2010 Christmas Message from Chief of the Defence Force ACM Angus Houston
20 December 2010
As another year is coming to a close, I wish to express my gratitude to all of you for the contribution you have made to the ADF in 2010.
I am very proud to lead the ADF and I am always impressed by your professionalism and commitment to getting the job done.
2010 has been another year of high tempo operations during which thousands of you deployed to 12 operations overseas.
In Afghanistan, we continued to mentor and train the ANA 4th Brigade, contribute to capacity building in Uruzgan, blunt the insurgency and take back areas traditionally held by the Taliban. In Timor- Leste and Solomon Islands we have progressively drawn down our troop contribution due to the continuing stable security situations in both countries. Our smaller contributions to various United Nations Missions have progressed well, as has our part in whole of government efforts to protect our borders and offshore maritime interests. During 2010, we also contributed to two humanitarian operations in Haiti, following an earthquake, and Pakistan, following severe floods.
You can take great pride in your efforts and the many successes we have achieved both here in Australia and overseas this year. Thank you for your hard work and dedication.
I also want to thank your families for the love and support they have given you and the sacrifices that they have made during the year. I deeply appreciate it as I know you do.
Finally, more than 3700 of you will be separated from your families over the Christmas period. My thoughts will be with you and your families during the festive season. I know how hard it is to be away from your loved ones and we look forward to your safe return once the job is done.
Many of you will also be packing up the house and moving to a new location. This too can be challenging, but I encourage you to embrace the opportunities this brings.
My wife Liz and I wish you a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. May 2011 bring you good health, happiness and success.
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