WE REMEMBER GULF WAR HEROES, 30 YEARS ON

AUSTRALIA has a proud military history that spans more than a century. On February 28, we will commemorate 30 years since the official end of one of our more recent conflicts, the First Gulf War.

Following Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait in August 1990, the international community responded quickly, with the United Nation’s Security Council imposing sanctions on Iraq, giving it until January 15, 1991, to withdraw from Kuwait.

When that date passed, the combat phase known as Operation Desert Storm began. It lasted until February 28, 1991, when coalition victory was declared.

Australia deployed more than 1800 Australian Defence Force personnel from the Royal Australian Navy, Australian Army, and the Royal Australian Air Force to the Gulf from August, 1990, to September, 1991.

Our ADF personnel provided escort and logistics support during combat operations and continued working after the ceasefire in February, 1991, as Australians remained in the region to support humanitarian efforts. The war also saw the first RAN women serve in combat-related roles in warlike service as part of the crew on HMAS Westralia.

Our commitment demonstrated that Australia was able to make an effective international contribution to a distant conflict at short notice.

All Australians were fortunate to return home, however the same could not be said for our coalition partners who suffered losses.

As we approach the 30th anniversary, I encourage all Australians to remember those who served and thank them for their service, to reflect on our nation’s efforts, and to learn more about this conflict in our military history. Lest we forget.

Darren Chester, Minister for Veterans’ Affairs and for Defence Personnel