By Paul Mellick


October, 2007

Having just returned from an 8 month deployment with the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor Leste (UNMIT) as part of a 1,600 strong international peacekeeping force, I have experienced policing like I’ve never known in my 30 years career.  I believe it was the Lord who placed the desire on my heart to serve in this mission, which meant a long absence from family and loved ones and venturing into what could only be described as a dangerous environment.  

Apart from the tropical heat which took some getting used to, my initial experience of East Timor was marked with murders, political and gang related violence, village rivalry and rock throwing incidents that saw damage to many United Nations vehicles.

On a number of occasions, the vehicle I was driving was struck by rocks launched from catapults or slingshots. Although these projectiles struck the vehicle with great force, at no time did they cause damage or injury to occupants.  Clearly God’s hand of protection was over us.

Working closely with police from 40 nations and the Australian and New Zealand Armies (International Stabilisation Force), enabled me to engage in policing activities that were both unique and challenging.  I saw first hand how the military and civilian police can work together to restore order in a troubled nation.  Although our roles were different, our objectives were largely the same. 

Apart from a small rebellious element, I found the Timorese to be a warn, friendly and generous people.  Although this is an impoverished nation, I was amazed by their willingness to share what little they had.  The children particularly were very engaging and would often run towards the UN vehicles as they approached.  That alone meant for some cautious driving.  Speaking about driving in East Timor (in my case in Dili) – well what can I say – an experience I’ll never forget.  Need I say more!

I attended a small Pentecostal church in Dili and found the Pastor and congregation very loving and welcoming. The presence of the Holy Spirit was very real.   On occasions the sermon was interpreted into English just for my benefit. Now that’s accommodating.   The Sunday before I left East Timor the church gave me a farewell luncheon.  It was a special time and one I will always remember.  I know my time with them was God ordained.
 
Another highlight was meeting Prime Minister John Howard when he visited the troops and police in mission.  It was a quick one day stopover and it all happened on his 68th birthday.  I was impressed with that and found him genuinely interested in our wellbeing and very appreciative of the contribution Australian soldiers and police were making to the long term stability of East Timor.   I even managed to get a personal photo with him.

I met a number of Christian whilst in mission, particularly from African Nations and the Philippines.  They were a great source of encouragement and those times of fellowship were rich indeed. I would ask that you continue to uphold the Nation of East Timor in prayer – particularly its leaders, military and police.  With a new government recently elected under a democratic process, I am confident the future of East Timor will be characterised by stability and growth.  With God, all things are possible.

Blessings

Paul Mellick
(International Deployment Group)