The first INTERFET Medals for Australian Defence Force personnel were awarded to members of the first infantry force to enter East Timor during September 1999, at a special presentation parade at Lavarack Barracks in Townsville today.
More than 500 2 RAR members from Head Quarters staff; Alpha, Bravo, Charlie and Delta Infantry Companies; Support Company and Administration Company, received their medals.
The INTERFET Medal was presented in recognition of the BattalionÕs presence and professional efforts during peace keeping operations in East Timor between 19 September 1999 and 14 January 2000.
The Reviewing Officer, BRIG Mark Kelly AM, who also served in East Timor, made a passionate speech and expressed great pride in the work carried out by 2 RAR during the BattalionÕs peace keeping operation.
In particular, he proudly paid tribute to all 2 RAR personnel who carried out their duties in difficult circumstances during the first days of INTERFET. 2 RAR entered East Timor in the presence of TNI troops and armed malitia members.
Battalion members provided food, shelter and medical assistance for refugees amid the mass destruction of Dili and surrounding districts. A shortage of power, water and other essential services in a dangerous environment made peace keeping tasks all the more difficult, thus making the INTERFET Medal one of great personal significance.
2 RAR is preparing to return to East Timor with UNTAET during October this year.
