Death of three soldiers in Afghanistan

31/10/11

The Opposition extends its deepest sympathy to the families, friends and comrades of the three Australian soldiers killed in action in Afghanistan on 29 October 2011.

They were Captain Bryce Duffy, Corporal Ashley Birt and Lance Corporal Luke Gavin.

The three soldiers were killed in action when a member of the Afghan National Army opened fire with an automatic weapon just after the weekly parade at Forward Operating Base in southern Afghanistan.

Seven Australian soldiers were also wounded during the attack and they are in all of our thoughts and prayers.

Shadow Defence Minister David Johnston said this would be an extremely difficult and painful time for the soldiers’ loved ones as well as the Defence community.

He said the bravery and sacrifice of these soldiers will never be forgotten.