With Love From An Occupied Zone
Newcastle Herald
Tuesday December 23, 2008
CHRISTMAS is a time to think of loved ones and few are more mindful of family and friends than those serving their country overseas.
RAAF Leading Aircraftsman Ben Lavender will spend Christmas in Iraq as part of Operation Catalyst, a world away from those he loves most in Clarence Town."I can't wait to get catch up with everyone over a few cold beers," he said.Leading Aircraftsman Lavender said he was missing his wife, friends and even the family dog but contact via telephone and email was encouraging."The support from my family is great and helps me remain focused on the job at hand," he said.Leading Aircraftsman Lavender said that while family support was essential, the camaraderie and friendship with fellow service men and women serving in Iraq was also a great help."Everyone in Task Group 633.2 is great and the friendships formed here are for life," he said."It can be difficult being away from friends and family for such a long time but everyone here looks out for each other."It was stories from his grandfather, a sailor in the British Navy, that inspired him to join the defence force in 2001.The air movements operator is two months into his six-month deployment.His role is to co-ordinate the transport of personnel and cargo and movements of all aircraft in the area.
© 2008 Newcastle Herald