British Ex-Services Association - Queensland

🇬🇧 BESA Remembers – Operation HERRICK 🇬🇧

Operation HERRICK was the codename for all British military operations in Afghanistan from 20 June 2002 to 12 December 2014.

The operation formed the United Kingdom’s contribution to the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) and the American-led Operation Enduring Freedom. Over more than a decade of service, British personnel operated in some of the most demanding and dangerous conditions faced by our Armed Forces in recent times.

The campaign came at a heavy cost. 457 British servicemen and women lost their lives, while thousands more returned home carrying the physical and psychological scars of war.

Today, BESA remembers those who made the ultimate sacrifice, those who were wounded, and all who served during Operation HERRICK. Their courage, professionalism, and dedication will never be forgotten.

We Will Remember Them.

From maintaining front-line aircraft to keeping Australia’s aviation industry moving, the skills, professionalism and commitment developed during military service don’t disappear when the uniform comes off.

Veterans continue to serve in different ways, bringing experience, leadership and teamwork to their communities every day.

At BESA Queensland, we’re proud to support those who served, helping veterans stay connected through camaraderie, events, welfare support and shared experiences.

🇬🇧 Once Served, Always Connected.

On 9 June 1999, 1 PARA Battle Group, reinforced by 3 PARA, spearheaded NATO’s KFOR entry into Kosovo. Conducting an air-mobile assault into the Kacanik Defile on the Serbian border, British paratroopers secured key terrain before advancing towards Pristina to support peacekeeping operations and the withdrawal of Serb forces.

A defining moment for 5 Airborne Brigade and British airborne forces.

From watchkeeping at sea to strengthening our veteran community ashore.

The uniform may be in the wardrobe, but the values of service, commitment, and camaraderie remain. British veterans continue making a difference every day, supporting mates, families, and their local communities across Queensland.

Once served. Always connected.

The mission changes, but the dedication remains.

Whether on operations or carrying a wreath in remembrance, British veterans continue to lead through service, respect, and community. That’s what BESA is all about.

No matter which badge you wore, the bond of service never fades.

BESA Queensland proudly brings together former members of the British Army, Royal Navy, Royal Air Force and Royal Marines - building friendship, support, and camaraderie for British veterans living in Queensland.

Different ties. Different cap badges. Different stories.

From the Royal Marines to the Royal Air Force, the Royal Navy to the Army, our service may have taken different paths, but the bond forged in uniform remains the same.

At BESA Queensland, British veterans living in Australia come together to share friendship, remembrance, and the camaraderie that never fades.

United by service. Connected for life.

🇬🇧 Operation Palliser — 2000
A bold British intervention in Sierra Leone that helped rescue civilians, stabilise the nation, and turn the tide against brutal rebel forces. Professionalism, courage, and decisive action under pressure.

Members of BESA service in all areas of the UK military