ISF TROOPS RECEIVE EAST TIMOR MEDAL

SCOOP - Defence Media Centre

May 20, 2011 - Troops of the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) serving in East Timor have been honoured with the Timor-Leste Solidarity Medal, awarded by His Excellency, President Dr Jose Ramos Horta.

The special ceremony was held at the Presidential Palace in Dili on 18 May 2011, with Australian and New Zealand troops accepting the coveted medal.

Commander of the ISF, Colonel Michael Reilly, who was presented with the country’s Medal of Merit for his leadership, said it was a special day for the troops.

“All of them were proud to accept and wear the medal,” Colonel Reilly said.

Approximately 260 Australian troops are about to return home after their eight-month deployment in East Timor. They will be replaced by a similar number of personnel.

Also returning home are 70 New Zealand troops, following a changeover with incoming soldiers earlier this week.

At the invitation of the Government of East Timor, the ISF is supporting the East Timor security forces to maintain a stable and secure environment in the country.

The Timor-Leste Solidarity Medal (Medalha Solidariedade de Timor-Leste) was introduced by President Ramos-Horta in recognition of forces’ contribution to peace and stability operations in East Timor.

Following the ceremony at the Presidential Palace, the Australian soldiers, made up of regular and reserve Defence members, were also presented with the Australian Service Medal (ASM) by the Ambassador for Australia in East Timor, His Excellency Mr. Miles Armitage.

The ISF’s New Zealand soldiers will receive their New Zealand General Service Medal (East Timor) when they finish their deployment.

“All those returning home can do so in the knowledge that they have served their country with pride and professionalism and I am very proud of them all,” Colonel Reilly said.

ENDS