Statement From The Family Of Private Grant Kirby

Statement From The Family Of Private Grant Kirby

The following statement has been released at the request of the family of Private Grant Kirby who, with Private Tomas Dale, was tragically killed in action when an Improvised Explosive Device was detonated while they were on patrol in Afghanistan.

Grant was part of a close and loving family, father Gary and mum Dianne, brothers Shaun and Luke, sister Lauren, and former wife Edwina and their two daughters Isabella (10) and Madeleine (8).

"While Grant and I were no longer married, he was very much a part of our family," said Edwina, "he was a dedicated father and my very close friend."

"Grant was always there for our girls and was totally involved in their sports and school events when he was not deployed."

Edwina said Grant was an incredibly honourable person who had an immense amount of pride in his job serving the country.

Grant's father Gary said that his son had always been keen to be in the Army.

"In fact after suffering shin splints in his first attempt to join, he stuck with it and successfully tried again."

"He was very passionate about health and fitness and kept himself in very good shape," Gary said.

"Grant was one of the boys," said his sister Lauren, "and being older was often called 'Dad' by the boys in his unit.

"He was a role model at times and often a mentor to them."

Gary said the family was incredibly proud of Grant and it will take time to come to terms with his loss. The family would be grateful for privacy to enable them to grieve and will not be making further comment at this time.

© Scoop Media