RAAF Base East Sale personnel Neil Foate and Philip Beanland deployed to Timor-Leste as part of the International Force East Timor (INTERFET) 20 years ago.
This week they returned with Gippsland MP and Minister for Veterans Darren Chester, as part of the 20th anniversary commemorations attended by Australian and Timorese dignitaries and veterans.
The service of Australian Defence Force personnel in East Timor was headed by Peter Cosgrove and was our most significant commitment of troops since World War II.
Australians made a significant contribution to restoring peace and prosperity to the young nation which is one of our closest northern neighbours.
