Condolences for Those Killed in Helicopter Crash

Condolences for those killed in Seaking Helicopter Crash

The Chief of the Defence Force, General Peter Cosgrove, on behalf of the Chief of Navy, Vice Admiral Chris Ritchie and Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Angus Houston, has extended his condolences to the families and friends of those killed in the Seaking Helicopter accident on the Island of Nias yesterday.

"These men and women died in the service of their country helping others in a time of dire need. Their contribution cannot be understated." General Cosgrove said

Six members of the Royal Australian Navy and three from the Royal Australian Air Force were killed in the accident. They were:

Navy

* Lieutenant Mathew Davey from the ACT

* Lieutenant Matthew Goodall from NSW

* Lieutenant Paul Kimlin from the ACT

* Lieutenant Jonathan King from QLD

* Petty Officer Stephen Slattery from NSW

* Leading Seaman Scott Bennett from NSW

Air Force

* Squadron Leader Paul McCarthy from WA

* Flight Lieutenant Lyn Rowbottom from QLD

* Sergeant Wendy Jones from QLD

"Our thoughts are with the families, friends and colleagues of the men and women whose lives have so tragically been cut short," General Cosgrove said.

"They have made an extraordinary commitment and the ultimate sacrifice to their country and their professional and dedicated service in the ADF is something for which we are all proud".

The bodies of the deceased are expected to return to Australia next week.

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