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| General David Hurley - Bio |
Indonesian Defence Minister HE Dr Ir. Purnomo Yusgiantoro has presented Chief of the Defence Force, General David Hurley with one of Indonesia’s highest military honours during a ceremony in Jakarta today.
General Hurley received the Bintang Yudha Dharma Utama (Indonesian Defence Meritorious Service Star) for his contribution in promoting cooperation between the Indonesian Armed Forces and the Australian Armed Forces.
“I am very honoured to accept this award. The defence relationship between Australia and Indonesia has proved its resilience over more than six decades. At its core are the people-to-people links between our two militaries,” General Hurley said.
General Hurley was instrumental in establishing the Indonesian Australia Alumni Association known as IKAHAN with former Indonesian Chief of General Staff Air Marshal Edy Harjoko (Retd).
“I have long advocated the importance of interpersonal relationships in our military-to-military engagement. A strong network of interaction at all levels allows our militaries to become comfortable and confident working together,” General Hurley said.
During the two day visit General Hurley met with Indonesian Defence Minister HE Dr Ir. Purnomo Yusgiantoro and the Commander-in-Chief of the Indonesian National Defence Forces, Admiral Agus Suhartono to discuss the transfer of four C-130H aircraft to Indonesia and an upcoming desktop humanitarian assistance and disaster relief exercise between Indonesia, Australia and the United States.
General Hurley said Indonesia and Australia were currently enjoying the highest levels of bilateral engagement between our defence forces in 15 years.
“It is important that we work together to promote security, stability and prosperity in the region. I hope that we can continue to build on that in the years ahead given our shared security challenges and mutual interests,” General Hurley said.