Sergeant Brett Wood, MG, of the 2nd Commando Regiment has returned home, met by members of his unit and his family, in a solemn and dignified ceremony at RAAF Base Richmond.
Soldiers from Sergeant Wood’s unit formed an honour guard and bearer party to receive and carry Sergeant Wood’s casket from the Royal Australian Air Force C-17 Globemaster aircraft.
The Chief of Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston; the Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Ken Gillespie and Special Operations Commander Australia, Major General Gus Gilmore attended the Ramp Ceremony.
Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Ken Gillespie paid tribute to the fallen Commando.
“Army has lost an incredibly talented and truly courageous soldier and his wife has lost a very loving husband. The military family will ensure that Brett’s mates are looked after as they carry out their very important mission. They will also ensure that his beloved family will also know of the compassion and support which will become more familiar over the days, weeks and months ahead,” said Lieutenant General Gillespie.
Special Operations Commander, Major General Gus Gilmore said Brett would be remembered by the entire Special Operations community.
“Sergeant Brett Wood epitomised the values of courage, dedication to duty, loyalty and mateship. He was admired and respected by all who served with him,” said Major General Gilmore.
Sergeant Brett Wood, MG, aged 32, was killed in action on 23 May 2011 during a partnered Special Operations Task Group (SOTG) and Afghan National Security Forces mission.
Media note:
Imagery will be available from 6pm at: http://images.defence.gov.au/fotoweb/Grid.fwx?archiveId=5003=&search=20112923
Pool vision will be provided to metropolitan television stations after 5pm. Please contact Regional Public Affairs Manager – NSW, Ben Wickham (02) 9359 2785 or 0411 203 579 for details on accessing the vision.
