Aruma takes up new role

PAPUA New Guinea Defence Force’s (PNGDF), Col Boniface Aruma has taken up his new job as the deputy commander of the Australian Defence Force third brigade in Townsville – Australia’s largest garrison city.
Aruma’s promotion in Townsville last week marked the first time in Australian army that a PNGDF member has held such a high command position.
According to the third brigade, the appointment was one of the initiatives taken by Chief of Defence Force General Angus Campbell to help Pacific island nations in the growth and development of their respective militaries.
Commander third brigade, Brigadier Dave McCammon, commented on the significance of the promotion and its meaning for the Australian Defence Force and PNGDF.
“We have a relationship that has endured wars together, this promotion is a reflection of the strength between the PNGDF and ADF,” McCammon said.
“The ADF has previously embedded PNGDF officers at varying ranks, the key difference with this appointment is the seniority and being in a position of command.
“Boniface is involved in the day-to-day management of the third brigade, which is going through important changes, he will be integral in supporting this.”
PNGDF adviser to Australia Col Siale Diro attended the ceremony and reiterated the importance of the event. “Boniface’s promotion is a quantum leap, it sets a platform for how we must face oncoming challenges in our region together,” Diro said.
“The relationship between the Australian army and Papua New Guinea Defence Force is strong, and it will always be strong.”
Australian army LT-COL Brent Hughes experienced working with Aruma while posted to Papua New Guinea, and shed light on Aruma’s leadership qualities.
“He is a smart guy, has a great heart, is very honest and trustworthy, these qualities breed friendship which is very important in that role.
“His knowledge of the region will aid in training for specific terrain types, and what will be of greatest importance is his leadership.”
Aruma was appreciative to be appointed the role, looking forward to learning and offering his experience to the ADF.
“I’m looking forward to absorbing as much as I can and hopefully bestow my own knowledge to the third brigade, in particular the mindset of improvisation on the go,” he said.
Aruma, a distinguished officer in the PNGDF for 27 years, got his Master’s in international relations and defence studies from the Deakin and Australian National Universities.