Lance Corporal Todd Chidgey was returned home to his family and comrades on Wednesday, 9 July 2014, at a solemn ceremony at Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base Richmond in Sydney.
An honour guard and bearer party formed by Lance Corporal Chidgey’s fellow soldiers from the 2nd Commando Regiment, escorted his casket from a RAAF C-17 Globemaster aircraft to his waiting family.
Lance Corporal Chidgey was received by his family, members his unit, the 2nd Commando Regiment, Chief of Army, Lieutenant General David Morrison, AO and Special Operations Commander Australia, Brigadier Dan McDaniel, DSC, DSM.
Chief of Army, Lieutenant General David Morrison paid tribute to Lance Corporal Chidgey. "Today Lance Corporal Chidgey completes the journey home to his family and loved ones," Lieutenant General Morrison said. "Lance Corporal Chidgey was held in high regard by his unit and his mates. His loss will be deeply felt by all who knew him, as a loyal mate and a talented and professional soldier.
"He died while in the service of our Nation in an operational theatre, and today we are honouring this service as we grieve his passing. My deepest condolences are extended to Lance Corporal Chidgey’s family, friends and fellow soldiers on this very difficult day."
Special Operations Commander Australia, Brigadier Dan McDaniel said Lance Corporal Todd Chidgey was an experienced and respected member of Special Operations Command. "Lance Corporal Todd Chidgey was loyal, diligent and committed to the service of his country, his mates and his family."
"After eight years of service and six deployments, Lance Corporal Chidgey has completed his last journey home from operations."
"Lance Corporal Chidgey’s mates now mourn his loss alongside his mother, father, brothers and partner. He will be missed but never forgotten by the 2nd Commando Regiment and wider Special Operations Command community."
Brigadier McDaniel said. Lance Corporal Todd Chidgey died as a result of a non-combat related incident in Afghanistan on 1 July 2014. Lance Corporal Chidgey was serving with the Protective Security Detachment, providing protection for a senior Australian officer in Afghanistan.
The Australian Defence Force Investigative Service (ADFIS) has commenced an investigation into the matter. This investigation will examine the evidence and establish the facts. Defence will provide further information when the investigation process is complete.
Issued by Ministerial and Executive Coordination and Communication,
Department of Defence,
Canberra, ACT
Phone: 02 6127 1999 Fax: 02 6265 6946
