WALL OF HONOUR - Timor- Leste
Rod Hutchings
Program Delivery | Cloud Advisory & Consulting | LAB3 | RAAF Veteran | Ex-IBM, Kyndryl & Telstra
Remembering Those Who Made the Ultimate Sacrifice
A quarter-century has passed since Australia answered the call to aid Timor-Leste's struggle for independence. From 1999 to 2013, over 18,000 Australians - soldiers, police officers, and civilians - served in this young nation, helping to build peace and stability.
This year, as we commemorate 25 years of Australian service in Timor-Leste, we pay special tribute to the six brave individuals who lost their lives during or as a result of their service. Their names are etched on a wall of honour, forever reminding us of the ultimate sacrifice they made.
A Turbulent History
Timor-Leste's path to independence was fraught with violence and instability. Following centuries of Portuguese colonial rule, Indonesia invaded in 1975, leading to a brutal 24-year occupation. In 1999, a UN-sponsored referendum saw the Timorese people overwhelmingly vote for independence. The Indonesian military and pro-integration militias responded with a wave of violence and destruction.
Australia led the International Force for East Timor (INTERFET), intervening to restore peace and security. This marked the beginning of a long-term commitment to Timor-Leste, with Australian personnel contributing to peacekeeping, nation-building, and development efforts.
Australian Military Operations in Timor-Leste
From 1999 to 2013, Australia’s commitment to peace and stability in Timor-Leste was unwavering. The Australian Defence Force (ADF) played a crucial role in leading and participating in several key operations, including INTERFET, the United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor (UNTAET), and the International Stabilisation Force (ISF). Alongside the ADF, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) contributed to building the capabilities of the Policia Nacional de Timor-Leste, enhancing the country’s law enforcement and policing infrastructure.
Australia’s commitment to Timor-Leste’s journey toward independence and stability was demonstrated through a series of military operations, each with its unique challenges and objectives.
The Fallen Heroes
The success of these missions was not without tragic loss. The road to peace and stability in Timor-Leste was fraught with danger, and six Australians lost their lives while serving in these challenging and often perilous environments. Their names are inscribed on the Roll of Honour at the Australian War Memorial, and Australian Peacekeeper and Peacemaker Veteran's Association Wall of Honour, a permanent tribute to their service and sacrifice.
Six Australians made the ultimate sacrifice during this period:
Roll of Honour Link: https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/R3125604
Roll of Honour Link: https://www.awm.gov.au/collection/R1729510
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These six individuals represent the courage, dedication, and selflessness of all Australians who served in Timor-Leste.They put their lives on the line to help a nation in need, and their sacrifice will never be forgotten.
A Lasting Legacy
The 25th anniversary commemorations offer an opportunity to reflect on the legacy of Australian service in Timor-Leste.While we mourn the fallen, we also celebrate the achievements of those who served. Their efforts helped Timor-Leste achieve independence, rebuild its infrastructure, and establish democratic institutions.
The bonds forged between Australia and Timor-Leste during this period remain strong. We continue to support Timor-Leste's development and security, and we stand together as partners in the Indo-Pacific region.
As we honour the fallen, let us also express our gratitude to all those who served in Timor-Leste. Their contributions have made a lasting difference to the lives of the Timorese people, and they have helped to shape a more peaceful and prosperous future for the region.
Key Events
As we gather to commemorate these 25 years, a series of events will be held to honour the service and sacrifice of all who were involved. Key events include:
To attend these events, please register details follows below:
National Peacekeepers' Day - 14 September 2024
Each year on 14 September, we observe National Peacekeepers' Day, marking the anniversary of the day in 1947 when Australia became the world's first nation to deploy peacekeepers in the field, during the conflict in the Netherlands East Indies (now Indonesia). Since then, tens of thousands of Australians have served in peacekeeping roles across the globe, with 16 losing their lives in the line of duty. National Peacekeepers' Day is a time to honor and remember their service and sacrifice, as well as the contributions of all Australian peacekeepers—past, present, and future.
This year’s observance, which coincides with the 25th anniversary of Australian service in Timor-Leste, will be held at the Australian Peacekeeping Memorial on Anzac Parade in Canberra. The event will take place on Saturday, 14 September 2024, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm.
To attend this important commemoration, please register your intent to participate at the following link: https://peacekeepers.asn.au/event/australian-peacekeeper-day-saturday-14-septmeber-2024
Seminar: The Pathway to Peace and Solidarity - Australian Service in Peace Operations
As part of the 25th anniversary of Australian service in Timor-Leste, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) is hosting a special seminar titled "The Pathway to Peace and Solidarity: Australian Service in Peace Operations". This event will take place on Tuesday, 17 September 2024, at the Adams Auditorium, Australian Defence Force Academy in Canberra. Doors open at 10:00 am, with the seminar commencing at 10:15 am. This seminar will explore the crucial role Australia has played in peacekeeping missions worldwide, including the efforts in Timor-Leste, and the enduring impact of these operations on global peace and security.
To attend this insightful event, please ensure you register your intent to participate. Your registration will help the DVA in planning and ensuring adequate arrangements for all attendees.
Commemorative Service for the 25th Anniversary of Australian Service in Timor-Leste
On Friday, 20 September 2024, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) will host a National Commemorative Service to mark the 25th anniversary of Australian service in Timor-Leste. This solemn event will take place at the Australian Peacekeeping Memorial on Anzac Parade in Canberra, beginning with a pre-service program at 9:30 am, followed by the official service at 10:00 am. The service will be broadcast nationally, providing an opportunity for all Australians to honor and remember the sacrifices made by the men and women who served in Timor-Leste.
As we reflect on the critical role played by Australian Defence Force personnel, the Australian Federal Police, and civilians in restoring peace and stability in Timor-Leste, we also pay tribute to the six Australians who lost their lives during or as a result of their service. Their legacy is a testament to the courage and dedication required in peacekeeping efforts.
For those planning to attend this significant event, please ensure you register your intent to attend to assist with planning and logistics. While formal tickets are not required, registration helps DVA make appropriate arrangements to accommodate all attendees.
Resources & Further Information
Lest We Forget
Rod Hutchings
Executive Committee
We will always remember the service and sacrifices made by our brave peacekeepers and peacemakers in Timor-Leste.?Their dedication to helping others achieve peace and stability is an inspiration to us all. Lest we forget.