Body of soldier returns from Afghanistan

The body of an Australian soldier killed in Afghanistan has returned to Sydney.
Lieutenant Michael Fussell, 25, a member of the 4th Battalion Royal Australian
Regiment, was killed by an improvised explosive device while on patrol in Oruzgan
province on Thursday.
An RAAF C-130 transport plane carrying his body touched down at the Richmond RAAF
base on Wednesday for a traditional ramp ceremony, attended by his family, closest
friends and comrades.
Soldiers from the Sydney-based 4RAR Commando formed an honour guard and bearer party
as Lt Fussell's flag-draped casket was carried from the plane during the emotional
ceremony.
Defence Minister Joel Fitzgibbon, opposition defence spokesman David Johnston, Army
chief Ken Gillespie and special operations commander Tim McOwan also attended,
paying tribute to the fallen soldier.
Lt Fussell was the seventh Australian soldier to die in Afghanistan since 2002 and
the first officer.
Major General McOwan described Lt Fussell as an extraordinary soldier, who had made
the ultimate sacrifice in defending his country.
"Michael was a remarkable soldier who was passionate about his role as a commando
and as an Australian soldier," he said in a statement.
"He was incredibly well-liked within the regiment and will be greatly missed by his
mates and colleagues."
Lieutenant General Gillespie said the army continued to extend the deepest sympathy
to Lt Fussell's family.
"Michael's loss has been deeply felt by the Australian Army," he said.
"We will miss him."
A private memorial service will be held at 4RAR in Sydney on Thursday.