Operation Iraqi Freedom patch
Date2007
Object number00044932
NamePatch
MediumFabric
DimensionsOverall: 110 x 110 mm, 10.19 g
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Sea Power Centre Australia
DescriptionThis unofficial Iraqi Freedom cloth patch features the flags of twenty-three countries involved in Middle East operations during 2005-2006. Unofficial badges were worn on civilian clothes but not uniforms. Australia's presence in Iraq was part of a group of nations whose mission was to aid in the rehabilitation and reconstruction of Iraq.HistorySince July 2003, Australia has deployed in total more than 5,180 personnel to Iraq in support of Operation IRAQI FREEDOM, with an aim to support the rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts in Southern Iraq and provide force security.
Each contingent that has been deployed has consisted of approximately 760 personnel including: Headquarters Joint Task Force, Force Level Logistics Assets, Embassy Security Detachment, Camp Victory Embedded Staff, International Zone Embedded Staff, Headquarters Multi-National Division - Southeast Embedded Staff and Overwatch Security Forces for Al Muthanna and Dhi Qar Provinces. From January to November 2006, Australian forces were located in the Al Muthanna Province to provide force security for the Japanese reconstruction forces in As Samawah, Iraq. Upon Al Muthanna Province being turned over to Provincial Iraqi Control (PIC) these Australian forces reverted to an overwatch mission. In September 2006 the Italian forces in Dhi Qar Province declared the province ready for PIC and announced the upcoming withdrawal of all Italian military forces from Iraq. In November 2006 the Australian forces relocated to Talil Air Base in An Nasariyah to provide overwatch forces for Dhi Qar Province.
SignificanceThis badge represents the role of the Royal Australian Navy in the invasion and subsequent war in Iraq. This involvement raised debate within the Australian and wider international community. 
