Australian Defence Force personnel deployed to the Middle East have been on the run, and raising funds for Legacy while they're at it.
Personnel deployed to Bahrain for Operation Manitou and to the United Arab Emirates for Operation Accordion collectively ran the 480 kilometres between their respective bases to support Australian veterans' families.
Runners from the Australian Headquarters Middle East (HQME), located at the Al Minhad Air Base, United Arab Emirates, took to their five-kilometre running track, while Australians at the United States Navy's Naval Support Activity - Bahrain gathered at the base's Memorial Sports Field.
Both teams exceeded their 240-kilometre goals, with the 50 participants running more than 600 kilometres and raising more than $3000 for Legacy.
The most noteworthy contributions came from event organiser, Air Force Security Forces Officer Flying Officer Marat Roche, who ran a herculean personal best of 70 kilometres.
He was followed by Navy Surface Warfare Officer Lieutenant Jack Hawkins, who seemed as comfortable on land as at sea, running a marathon-busting 52 kilometres.
Other contributions ranged from three to almost 40 kilometres, while others offered enthusiastic moral support.
'That same Australian team spirit spans the Arabian Gulf.'
Commander of the Australian Contingent for Operation Manitou, Commander Andrew Clowes, was impressed by the support received from the Bahrain team.
"There's been a great culture created in the Manitou team that encourages everyone to participate in these sorts of activities," Commander Clowes said.
"They're not only challenging and a bit of fun, but they encourage teammates to support each other to achieve goals. That same Australian team spirit spans the Arabian Gulf."
Commander HQME Captain Brett Westcott was equally pleased with the international teamwork on show.
"The opportunity to collaborate with the Manitou team to run the virtual distance between our two locations was a great initiative," Captain Westcott said.
"Whilst the run itself fostered camaraderie, fitness and team spirit, the most satisfying outcome was raising funds for a great charity. Legacy has been looking after the families of servicemen and women for over a century.
"It is always great to be able to support them in their support of veterans' families."
As well as being satisfied with his personal best achievement, Flying Officer Roche was also pleased to be helping Legacy.
"We often forget how difficult it can be for those on the home front to deal with their significant other being away for extended periods," he said.
"They're also greatly impacted by mental and physical injuries suffered by veterans and deserve considerable support, especially in cases where their significant other has given the ultimate sacrifice."
Options for other cooperative athletic efforts are already being considered.
'We often forget how difficult it can be for those on the home front to deal with their significant other being away for extended periods.'
Operation Accordion is the Australian Defence Force support mission for all activities in the Middle East region, enabling contingency planning and enhancement of regional relationships.
Operation Manitou is the Australian Defence Force contribution to support international efforts promoting maritime security, stability and prosperity in the Middle East and East Africa regions.
Founded in 1923, Legacy is an iconic Australian charity dedicated to supporting families of veterans. It supports more than 30,000 families of Australian Defence Force men and women who have lost their life or health, and 1400 children and dependants with a disability.
Legacy assists families through their bereavement, protects basic needs, advocates for entitlements, rights and benefits, and helps loved ones thrive despite adversity and loss.
