HIGH PRAISE FOR AUSTRALIAN FORCES IN SOUTHERN IRAQ

Australian soldiers in Dhi Qar Province have been paid a surprise visit by US Army General David Petraeus, the commander of Multinational Force in Iraq.

General Petraeus flew from his base in Baghdad to Tallil Airbase, to see for himself the work of Australian and US forces in the area.

The Tallil base is home to members of the Brisbane-based Overwatch Battle Group (OBG), who are helping to maintain security in Iraq’s southern provinces.

“Australian forces have helped enormously with the development of Iraqi security forces in Dhi Qar Province and also in Al Muthanna,” General Petraeus said.  “It’s been a privilege to soldier with those who come from Australia and we are very grateful for the contribution that they’ve made here.”  

The General took the opportunity to hand out congratulatory handshakes and medallions to Australian personnel.

Australian Defence spokesman Brigadier Andrew Nikolic said General Petraeus’s praise was very much appreciated by the OBG team. “Australia’s operations in Southern Iraq over the past four years have helped bring stability to the Iraqi people,” he said. 

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