AWM History Project: Timor, Iraq & Afghanistan

24/07/2026

On the night of 9 and 10 July 2006, a coalition force of Afghan, Australian, Canadian, Dutch, and United States soldiers and aircraft, conducted a daring direct-action assault on a compound 15 kilometres north of Uruzgan’s provincial capital, Tarin Kot.

The exceptional bravery displayed that night and in the coming days was recognised with no less than 15 gallantry and distinguished service awards, including a Star of Gallantry and five Medals for Gallantry.

Twenty years later, veterans of Direct Action (DA) Nile have shared their stories publicly for the first time.

On 10 July 2026, the Australian War Memorial, in collaboration with UNSW Canberra and the Commando Welfare Trust (Official Page), hosted a special event commemorating the 20th anniversary of the operation.

▶️ Watch the full event and hear their firsthand accounts: https://brnw.ch/21x4nD2

(Image courtesy of Kevin Humphreys)

21/08/2024

16/08/2023

The Royal Regiment of Australian Artillery's commitment to Operation Herrick is being covered in the current Official History series. The Official History team is thrilled to see the Australian War Memorial's Herrick collection growing!

24/04/2023

in 2006, former soldiers and their supporters began protesting against the government in Dili, Timor-Leste.

24/04/2023

in 2004, HMAS Stuart oversaw a coalition maritime force response to a terrorist attack on two Iraqi oil terminals in the North Arabian Gulf. During the incident a boat from USS Firebolt was destroyed by a su***de bomb, killing three on board. Stuart’s Seahawk immediately rendered assistance.

18/04/2023

in 2003, Australian Army officers deployed to the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) as part of Operation Palate.

17/04/2023

in 1999, Aitarak and BMP militia attacked the residence of CNRT leader, Manuel Carrascalao, in Dili, killing 12.

14/04/2023

in 2002, presidential elections were held in East Timor. Xanana Gusmao won with 82.7% of the vote.

13/04/2023

in 2008, Reconstruction Task Force - Four (RTF-4) began operations in Uruzgan Province, Afghanistan.

13/04/2023

in 2003, a C-130H Hercules landed at Baghdad International Airport carrying medical supplies for Operation Baghdad Assist. It was the first RAAF aircraft to land in Baghdad in more than a decade.