Commendation for Distinguished Service – September 2023

Overview

The gazette C2023G01132, dated 27 September 2023, announces the award of a Commendatory Recognition for Distinguished Service to Mr. (then Sapper) Rohan Paul Conlon for his outstanding performance of duty during his deployment on warlike operations as a Combat Engineer in Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force 2 on Operation SLIPPER on 7 July 2009. This recognition, issued by the Governor-General at the Government House in Canberra, ACT, acknowledges Mr. Conlon's exceptional service and dedication in a high-risk environment. The award aims to honour and celebrate the efforts of members of the Australian Defence Force who demonstrate exceptional bravery, commitment, and skill in their duties, thereby contributing significantly to national security and defence.

Scope and Application

The Gazette C2023G01132, issued by the Governor-General on 27 September 2023, recognises Mr (then Sapper) Rohan Paul Conlon for distinguished service while deployed on warlike operations as a Combat Engineer in Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force 2 on Operation SLIPPER on 7 July 2009. This award falls under the auspices of the Australian Army and is a commendation for distinguished service, acknowledging exceptional performance in a military context. The recognition is specific to Mr Conlon and his actions during the specified operation, highlighting his contribution to the broader objectives of the task force. The geographic and jurisdictional reach of this award is national, reflecting the significance of the actions within the context of Australian military operations. The award itself does not involve any legislative scope or application beyond the acknowledgment of distinguished service and does not extend to subordinate instruments or involve any exclusions, exemptions, or thresholds.

Key Provisions

The primary content of the gazetted document (C2023G01132) pertains to the recognition of distinguished service, specifically by Mr (then Sapper) Rohan Paul Conlon. This recognition is awarded by the Governor-General under Section 1 of the National Medal Act 1969. Mr Conlon is commended for his distinguished performance of duty while deployed on warlike operations as a Combat Engineer in Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force 2 on Operation SLIPPER on 7 July 2009. This award is part of the broader recognition framework that acknowledges exemplary service and bravery within the Australian Defence Force. In terms of obligations and requirements, the Act requires the Governor-General to consider recommendations from military authorities and other relevant stakeholders when making such awards. This ensures that the recognition is both deserved and aligns with the values and standards of the Australian Defence Force. The Act also mandates that the award be gazetted to formally notify the public of the commendation, thereby upholding transparency and the public's right to know about acts of bravery and distinguished service. The gazetted document itself serves as a formal notification to the public and the Defence Force community of Mr Conlon's award. It also functions as a legal record of the commendation. There are no offences, penalties, or consequences for breach specified in this gazetted document, as it is primarily a recognition and notification instrument. The focus is on honouring distinguished service rather than enforcing compliance with specific obligations. Overall, the document exemplifies the formal recognition process and the importance of acknowledging exemplary service in the Australian Defence Force. The award to Mr Conlon highlights the high standards of bravery and dedication within the force, and the gazetted notification serves to inform and inspire both current and former service members as well as the broader public.