Jack Daniel's Racings Todd Kelly took time out leading into this weekends Sucrogen Townsville 400 to visit the troops of the Second Battalion Royal Australian Regiment (2RAR) and B Squadron of the 3rd and 4th Cavalry Regiments at Lavarack Barracks, Townsville.
Todd spent time with the soldiers, learning about their recent experiences in operations in Afghanistan and to see first hand the teamwork and mateship that are essential in such an intense environment. He explained to the troops that teamwork is also very much a key ingredient to being successful on the track.
Todd was delighted to meet the soldiers and said, We got to spend some time with the soldiers who have been doing it pretty hard and hear a few of the stories, as well as giving them an insight into what we are doing on the weekend.
The soldiers were delighted to show off the range of armoury used in conflicts as well as giving Todd a close up look at the Australian-built Bushmaster troop carrying vehicles.
While looking over the machinery, discussions between Todd and the soldiers quickly centered around the workload required to maintain the military equipment in top condition. Todd learnt that at the end of each day, several hours of maintenance was required to keep the equipment combat ready. This lead to further conversation about the level of detailed preparations the Jack Daniel's Commodore goes through to make it ready for each round of the V8 Supercar Championship, and after qualifying the workload required to get the car race ready.
When asked about this weekend Todd said, Its a great event and an awesome racetrack and hopefully we can get both Jack Daniel's Racing Commodores a result this weekend.
The soldiers of 2RAR, (one of three infantry battalions based at Lavarack) returned from Afghanistan early this year after achieving several tactical, operational and strategic objectives in their 8-month deployment. Sadly, they lost two of their comrades, Private Mathew, Matty Lambert and Lance Corporal Luke Gav Gavin who were killed during operations. As a tribute to both soldiers, Todds Jack Daniel's Racing Commodore will carry their names on the rear windscreen.
Its very sad to hear the news that they lost a couple of soldiers over there and everyone feels for them. It will be a fantastic tribute to put the two soldiers names on the car. I will certainly be driving with pride.
The Second Battalion prides itself on its fighting spirit and humility. Its motto is Second to None and the motto of the Royal Australian Regiment is simply Duty First.
