Soldiers go beyond call of duty - QUEEN'S BIRTHDAY HONOURS LIST: [1 All-round Country Edition]
Stapleton, John. The Australian [Canberra, A.C.T] 14 June 2004: 6.
Abstract
His citation notes that his troops conducted more than 1700 patrols in extremely dangerous circumstances. "His achievements in this volatile combat environment have significantly contributed to the success of the Australian mission in Iraq."
Captain Marcos Medina was awarded a Distinguished Service Medal for leading a Mobile Collection Team on more than 50 missions throughout Iraq in pursuit of weapons of mass destruction. His citation suggests that his inspirational leadership under direct enemy fire led to the successful completion of all assigned missions "with no loss of life or injury".
ELEVEN soldiers have been recognised in the Queen's Birthday Honours list for their role in the Iraq theatre of war.
Leading the list is a former commander of the Australian contingent, Air Commodore Graham Bentley, who was appointed a Member in the Military Division of the Order of Australia (AM) for "exceptional performance in the conduct of warlike operations".
His award citation says that Air Commodore Bentley's calm manner, strong work ethic and clear focus on the safety and morale of his officers, sailors, soldiers and airmen and women won their respect, loyalty and support.
"He demonstrated selfless dedication, inspirational leadership and astute command skills, and has set the conditions for a successfully continuing contribution by Australia to the Middle East Area of Operations."
The Distinguished Service Cross was awarded to Major Michael Birtles, who commanded the army security attachment in the heart of Baghdad. The army had the job of guarding the Australian diplomatic mission.
His award citation says he showed faultless judgment in a complex combat environment and developed tactics and procedures that became the benchmark for coalition operations in Baghdad.
"He commanded with a calm, professional leadership style that demanded and achieved standards of personal discipline and courage that were the equal of other coalition troops in this combat environment," the citation says.
Lieutenant Justin Back was awarded a Distinguished Service Medal for distinguished leadership as Commander of the Cavalry Troop, including maintaining consistently high morale among his soldiers.
His citation notes that his troops conducted more than 1700 patrols in extremely dangerous circumstances. "His achievements in this volatile combat environment have significantly contributed to the success of the Australian mission in Iraq."
Captain Marcos Medina was awarded a Distinguished Service Medal for leading a Mobile Collection Team on more than 50 missions throughout Iraq in pursuit of weapons of mass destruction. His citation suggests that his inspirational leadership under direct enemy fire led to the successful completion of all assigned missions "with no loss of life or injury".
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