| Place | Asia: Afghanistan, Uruzgan Province, Tarin Kot |
|---|---|
| Accession Number | REL48377 |
| Collection type | Heraldry |
| Object type | Heraldry |
| Physical description | Stone |
| Location | Main Bld: Outdoor Exhibition Area: Western Precinct |
| Maker |
Unknown |
| Date made | 2000s |
| Conflict |
Afghanistan, 2001-2021 |
Special Operations Task Group Memorial : Camp Russell, Afghanistan
Description
Rectangular four tiered white stone Memorial. Carved into the ceremonially crafted top stone tier are the words ‘LEST WE FORGET’. The inscription is painted black for contrast.
History / Summary
Australians first deployed to Afghanistan in 2001. From 2005 to 2013, most Australian personnel were stationed at Tarin Kowt in Uruzgan province.
The Australian Special Forces and supporting units were based in Camp Russell. The camp was named after the first Australian to be killed in Afghanistan, Sergeant Andrew Russell of the Special Air Service Regiment.
Although adjacent to other coalition military bases, Camp Russell was a secure and separate enclosure which contained living, medical, and operational facilities. This memorial was the focus for various commemorative ceremonies, such as Anzac Day and Remembrance Day, but was also used during special services held to farewell comrades killed in action.