Taliban rocket attack kills Digger in Afghanistan

The Australian ^ | 5th January 2009 | Samantha Maiden

[naturalman1975]

ANOTHER Australian soldier has been killed in Afghanistan after a rocket exploded in a defence compound.

He is the eighth Australian soldier to die in the conflict zone.

Australian Defence Force Chief Angus Houston told a press conference at defence headquarters this morning that he would not be releasing the man's name yet at the request of his family.

"It is with deep regret that I inform you an Australian soldier has been killed. The soldier was killed instantly when a rocket exploded in the compound. To the family I want to convey I am terribly sorry for their loss,” he said today.

"We had a rocket that sustained a direct hit, in very close proximity to this fine soldier. Several rockets were fired, one hit the facility that our people were in.

"At this stage I am unable to share any of the soldier's personal details. In time I want every Australian to know this fine soldier's name. However, until such time as we are able we are not releasing his name.

Air Marshal Houston said the situation in the region remained very dangerous but troops were well-trained and resourced.

"But the very nature of our work means our men and women will sometimes be in harms way,” he said.

"This soldier died serving our nation. he was experienced with a previous operational tour in East Timor. We should remember his service with much gratitute and respect.

"Our operations will continue and we will not be deterred ... from taking the fight to the Taliban."

[naturalman1975]

If there's a trip one way, he said,
Into battle grim for me,
Don't let them say when I am dead:
He died to save democracy;
Nor let them say: He fought to free
Enslaved nations, white or brown;
Just print these simple words for me:

He would not let his cobbers down.

[combat_boots]

Prayers for him and his family.

Thanks to all those who support us Down Under.

[Marine_Uncle]

Your our brothers in arms. We each recognized the losses from each side as these brave men and women who wear the military uniforms serve often in great harms way but don’t shirk their duties nor back down to our common enemy.