Darwin farewells ADF personnel headed for Afghanistan

Some 300 Australian Defence Force personnel about to deploy to Afghanistan were officially farewelled by family, friends and colleagues at a parade at Robertson Barracks in Darwin today.

Combined Team – Uruzgan, Rotation Five (CTU-5) and the 2nd Cavalry Regiment Task Group (2 CAV Task Group) will work closely with the Government of Afghanistan and the Afghan National Security Forces as they continue to take over responsibility for governance and security.

Commander CTU-5, Colonel Wade Stothart, today thanked families and friends for their ongoing support in the lead up to the deployment.

“Today offers an opportunity for us to recognise the dedication and commitment of our deploying members,” Colonel Stothart said.

“It also provides a chance to say thank you to our friends and families for their continued support, without which we would not be able to complete our mission.”  

Commander 2 CAV Task Group Lieutenant Colonel Michael Bye reinforced the importance of the mission ahead and paid tribute to the Defence personnel who have served in Afghanistan during the past 10 years.

“The 2 CAV Task Group recognises the importance of stability and security in Uruzgan and Afghanistan.

“We owe it to the people of Uruzgan, and to those members of the ADF who have gone before us to continue their work achieving security in the province,” he said.

The parade was reviewed by the Commander of the Australian Army’s 1st Division, Major General Stuart Smith, AM.

Imagery will be available in the Defence Digital Imagery Library on Monday at http://images.defence.gov.au/12133693.

Media contact:

Erika Seymour, Defence Media and Communication – NT, 0411 885 994