Navy People: Eugowra Man Heads For Persian Gulf Duty

31 March 2008

Eugowra’s Kenneth Katon and his 184 shipmates are getting pretty focused. They are now aboard HMAS Stuart and heading for six months duty in the Persian Gulf. A key job will be guarding Iraq’s giant oil terminals, which bring in over 80% of the country’s income. They will also be hunting down contraband runners.

“After Red bend Catholic College I joined the Navy in April 2004. I’ve now specialised in communications, and got trained in Melbourne, Perth, Sydney, Adelaide — and New Zealand! I’ve also been promoted to Able Seaman.

“The Gulf will be a challenge. Working on communications is my role on board, and communications is very important so it’s something to take pride in. I’ll be getting put in situations most people don’t get to experience.

“But six months is a long time to be away, so catching up with the girlfriend and family will be good, and just to sit back in my new apartment will be good too.”

Kenneth is one of some 1500 members of the Australian Defence Forces who are now on duty in the Middle East as part of Operation Catalyst, the Australian Government’s contribution to the reconstruction and rehabilitation of Iraq. Working with the Iraqi Government and coalition forces, Australian military personnel are continuing to work for a more secure environment and assist with national rehabilitation programs.