Private Baker Returns To Australia

Private Baker Returns To Australia

Private Ashley Baker, the young Australian soldier who died in Timor Leste last week, was returned to Australia yesterday evening and met by family and colleagues at RAAF Base, Amberley.

At the request of PTE Baker's family only close relatives and colleagues, including soldiers from his unit, the 2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (2 RAR), attended the ceremony.

Members of the Timor Leste Battle Group who were serving with PTE Baker at the time of his death, provided an official escort aboard the C130 aircraft which left Dili earlier yesterday.

The solemn repatriation ceremony allowed PTE Baker's family to pay their respects in an intimate and private setting.

Major General Richard Wilson, Commander 1st Division, attended the ceremony and spoke about PTE Baker as a dedicated and professional soldier.

"Ashley was a well-respected and valuable member of 2 RAR, and we are saddened by his loss. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time," Major General Wilson said.

PTE Baker's family continues to request that media respect their privacy as they grieve their loss.

ENDS

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