The ship's company of HMAS Stuart has today been recognised, with approximately 150 personnel among the first in the nation to receive the Australian Operational Service Medal (AOSM) - Indo-Pacific, during a ceremony at Henderson Shipyard in Western Australia.
This is the Australian Defence Force's newest medal, acknowledging the role Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel have, and continue, to play in operations throughout our Indo-Pacific region.
The recognition highlights the vital contribution of ADF personnel to Australia's national interest and their ongoing role in supporting peace, stability and security across the Indo-Pacific region.
The AOSM, instituted by the Governor-General in January this year, can be awarded to ADF personnel of all ranks who have completed 30 days of operational service on certain ADF operations.
Approximately 15,000 current and former-serving ADF personnel will be recognised for their contributions and service.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Defence Personnel, the Hon Matt Keogh MP:
"It was a great honour to attend the presentation of the first Australian Operational Service Medals - Indo Pacific to ADF personnel for their dedication in operations in this most vital of regions for Australia's national security.
"This medal recognises the contribution of over 15,000 ADF personnel for their service in the Indo-Pacific region since 2005. Behind each medal is a story of service - years of deployments and moments spent away from home.
"The Australian Government is committed to recognising the service of ADF personnel, and Defence's continued engagement in the pursuit of a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region."
