Last month, on completion of her fifth and final patrol on Operation MANITOU, HMAS Darwin took a moment to recognise the extraordinary efforts of the crew who ensured the success of her deployment.
Commander Joint Task Force 633, Air Vice Marshal Tim Innes was onboard Darwin in the port of Muscat, Sultanate of Oman, to present ADF Commendations to well deserving sailors and officers. Commander Combined Task Force 150, Commodore Guy Robinson, RN, was also onboard for the ceremony.
The event began with an address by both Air Vice Marshal Innes and Commodore Robinson thanking the crew for their efforts.
Each of the people awarded ADF Commendations have made a significant contribution to Darwin and the achievement of her mission in the Middle Eastern Region,” Commander Henry said.
“These commendations let them know their contribution did not go unnoticed and shows the ADF’s appreciation for a consistently high level of professionalism and dedication to duty.
“However, they form only part of a crew that consistently impressed with their ability to put in the hard yards when called upon to do so.”
All members of the Ship’s Company were presented the Australian Operational Service Medal – Greater Middle Eastern Operation, and Operational Service badge for those on their first deployment.
HMAS Darwin recently returned home from Operation MANITOU, Australia’s maritime security contribution to the Middle East Region. The deployment was Darwin’s seventh deployment to the Middle East Region and the 62nd for the RAN since 1990.