A national welcome-home march has taken place at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra to mark the end of Australia's military operations in Iraq.A total of 17,000 defence personnel were sent to Iraq after the 2003 US-led invasion to help the post-war reconstruction of the country. The final contingent of Australians came home in July this year, with just a few remaining in Iraq to provide security and logistics support.
To a rousing rendition of Waltzing Matilda, more than 300 returned service personnel marched today to officially mark the end of Operation Catalyst.
Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and Defence Force Chief Angus Houston paid tribute to the men and women who served, praising their professionalism, courage and sacrifice. They also paid tribute to the three men who lost their lives while serving in Iraq and the 27 who were wounded.
Air Chief Marshal Houston urged all Australians to pause and consider the service of their fellow countrymen.
"In our name and under our flag they risked their lives to provide others with a brighter future," he said. "As your chief, I am immensely proud of you and thankful for your skill and commitment. You have been wonderful ambassadors for our nation. As indeed are the men and women still deployed in Iraq with the United Nations and those who are providing security for the Australian Embassy."
Air Chief Marshal Houston said the operation was a dangerous mission that came with a human cost.
"Very sadly, three Australians never came home from their military service in Iraq. Today I honour the service of Warrant Officer Class Two David Nary from the Special Air Service Regiment and Private Jacob Kovco of the 3rd Battalion of the Royal Australian Regiment.
"I also wish to mention Flight Lieutenant Paul Pardoel, a graduate of the Australian Defence Force Academy, who was killed in Iraq whilst serving with the Royal Air Force.
"We should also remember the 27 men and women who were wounded during this operation. Some made full recoveries. Others will never fully recover."