This year around 2300 ADF personnel deployed on operations around the world will celebrate Christmas in the company of their mates but away from their families and friends.
Our ongoing operations span Iraq, Afghanistan, the broader Middle East Region and South Sudan, as well as in our northern waters.
Their presence demonstrates Australia's enduring commitment to domestic and global stability and security.
Chief of Joint Operations Vice Admiral (VADM) David Johnston said the festive season was a time to reflect on those who have deployed on operations and recognise their commitment.
"Christmas is a time when we especially recognise the sacrifices made by the men and women of the ADF, as well as their family and friends who support them," VADM Johnston said.
"I am very proud of the professionalism and contribution made by those personnel who supported operations this year - and continue to - and I thank them for the excellent work, be that at sea, in the skies or on land.
"Although being away from home this time of year can be challenging, I ask our deployed personnel where possible to take time to celebrate Christmas with your ADF colleagues and our Coalition partners."
Media Note:
Pre-recorded Christmas messages from deployed ADF members will be fed to the Press Gallery at Parliament House later today. Regional television networks can obtain footage from their national affiliates.
Vision and audio of the messages can also be downloaded from dropbox at: http://tinyurl.com/zhgmur5
On Boxing Day (Monday, 26 December 2016) broadcast quality video will be fed to the Press Gallery at Parliament House. Regional television networks can obtain footage from their national affiliates.
Stills images will be available at: http://images.defence.gov.au/S20163000
Issued by Ministerial and Executive Coordination and Communication,
Department of Defence,
Canberra, ACT
Phone: 02 6127 1999 Fax: 02 6265 6946
