Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Joseph F. Dunford, Jr., met with his Australian counterpart Chief of the Defence Force Air Chief Marshal Mark Binskin, in Washington D.C., April 20, 2018.

The two leaders discussed a wide range of issues, including the global threat of terrorism and security in the Pacific region. The visit also served to strengthen the U.S.-Australia alliance as the two countries increase collaboration in counter-terrorism efforts and regional capacity building among other areas of mutual interest. General Dunford hosted an Armed Forces Full Honors Arrival ceremony at Joint Base Myer-Whipple Field following the meeting, where he presented Air Chief Marshal Binskin with the Legion of Merit for his dedicated support of the U.S.-Australia alliance, which directly led to improved security in the Indo-Pacific theater. The U.S. and Australia are celebrating 100 years of "Mateship" and together form an alliance that plays a critical role in maintaining peace and stability in the region.