Op Falconer interviews

Place Middle East: Iraq
Accession Number F08149
Collection type Film
Measurement 37 min 50 sec
Object type Interview
Physical description DVCPRO-25
Maker Department of Defence
Place made Iraq
Date made 2003
Access Open
Conflict Iraq, 2003-2013
Copyright

Item copyright: Commonwealth of Australia copyright

Description

Operation Falconer interviews: F/A-18 pilot of 75 squadron talks of what its like to be a part of the coalition forces; C130 pilot Wing Commander John Samulski talks of the difference between Australian and other coalition forces, well trained Australian crew, threats from weather conditions and darkness, use of night vision equipment, capabilities, advantages and equipment of the C130 Hercules, its ability to carry a significant payload and its ability to land on dirt strips; F/A-18 pilot of 75 Squadron talks of good success of mission, initial problems with infrared imaging system, what goes through mind during a flying mission, on the danger of being targeted and good training and on not encountering any Iraqi air force; F/A-18 pilot discussing what it is like to be part of this historic mission, his average day, survival gear, mission and intelligence briefings, getting aircraft and weapons systems ready, how training prepared him for Iraq, working with US and UK air forces and high squadron morale; Chinook pilot Lieutenant Colonel Elder of 5 AVN Regt on the role of his detachment, logistic support, troop and freight transport, difference between training and combat environment, stress levels, higher altitude, cold, dust and sand storms, difficulties of night flying in low contrast terrain, operating 24/7 and the danger of fatigue, difference between Townsville and Iraq, humidity verses dry heat and communication with family in Australia; Brigadier Maurie McNairn on the purpose of visit to Baghdad, setting up main UK, US and Australian forward headquarters, how HQ will coordinate Australian activities, explains Operation Falconer (control of Iraq) and Operation Catalyst (rebuilding Iraq); Commodore David McCourt commanding officer HMAS Kanimbla talks on their role enforcing UN sanctions in Iraq, boarding merchant vessels, smuggling of dates and oil, looking for contraband and the rigorous training of his crew.

  • Video of Op Falconer interviews (video)