French fun run pennant : 33 Squadron, RAAF

Place Asia: Kyrgyzstan
Accession Number REL30524
Collection type Heraldry
Object type Heraldry
Physical description Cotton; Polyester; Synthetic
Maker Unknown
Date made c May 2002
Conflict Afghanistan, 2001-2021
Description

Cotton pennant with a pointed bottom edge and a gold cord at the top for hanging. The front of the pennant is screen printed with a blue border and the heading 'FRANCE'. At the bottom in red are the words 'DETAIR SPORT' and in the centre is a circular design. This design has around the edge 'OPERATION HERACLES' and 'KIRGIZSTAN' separated by the French and Kyrgyzstani flags. In the centre is a map highlighting Kyrgyzstan and surrounding countries with two aircraft and two Air Force emblems. The pennant has been signed by the four Australians who participated in the fun run.

History / Summary

This pennant was produced by the French forces at Ganci Air Base in Kyrgyzstan to mark the 7 kilometre fun run held at the base on 11 May 2002. The run was organised by the French to celebrate the opening of the Munitions Storage Area road which had been rebuilt by the French 35th Engineering Corps. Four members of 33 Squadron represented the Royal Australian Air F0rce in the run, Flight Lieutenant Anthony Ried, Sergeant Geoffrey Cox, Sergeant Craig Hardwicke and Corporal Chris Lockwood. Out of more than 225 coalition members who participated, Cpl Lockwood finished second behind a French officer. A member of the Krygystan military came third.