops. Your work has significantly contributed to the lives and security of the Timor Leste people and the security of our region. You should be immensely proud of your efforts over the past eight months.

“I am extremely proud of the commitment and dedication to duty that the men and women of ANZAC Company have shown during this long deployment.

“We should also take this opportunity to recognise the employers of Reservist soldiers. Without their continuing support throughout training and deployment, our soldiers would not have been able to make the valuable contribution that they have,” Senator Feeney said.

Officer Commanding ANZAC Company, Timor Leste Task Group 4, Major John Spencer, praised the group for their efforts over the eight months.

“All Company members should take great pride in what they have achieved. Their exemplary performance has been in the finest ANZAC tradition,” Major Spencer said.

Commander 2nd Division Major General Steve Smith, AM, CSC, RFD, and Senior Australian Defence Force Officer RAAF Williams and Commander Air Force Training Group Air Commodore John Hewitson also attended the parade.

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