“The roots of the North West Mobile Force, known as NORFORCE, can be traced back to World War II when the 2/1 North Australian Observer Unit, whose personnel were known at the time as the Nackeroos, provided intelligence on enemy movements on land, sea and air.”
NORFORCE, the first Regional Force Surveillance Unit (RFSU), was officially raised on 1 July 1981 to meet the requirements for surveillance and reconnaissance in the north and north-west of Australia.
“The Anniversary is an important milestone allowing us to celebrate NORFORCE’s rich culture and history. NORFORCE provided an invaluable opportunity for Aboriginal Territorians to be engaged in working for Defence of our country,” Mr Snowdon said.
“We are honoured to have six members of the original Nackeroos participate in the anniversary activities, and to recognise all of those past and present who have served with NORFORCE,” he said.
The highlights of the celebrations include the opening of the Nackeroos display at the Darwin Military Museum on 30 June 2011; and a remembrance service and an Anniversary dinner on 25 June 2011.
Mr Snowdon said the 30th Anniversary is an opportunity to honour and recognise the contribution of past members of both the Nackeroos and NORFORCE.
NORFORCE Commanding Officer LTCOL Chris Goldston said the anniversary not only recognises the significant contribution NORFORCE has made in recent history, but also the predecessors, the Nackeroos, who at the height of World War II served the nation through patrolling the northern coastline of Australia against possible invasion.