Christmas in Afghanistan for Barry
AS many Tweed families gather to spend the Christmas season together, other families are sending their love across the seas.
Some Tweed families will unwrap their presents on Christmas Day without family members who are serving their country in the armed services.
Murwillumbah resident Warrant Officer Class Two (WO2) Barry Tully is one man who will wish his family a Merry Christmas from Afghanistan.
Officer Tully joined the army in 1981 for a little adventure and is now training the Afghanistan National Army after being deployed to East Timor twice to mentor the Timorese Defence Force.
“Here in Afghanistan the role is very similar; we are trying to mentor their national security forces to be able to deal with any issues that may arise,” Officer Tully said.
“I have called my mum in Tygalgah to let her know I got up here and I’m doing well,” he said.
Officer Tully said he keeps in touch with loved ones, including his wife Mandy and daughters, with either a phone call or an email.
But the family man will be celebrating the festive season with his comrades.
“This year it will be a big cook-up with other guys and we’ll introduce our Afghan mates to some of our Christmas traditions,” he explained.
