United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor (UNTAET) was established to return East Timor to stability and was also tasked with taking over the responsibilities of the International Force in East Timor (INTERFET). The transition from INTERFET to UNTAET took place in Feb 2000.

Canadian Military Involvement

The Canadian contribution to INTERFET � a reinforced light infantry company - was transferred to UNTAET on 21 Feb 2000. The infantry company ceased operations and returned home at the end of Mar 2000, after 6 months in theatre. Canadian participation was designated Operation TOUCAN.

Insignia

A medal for both UNAMET and UNTAET was established on 9 Dec 1999. The ribbon had two outer bands of UN blue, representing the UN presence in East Timor. Inside the two bands were two equal bars - closest to the blue a crimson bar and closest to the center sunrise yellow. These colours represented the brilliant and spectacular sunrises and sunsets experienced in East Timor. The center of the ribbon was a band of white, traditionally the colour of peace and hope. Given a 90 day qualifying time, it would appear that the INTERFET soldiers joining the mission only from Feb to Mar of 2000 would not have qualified for this award.

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