Baseball Cap : 171 Operational Support Squadron, RAAF

Green corduroy baseball cap embroidered with '171 OP SPT SQD' and a rearing horse in armour. Written in black texta are a number of names and 'ANZACS 2003'. The edge of the fabric on the visor has been cut away, revealing the black visor base.

Baseball cap associated with the service of 171 Operational Support Squadron in the Solomon Islands as part of Operation Anode. The 171st Operational Support Squadron is based in Oakey, Qld and flies Bell UH-1H Iroquois helicopters in both the Operational Support and Aerial Fire Support Roles. Operation Anode is the name of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) contribution to the Australian-led Regional Assistance Mission to the Solomon Islands (RAMSI). RAMSI's assistance is known as Operation Helpem Fren (Pidgin English for 'Helping Friend'). RAMSI is a partnership between the Solomon Islands and contributing countries of the Pacific region. It is a long-term exercise to help restore stability and peace to the Solomons, and to encourage the development of their economy. RAMSI was initially deployed on 24 July 2003, with a mandate approved by the Solomon Islands National Parliament, to help the Solomon Islands Government restore law and order, strengthen government institutions, reduce corruption and revive the economy. Fifteen countries contribute personnel to the mission, which includes police officers, military personnel and civilians.