Serving with the NATO forces in Bosnia

Sunday, February 18, 2024, 10:30 – 11:30am The Australian Defence Force (ADF) has a long and proud history of contributing to peace support missions around the world since the end of World War Two, including in Bosnia.Join us at Anzac Square Memorial Galleries on Sunday 18 February for a free talk by Major James Francis who will share his experiences as an Australian Army Officer serving with the NATO forces in Bosnia, following the Former Yugoslavia civil war.The collapse of Yugoslavia in mid-1991 saw the nation descend into destruction and violence, which was only halted with external invention from the United Nation and NATO. It is estimated that 150 ADF personnel were involved in this conflict and subsequent peacekeeping deployments.NATO forces were responsible for implementing the Dayton Peace Agreement through peacekeeping deployments over a nine-year period from December 1995 and December 2004. Major Francis was one of only a few Australian officers seconded to the British Army to monitor the Drayton Peace Accords. His experiences amplify the utility of armed forces in dealing with the refuse of war and understanding the post-civil war power balance.In this talk Major Francis will explore the history of the conflict, the deployment of Australian troops, the challenges of serving in Bosnia during the bitter winter months and living and commanding Gurkha soldiers.After the talk, visitors can stay to explore the Memorial Galleries - embarking on an interactive journey from the First World War to today, before taking time to reflect on the remarkable stories of bravery and sacrifice in the tranquil parklands.Anzac Square Memorial Galleries is located at 285 Ann Street, Brisbane. Entry is through the double brass doors located beneath the Shrine of Remembrance. Venue: Anzac Square, Brisbane City Venue address: Anzac Square, 228 Adelaide Street, Brisbane City Event type: Culture, Free Cost: Free Age: Suitable for all ages Bookings: Bookings required via the Anzac Square website.  Bookings required: Yes