Tomorrow we commemorate the 30th anniversary of the United States-led coalition declaring victory in ‘Operation Desert Storm’, marking the official end of the First Gulf War, and we honour the sacrifices of those who served to liberate Kuwait.
Minister for Veterans’ Affairs Darren Chester said following Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait in August 1990, the international community responded quickly, with the United Nation’s Security Council imposing sanctions on Iraq, giving them until 15 January 1991 to withdraw from Kuwait.
“Operation Desert Storm, the combat phase of the Gulf War,
began when it became clear that Iraqi forces had no intention of withdrawing and Australia was quick to support this global effort,” Mr Chester said.“Australia’s involvement included providing escort and logistics support during combat operations, and continued long after the ceasefire in February of 1991, as Australians remained in the region to assist with humanitarian efforts.”
More than 1,800 Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel from the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), Australian Army and Royal Australian Air Force deployed to the Gulf from August 1990 to September 1991. The war saw the first RAN women serve in combat-related roles in warlike service as part of the crew on the replenishment ship HMAS Westralia.
“While all our service men and women arrived home safely, our coalition partners did lose members of their armed forces, who we remember today,” Mr Chester said.
During the Gulf War, Australian ships joined the largest fleet convened since 1945. Our commitment demonstrated that Australia was able to make an effective international contribution to a distant conflict at short notice, with this service continuing to shape Australia’s military history.
More information about the Gulf War is available on the Department of Veterans’ Affairs’ Anzac Portal — Australians involved in the Gulf War 1990 to 1991. The Australian War Memorial also has an online hub dedicated to the anniversary — Gulf War 1990–1991.
Statement — Anzac Day spirit to continue in 2021
ANZAC Day is the most sacred day of commemoration on the Australian calendar.
It provides all Australians with the opportunity to remember and reflect on the service and sacrifice of our past and current service personnel as well as honour the more than 102,000 Australians who have given their lives in service of our nation.
On the health advice of Australian authorities due to the ongoing threat of COVID-19, Anzac Day services overseas will not go ahead as normal in 2021. This includes the Australian and New Zealand led Anzac Day services in Turkey and the Australian services in France. The day will still be recognised in these countries however, with locally-based officials holding private commemorations in honour of all those who have served our country in uniform, and those who died in service.
This decision was made in the national interest for the protection of all Australians, at home and abroad, and on the advice of Australian health authorities, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and in consultation with host nations.
Along with our own travel ban, we have taken into consideration a number of factors, primarily concerns about the welfare of Australians and other visitors travelling to Anzac Day services as well as views of host nations regarding visitors and large gatherings as well as the impact on health systems of overseas nations.
Here at home, every year on Anzac Day we pause and say ‘thank you for your service’ to our current and former serving personnel. Despite some limitations on numbers and events to ensure things are done in a COVID-safe way, we can again gather together to commemorate the day this year.
A COVID-safe national service will be held at the Australian War Memorial and broadcast nationally, with all Australians encouraged to tune in and watch on the day.
Around Australia, commemorative activities will be planned, managed and delivered by the RSL, exservice organisations and community groups, in line with public health guidance in each state or territory.
The Australian Defence Force will provide personnel to support as many services as possible around the country again this year.
Last year Australians came together like never before to mark Anzac Day during the onset of the coronavirus pandemic.
And this year, whether it’s attending a local service or standing in your driveway and lighting up the dawn, I encourage all Australians to continue the tradition of honouring our service personnel in a way that is solemn and respectful.
The Department of Veterans’ Affairs has a range of free resources available online for communities and individuals, to help them plan a commemorative service in their local area or at home. Visit the Anzac Portal for more information (anzacportal.dva.gov.au).
Details of the national service will be publicised closer to the date. Enquiries relating to services in your state or territory should be directed to local organisers or the relevant health authority.
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