Navy talks take time to remember sacrifice
The Last Post Ceremony at the Australian War Memorial has provided a poignant reminder of the close bond between the nations of Australia and France.
Le major général de la Marine (Deputy Chief of Navy) — Vice-amiral d’escadre Denis Béraud, together with Deputy Chief of Navy Rear Admiral Mike Noonan interrupted their official meetings this week to lay a wreath at the Last Post ceremony. The ceremony is held every day of the year at 4.55 pm and is a moving tribute to Australians who have fallen in war.
The opportunity to reflect on the sacrifice of service men and women from both nations came as scheduled Navy to Navy talks were being conducted in Canberra.
Vice-amiral d’escadre Denis Béraud is no stranger to working with Australians. The Admiral was Commanding Officer (2005–2007) of the aircraft carrier, FNS Charles de Gaulle, participating in operational missions in the Indian Ocean, in support of coalition forces engaged in Afghanistan in the framework of International Security Assistance Force. The onboard air group performed more than 2,000 hours of operational flights.
Rear Admiral Noonan said the Royal Australian Navy consistently participates in training and operations with the French Navy, from HMAS Success operating with FNS Charles de Gaulle in 2015 in the Middle East to participation in regional security exercises such as Croix du Sud.
“The opportunity for French and Australian warships to train together presents a valuable opportunity for the region, improving security and further enhancing our level of interoperability and maritime awareness in our region.”
“This Navy to Navy engagement is part of our Navy’s routine regional activities in both North and South East Asia and supports regional security.”
