Australian Defence Force pays tribute to a fine soldier

Australian Defence Force pays tribute to a fine soldier

Australian soldier Sergeant Brett Wood, MG was farewelled from Afghanistan yesterday in a moving memorial service and ramp ceremony at Multi National Base- Tarin Kot.

Sergeant Wood was remembered as an exceptional soldier who dedicated his career to serving his nation, his mates and his family.

The Commando was killed in action on 23 May 2011 during a partnered Special Operations Task Group (SOTG) and Afghan National Security Forces mission.

The Commanding Officer of the SOTG described Sergeant Wood as the finest example of an Australian soldier.

“We should all be immensely grateful for having had the privilege of serving with Brett before his last patrol.

“Brett was a man amongst men, a soldier’s soldier, an outstanding leader, a great mate, a loving husband, courageous and professional to a fault,” Lieutenant Colonel ‘G’ said.

Sergeant Wood was honoured in a ceremony within the SOTG compound, surrounded by his mates from the 2nd Commando Regiment, the Special Air Service Regiment and representatives from ISAF and Afghan Task Forces.

After the memorial service, Sergeant Wood’s casket was placed onto a Long Range Patrol Vehicle by members of his platoon and led through an honour guard of soldiers from the Task Group. He was escorted onto a waiting Royal Australian Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft to begin the long journey home to family and friends in Australia.

“It was no surprise to anyone to hear that when Brett was killed, it was once again leading a team of Commandos, at the front, assaulting the enemy – much like in 2006 when he was awarded his Medal for Gallantry.”

“Know that Brett’s sacrifice was not in vain, our cause is just and we will continue to make a difference to the security and future of Afghanistan,” Lieutenant Colonel ‘G’ said.

The Commander Joint Task Force 633, Major General Angus Campbell, said the loss of Sergeant Wood will not diminish the resolve of the Australian Defence Force and their Afghan partners.

“Foremost, our thoughts are with the family of Sergeant Wood during this difficult time. Sergeant Wood served his nation with distinction, commitment and honour.

“We will now take time to appropriately remember his service and the contribution he made in protecting the Afghan people while conducting operations in dangerous circumstances.”

Sergeant Brett Wood will be repatriated in Sydney and buried with full military honours.

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