AUSAVN detachment leaves East Timor

[Heliport]

After nearly four years of distinguished service and almost 11,000 flying hours, the Australian Army’s three Kiowa helicopters in East Timor are heading home.

The Australian Army Aviation detachment, or AUSAVN, was farewelled in traditional military style with a ceremonial parade in Suai, where the AUSAVN detachment and the Singaporean Aviation Detachment (SINGAVN) are based.

http://www.defence.gov.au/opcitadel/images/gallery/020703/JPAU30JUN03SB050_th.jpgKiowas land after the last Australian Aviation mission in East Timor.

AUSAVN first deployed to East Timor in September 1999 as part of Australia’s contribution to the International Force for East Timor (INTERFET).

Finally part of the United Nations Mission of Support in East Timor (UNMISET), AUSAVN has been comprised of 1st Aviation Regiment’s 161 and 162 Reconnaissance Squadrons, which are based in Darwin and Townsville respectively

http://www.defence.gov.au/opcitadel/images/gallery/020703/JPAU1JUL03SB023_th.jpg Australian Army Aviation detachment (AUSAVN) during their medal and farewell parade in East Timor on 1 July, 2003.


Any Oz Rotorheads serve there?

[hueywsh]

heliport, I was in Suai from Aug 2002 to Feb 2003 and had a lot to do with AUSAVN and the Singapore Heli Detachment. They were both excellent operators and could never do enough for us.

[mighty_kiowa]

No, but by the look of those dashing blue scarves i should have!:yuk:

[trimpot]

As someone who flew in Timor I know what a mighty job you did there, well done! If you did a tour in Timor and survived a night at the canoe bar you really are a legend!!:E