Padre's Cross : Operation Anode, Solomon Islands

Wooden cross with the front painted white, and the back left unpainted. 'PADRE' is written across the arms of the cross in large red and white mottled letters outlined in black. Written on the top of the cross in black ink is 'OP ANODE TOUR OF DUTY 2003 - 2004'. Listed on the cross in black ink are the names of the army chaplains, Sallyman Salvation Army and Everyman Welfare Service personnel.

This cross was located outside the padre's tent at the Air Point of Departure (APOD) at Honiara Airport in the Solomon Islands. The tent was always open for spiritual guidance. As well as military chaplains, the tent was manned by representatives from the Salvation Army and Everyman Welfare Service.

Operation Anode is the name of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) contribution to the Australian-led Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI). RAMSI's assistance is known as Operation Helpem Fren (Pidgin English for 'Helping Friend'). RAMSI is a partnership between the Solomon Islands and contributing countries of the Pacific region. It is a long-term exercise to help restore stability and peace to the Solomons, and to encourage the development of their economy.

RAMSI was initially deployed on 24 July 2003, with a mandate approved by the Solomon Islands National Parliament, to help the Solomon Islands Government restore law and order, strengthen government institutions, reduce corruption and revive the economy. Fifteen countries contribute personnel to the mission, which includes police officers, military personnel and civilians.