Defence Recruitment.com

Wednesday, 23 December 2009

HMAS Stuart recently completed its first patrol in the Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO), stopping off in the Gulf of Aden for maintenance, re-supply and respite.

Whilst inbound to the port, Commander of Australia's Forces in the Middle East, Major General Mark Kelly, visited the ship, which recently commenced operations in the MEAO.

Its tasks will include escorting merchant shipping in the maritime corridors of the Gulf of Aden, as well as tracking and reporting on any piracy.

'On behalf of Joint Task Force 633, I welcome you to Operation Slipper and I wish you well in your counter-piracy and maritime security efforts,' Major General Kelly said.

During his visit, Major General Kelly also presented a number of medals and awards and addressed the ship's company.

While in port, Stuart received her first full load of mail since deploying; 978 kilograms were delivered to the ship, with a further 800-plus kilos awaiting delivery, hopefully before Christmas.

The presents and 'care packages' sent from loved ones put a smile on the crews' faces and reminded them that, although far away, they are in the thoughts of families and friends.

Stuart's port visit coincided with that of Spanish and Japanese naval ships.

Whilst alongside, Commander Andrew Masters and a number of the crew were given the opportunity to visit the Japanese warship 'Takanami' as part to the Personnel Exchange Program.

Takanami welcomed their Australian visitors with a guided tour of the Destroyer. Stuart reciprocated, with the Commanding Officer of Takanami and some of his crew gaining an insight into life onboard an Aussie warship.

'The Japanese sailors commented on the comfortable living conditions onboard Stuart, while our sailors were unanimously impressed by the highly polished brasswork on Takanami,' said Commander Masters, 'Even the upperdeck door hinges were gleaming.'

HMAS Stuart continues to enhance security in the MEAO through her commitment to counter-terrorism, counter-terrorism and counter-piracy operations.

Media note: Imagery is available at: http://www.defence.gov.au/opEx/global/opslipper/images/gallery/2009/1223b/index.htm