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An expeditionary unit has passed the torch to its peer group after completing its deployment in the Middle East as part of Operation Accordion.
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Expeditionary Airbase Operations Unit rotation seven (EAOU-7) has completed its support mission in the Middle East, handing over responsibilities for Operation Accordion to Expeditionary Airbase Operations Unit rotation eight (EAOU-8).
As part of Operation Accordion, Australian Defence Force personnel are deployed to the Middle East to provide support to operations throughout the region, including Operations Okra, Highroad and Manitou.
Personnel are tasked with providing communications, force support, airbase operations, air mobility, movements support, command and control, and elements of the ADF Investigative Service.
Commanding Officer of EAOU-7, Wing Commander Matt Walsh, noted the success of the six-and-a-half-month deployment with Joint Task Force 633, pointing to the unit's response to the explosion at Beirut's Port on 4 August.
“Without a doubt the team’s focus and expertise allowed us to maintain airbase operations support throughout all the challenges that confronted us during COVID-19,” WGCDR Walsh said.
“The fact we were able to support day-to-day operations at Camp Baird and Camp McNamara VC and respond so quickly to the Beirut disaster [earlier in the year] highlighted how adaptable and responsive the team was in getting the job done.
“I’m proud to have served alongside such an amazing group of people during such unique times.”
The unit handover included a presentation ceremony attended by the Commander of Joint Task Force 633, Major General Susan Coyle, who thanked WGCDR Walsh, Precinct Warrant Officer Korey McGregor, and personnel for their contribution to the mission.
“Despite the formidable challenges thrown up by COVID-19, Matt and his team have been able to maintain seamless operations through hard work and dedication,” MAJGEN Coyle said.
EAOU-8 Commanding Officer Wing Commander Garth Herriot said the unit would build on the work completed by EAOU-7.
“Wing Commander Walsh and his team did an outstanding job. They have left us with a solid foundation to build on as Air Force continues to provide airbase operations for Australia’s mission in the Middle East,” WGCDR Herriot said.
“Rotation eight is a diverse group from across Australia. We are privileged to have been selected for this deployment and we are looking forward to continuing the legacy of those that have come before us as we celebrate the centenary of Air Force next year.”
[Related: ADF wraps up COVID-19 border operation]
