Afghanistan veterans gather to mark service anniversary

Veterans of Australia's military service in Afghanistan gathered on Sunday to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the country's involvement in the conflict. Former soldier Mathew Bell, who served in 2012, recalled the pride and sense of accomplishment his unit achieved during their time in Afghanistan. Bell stated that they made the area safe and secure, where people could live and work, a stark contrast to the oppressive situation under the Taliban government.

More than 35,000 Australian servicemen and women were deployed during the two-decade period spanning from 2001 to 2021, with 47 ADF personnel losing their lives and 263 being wounded. Veterans from various roles and missions contributed to reconstruction efforts, democratic governance, training, humanitarian aid, and more. The gathering took place at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park, Sydney, and the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, among other sites.