In Memory of Greg Sher

Friday, 9 January 2008

MSPA 010/09 

PRIVATE GREG SHER RETURNS HOME 

Private Greg Sher who was tragically killed in Afghanistan has returned home to Australia today, met by family, friends and colleagues in a solemn ceremony held at Tullamarine Airport, Melbourne.

Soldiers from Sydney’s 1st Commando Regiment, the unit in which Greg served, formed an honour guard and bearer party to receive and carry the casket from the aircraft to his family.  

The emotional ramp ceremony was the family’s first opportunity to pay their respects to Greg since his death in Afghanistan on Sunday.

Minister for Defence, the Hon. Joel Fitzgibbon MP; Shadow Minister for Defence Science and Personnel, the Hon. Bob Baldwin MP (representing the Shadow Minister for Defence); Member for Melbourne Ports, Mr Michael Danby MP; Acting Chief of the Defence Force, Lieutenant General David Hurley; and Commanding Officer 1st Commando Regiment were in attendance.

Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Ken Gillespie and the Special Operations Commander Australia, Major General Tim McOwan paid tribute to Greg on behalf of the Australian Army.

“We in the Army extend our deepest sympathies to Greg’s family during this very difficult and emotional time.

“Greg was a dedicated, passionate and well respected solider who made the ultimate sacrifice in serving our nation. We strongly support his family, his friends, his unit and the wider Army who are mourning his loss,” Lieutenant General Gillespie said.

Major General Tim McOwan described Greg as a remarkable man who took pride in his work and who others looked up to.

“Greg epitomised the characteristics all soldiers strive for: he was brave, loyal and determined. Greg was a quiet achiever who never sought praise or recognition for his work.  He will be fondly remembered and deeply missed,” Major General McOwan said.

The family continues to request that the media respects their privacy as they grieve their loss and lay Greg to rest.  

Media note: Defence vision will be pooled through Melbourne metropolitan networks after 3.30pm. Still imagery will be available at: http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/

Media contact: Defence Media Liaison: 02 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664