Slain commando farewelled in Sydney

Lieutenant Michael Fussell, the seventh Australian soldier to die in Afghanistan
since 2002, has been farewelled in a moving ceremony in Sydney.
Family members, friends and fellow soldiers gathered with politicians and Defence
commanders for the commemorative service conducted at the home of his unit, the
army's 4RAR commando battalion at Holsworthy army base.
His name has now been inscribed on The Rock, the commando's memorial to their fallen.
Lieutenant Fussell was killed by an improvised explosive device while on patrol in
Oruzgan province in Afghanistan last week.
He was the first Australian officer to die in Afghanistan.
Among those present at the ceremony on Thursday were Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and
Defence head Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston.
Mr Rudd said the fallen soldier's loyalty, determination and professionalism were
true expressions of the ANZAC spirit.
"Lieutenant Michael Fussell was a patriotic Australian and a valued member of his
regiment," he said.
"He died leading Australian soldiers and proudly serving his country. Michael is
owed a special debt of gratitude that can never fully be repaid.
"I know that on this sad occasion, all Australians will remember and honour this
young Australian. His sacrifice will not be forgotten."