 | Fleet Air Arm |
| Fleet Air Arm |
17 January 2004
HMAS Melbourne, with its embarked flight, was on Gulf operations in the Middle East this Christmas.
Members of the FAAAA and HMAS Albatross joined at the Museum of Flight on 5 December 2003 to put together a Christmas hamper, which was then sent on its way with the best wishes of Association members by the FAAAA National President, Toz Dadswell [pictured at right].
The following letter has been received from the Flight:
Please accept my sincere thanks on behalf of all members of Seahawk Flight 2, which is currently embarked in HMAS Melbourne for the very thoughtful Christmas hampers.
Being at sea, in an operational area, away from family and friends over the Christmas period and missing out on the 'normal' festivities, can be particularly difficult, however your support to the members of the Flight certainly generated considerable Christmas cheer and displayed a part of the great Australian character.
The continued support that the Fleet Air Arm Association provides our embarked flights at sea is very much appreciated and I look forward to continuing the close relationship that has been forged, well into the future.
You will be pleased to learn that the boys up here are doing a great job under trying conditions and I am sure that all Fleet Air Arm Association members will be as proud of them and their continued achievements as I am.
The hampers were opened by the Flight at 1000 on Christmas morning while on station in the Northern Arabian Gulf.
There were a number of photographs taken, but it might be a short while until we get them developed. A selection of items was presented to the Commanding Officer, Commander Vern Dutschke in his cabin later on Christmas morning and this was also duly photographed.
We have shared some of the prize possessions contained within the hampers with other sections of the ship that help us in our duties and other aircraft that have visited. A little kindness goes a long way.
The Christmas lunch served on the ship was outstanding. A full meal with ALL the trimmings served up by the CO and HODs. Santa even made a surprise appearance during the day.
While I am sure that everyone onboard would have preferred to have been at home with family and friends, everyone had as good a day as they possibly could under the circumstances.
CDF, General Peter Cosgrove, even made an appearance for dinner and remained overnight to help share in the celebrations. It was a great day.
Once again thank you and please convey our heart-felt gratitude to the members of the FAAAA.
Finally, from all members of Flight 2, I would like to pass best wishes to you and all the members of the Fleet Air Arm Association for a safe and happy year in 2004.
Yours sincerely , D. Jose, Lieutenant Commander, RAN Flight Commander.
See also 2003 Christmas Hamper Story.