Clasps & Rosettes

AREW – Clasp (AFP)

There were 298 people on board Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur when it was shot down on 17 July 2014. All 298 passengers and crew died, including 38 Australians. The largest loss of life to Australians internationally since the 2002 Bali bombings. The AFP deployed over 180 personnel to Ukraine, and other key locations in Europe as part of Operation Arew. AFP officers undertook various duties: search, investigations, intelligence, DVI and forensics support.

The investigation met the highest international standards. It accepted the inherent challenges associated with protracted, multi-jurisdictional investigations. It obtained evidence in separatist-controlled Ukrainian territory. AFP experts worked with a forensic expert group of international specialists. The group ensured a holistic, coordinated and strategic approach to the complex and challenging task.

CAWDOR – Clasp (AFP)

On the morning of Sunday 26 December 2004 a severe earthquake in the ocean off the coast of northern Sumatra occurred, resulting in tsunamis that devastated communities in neighboring countries. The AFP, in conjunction with State and Territory police services, responded and deployed to Thailand as members of Operation CAWDOR to provide assistance with the Disaster Victim Identification process. Members of the AFP who were involved in Operation CAWDOR were
awarded the AFP Operations Medal with clasp CAWDOR. The medal and clasp also went to members
of other Australian police services involved, as well as to selected non-police specialists employed in forensic investigation and analysis.