Change of Guard: Force Protection Element 5 Takes Charge in Kabul

Following six months of diligent service in Afghanistan, members of Force Protection Element (FPE) Rotation Four have handed over force protection duties in Afghanistan to FPE Rotation Five in ceremonies across Kabul.

Commander Task Group Afghanistan, Brigadier Michael Annett said the level of professionalism shown by members of FPE 4 had been exemplary.

"Every Australian who has deployed to Afghanistan during your tenure has returned home safely," he said.

"It is a testament to your professionalism, positive attitude and team work."

FPE 4 was made up of approximately 90 Australian Army members from the 8th/9th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment and 7th Combat Services Support Battalion.

Together, they provided the critical transport and force protection to Australian Defence Force mentors performing an Advise and Assist role to the Afghan National Defence and Security Forces in both Kandahar and Kabul.

Members of FPE 4 received the Australian Operational Service Medal (Greater Middle East) and the NATO Non-article Five Afghanistan Campaign Medal.

Approximately 250 Australian Defence Force personnel are deployed across Afghanistan in a variety of roles on Operation Highroad, Australia's contribution to the NATO-led Resolute Support mission.

Resolute Support is focused on training, advising and assisting the Afghan National Defence and Security Forces and Afghan security institutions at the operational, institutional and ministerial levels.