Old Allies Remember In Timor-Leste

Media Release

11 November 2010

Old Allies Remember In Timor-Leste

New Zealand and Australian Defence Force personnel joined together in silence in Dili on Remembrance Day 2010, honouring their ancestors and comrades who fought and died for common causes.

Members of the International Stabilisation Force (ISF) in Timor-Leste stood sentry around the Cenotaph while fellow sailors, soldiers, airmen and airwomen listened to words of bravery, devotion and loss as the moment that was supposed to end all wars was recalled.

If solace could be found it was in the continuing brotherhood of comradeship that has seen Australian and New Zealand forces serve together in World War 2, Korea, Malaya, Vietnam, Timor-Leste, the Solomon Islands, Iraq, Afghanistan and in numerous United Nations missions over the years.

The Deputy Commander of ISF, Commander Tony Millar RNZN, said it is ironic that a day that marks the end of something so awful can also be an important step in the establishment of something of great promise - a community of nations.

"It was World War I that provided the catalyst for initially the League of Nations and then the United Nations.

"And it was the United Nations that provided the guarantee of self determination for the people of Timor over the last decade.

"It is because we have paid such a high price in war that Australia and New Zealand have a place to stand - a turanga waewae - now.

"We have an international voice which is disproportional to our military capabilities.

"Those who have fallen have paid the highest price in the defence of their families, their nations and their mates and for that - we thank them and resolve to do our very best to ensure that their sacrifice does not need to be repeated".

ENDS

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