Lance Corporal Todd Chidgey begins final journey home

Special Forces soldier, Commando Lance Corporal Todd Chidgey was farewelled by his mates during a private memorial service held at Kabul International Airport – North, followed by a traditional Ramp Ceremony.

Commander JTF633, Major General Craig Orme said all operational deaths were a tragedy as he paid tribute to the soldier's efforts on Operation Slipper.

“Today we farewelled another fine Australian soldier who dedicated his life to serve his country,” he said.

“Lance Corporal Todd Chidgey was part of the Defence family and today we salute his service as we offer our thoughts and prayers to his family, friends and colleagues.”

Lance Corporal Chidgey was flown from Kabul to Australia’s Middle East Region Headquarters at Al Minhad Air Base, United Arab Emirates before returning to Australia.

Lance Corporal Chidgey had been a member of 2 Commando Regiment since September 2006 and had deployed six times to Afghanistan each ranging from two weeks to six months.

Colleagues from his unit described him as a brilliant bloke to know and work with, was loyal to the core and would do anything for his mates.

A consummate professional and a dedicated soldier, Lance Corporal Chidgey was regarded by his mates as one of the hardest working members of the Regiment who never sought recognition or reward.

Lance Corporal Todd Chidgey was part of the Protective Security Detachment (PSD) for a senior Australian officer at Kabul’s Headquarters International Security Assistance Force Joint Command (IJC).

The Australian Defence Force Investigative Service continues its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death.