THIS Saturday, Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel, the Australian Federal Police, and representatives from other agencies will march in every state and territory capital city – and Townsville – to mark the completion of Operation Slipper.

WA Senator Linda Reynolds said this national commemoration would recognise the achievements and sacrifices of more than 34,500 Australian personnel who deployed as part of Operation Slipper.

“The national commemoration recognises the contribution of our service men and women in Australia’s longest military operation,” Senator Reynolds said.

“Australia tragically lost 41 soldiers during Operation Slipper and the commemoration is a time to remember the families of those who lost loved ones.”

Senator Reynolds also thanked the families and friends of those personnel deployed to Operation Slipper, whose ongoing commitment and support to your loved ones was vital in their success.

Operation Slipper encompassed Australia’s contribution to the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) mission in Afghanistan, and the International Coalition against Terrorism mission across Afghanistan and the Middle East which commenced in October 2001 and concluded in December 2014.

January 1, 2015 marked the start of Operation Highroad, Australia’s new train, advise and assist mission.

Information regarding the time and location of each event can be found at the following website: defence.gov.au/ceremonial/opslipper.asp. 

—ENDS—

Media Contact: Jessica Hayes 0427333147

Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999