Craftsman Beau Pridue is welcomed home

Craftsman Beau Pridue has arrived at RAAF Base Williamtown on his final journey home. Craftsman Pridue died from injuries sustained in a vehicle accident inEast Timoron 15 September 2011.

Soldiers from 8th Combat Service Support Battalion formed an honour guard and bearer party to escort Craftsman Pridue’s casket from the RAAF C-130 aircraft to his grieving family.

Chief of Army Lieutenant General David Morrison, Commander 2^nd Division Major General Craig Williams and Commander 8^th Brigade Brigadier Phillip Bridie paid their respects to his waiting family.

“Craftsman Beau Pridue was a fine Australian, a proud citizen of this country and a man prepared to serve on operations as an Army Reservist.  He died while answering his Nation’s call,” Lieutenant General Morrison said.

“Craftsman Pridue’s commitment and dedication to helping the people of Timor Leste will never be forgotten.”

The family and colleagues of Craftsman Pridue gathered at the moving ceremony as they witnessed the Chief of Army present the Australian Service Medal with clasp Timor-Leste, Australian Defence Medal and the Timor-Leste Solidarity Medal.

Craftsman Pridue has been described as a professional soldier who could be relied upon to always get the job done. He consistently dedicated his time and effort in support to tasks and events within his battalion.

The funeral service for Craftsman Beau Pridue is likely to be held next week.

Media note:
For details on accessing the vision please contact Regional Public Affairs Manager – NSW, Raveena Carroll-Kenney on 0405 310 176.
Images of the ceremony will be available from the Defence website via the following link on tomorrow, Thursday:
http://images.defence.gov.au/fotoweb/Grid.fwx?archiveId=5003=&search=11120783

Media contact:

Defence Media Operations: 02 6127 1999