Prime Minister Makes Unannounced Visit to Troops in Iraq (Howard)

Prime Minister Makes Unannounced Visit to Troops in Iraq

By Mike Corder Associated Press Writer
Published: Apr 24, 2004


SYDNEY, Australia (AP) - Amid tight security, Prime Minister John Howard paid a surprise visit Sunday to Australian troops in Iraq.

"The trip to Iraq is in recognition of the great sacrifice and contribution Australian personnel are making there in challenging conditions," Howard's office said in a statement. "They are following in the footsteps of countless other Australians who have served the nation in many parts of the globe."

Howard's visit was for a dawn ceremony at Baghdad International Airport to mark Anzac Day, Australia's main veterans' commemoration.

It was Howard's trip to Iraq since he sent 2,000 troops to take part in last year's invasion and then replaced them with 850 military personnel to help in reconstruction.

more
http://ap.tbo.com/ap/breaking/MGAS9L0LGTD.html

:eyes:

Like Bush - never served himself, but loves to surround himself
with the paraphenalia of war. Talks a lot about Aussie mateship,
but in a pub with a bunch of blokes he'd stand out like a shag
on a rock.

:eyes:

Next up? Too late for Aznar.

:evilgrin: