Cam's Cause

For gallantry in action during close quarters combat in [Uruzgan province] Afghanistan on Operation SLIPPER.

 

Lance Corporal Cameron Stewart Baird was part of a commando company mission assigned for clearance and search of a Taliban stronghold [over the period 22–23] November 2007. During the initial phase of the clearance, Lance Corporal Baird’s platoon came under heavy fire and during the ensuing close-range fire-fight, a member of his team was mortally wounded. Displaying complete disregard for his own safety, Lance Corporal Baird led other members of his team forward under heavy fire from machine guns and assault rifles to recover the wounded team member back to a position of cover.

 

He then re-entered the compound and continued to engage the enemy. Even though under constant fire, Lance Corporal Baird continually moved amongst his team members coordinating their fire, and throwing grenades to neutralise the enemy machine gun positions. Once the close quarter battle had been won, Lance Corporal Baird again led his team forward and began room-to room clearance, where he was again engaged by several enemy. Lance Corporal Baird continued to lead the fight, killing several enemy and successfully completing the clearance.

 

Throughout the action, Lance Corporal Baird displayed  conspicuous gallantry, composure and superior leadership under fire. He was personally responsible for killing several enemy combatants during the clearance, ensuring the momentum of the assault was maintained, and undoubtedly preventing further members of his section from becoming casualties.

 

His performance and his actions were of the highest order and were in the finest traditions of the Australian Army and the

Australian Defence Force.