Statement on behalf of the family of Lance Corporal Stjepan ‘Rick’ Milosevic

Defence releases the following statement on behalf of the family of Lance Corporal Stjepan ‘Rick’ Milosevic

Rick was a courageous, committed, immensely proud soldier. His desire to serve his country and honour his family saw him join the army at thirty-six.

At Kapooka, Rick was awarded Most Outstanding Soldier, and during his Junior Leaders Course, he was presented with the award for the Trainee of Merit.

His passion and commitment saw him rapidly promoted to Lance Corporal.

In his four short years of service he would serve honourably in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Rick was a typical Australian bloke, friendly, with a dry sense of humour and a natural charm. He had a comfortable ease. He would show respect to everyone he met.

We are all proud of what Rick was able to achieve – not only as a soldier, but as a loving partner, devoted father, son and brother.

Our family is now united by grief as we try to come to terms with the loss of Rick.

We thank everyone for their heartfelt wishes and messages of condolences, but this is our private time to grieve and we would like our privacy, especially that of Rick’s children, to be respected.

Rick is survived by his partner, Kelly, daughters, Sarah (8) and Kate (6), mother, brothers and sisters.

Media Note:
An image of Lance Corporal Milosevic, provided courtesy of the Milosevic family, is available at: http://images.defence.gov.au/12130819