Posted on 11/25/2004 8:25:10 PM PST by Aussie Dasher
A former schoolteacher has been appointed to command the 920 Australian troops in and around Iraq.
Air Commodore Greg Evans will replace Brigadier Peter Hutchinson, who has commanded the Australian contingent since May this year.
Commodore Evans, who gave teaching away to join the RAAF as a pilot 22 years ago, will be based in Baghdad as commander of the Australian forces in the Middle East area of operations.
Defence Minister Robert Hill said Air Commodore Evans would lead the Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel on active service in the Middle East to support stabilisation and reconstruction efforts in Iraq.
"Air Commodore Evans assumes command at a critical stage of the rebuilding of Iraq, particularly as it prepares for the first democratically held elections in decades, an event that will stand as a pivotal moment in Iraq's history," Senator Hill said in a statement.
Senator Hill praised Brigadier Hutchinson for his leadership over the past six months, saying he had done an outstanding job.
"This Christmas, I would encourage all Australians to spare a thought for the men and women of the ADF serving on operations," Senator Hill said.
"These personnel are unable to be with loved ones, and instead will be working hard in often trying conditions for the ultimate benefit of all of us."
God bless the Aussies!
I'm curious to find out what type of plane this guy flew in the RAAF. Anyone know?
F-111 C & G
RF-111
F/A-18C
P-3C
His deputy will be the top secret Lieutenant Commander "Godzilla".
His deputy will be the top secret Lieutenant Commander "Godzilla".
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