17 December 2021
Here at the end of another challenging year, I thank you all for what you have achieved and the difference you have made – for Army and for many others.
You have done this while managing competing pressures with work and family, and restricted travel impacting access to extended family.
Across Army you have continued to train, innovate, introduce new capabilities into service, and build readiness.
Thousands of you continued support to our communities through the COVID-19 pandemic, working closely with state agencies and emergency services.
Others helped with the evacuation from Kabul, where your compassion and courage helped others in a rapidly deteriorating and uncertain situation.
Similarly the recent commitment to support the Solomon Islands is a clear example of the responsiveness needed to help our friends in need.
Your positive impact at home and abroad is exactly what I mean when I talk about living Good Soldiering.
Doing the right thing, living our values and showing what good teams do.
It’s impressive.
I especially acknowledge families, whose love and support sustains us. To them, and all who support us, a sincere thank you.
Please use your leave well and come back refreshed in 2022.
My best wishes to you all - It is an honour to serve with you.
Good Soldiering.