Aussie soldier killed in Afghanistan
Australian military chiefs have dismissed speculation suggesting Sargeant Brett Wood's death was revenge for killing Osama Bin Laden.
Experts insist that deaths are inevitable as Afghanistan's so called "fighting season" gets underway and summer begins.
Today Prime Minister Julia Gillard addressed the House of Representatives and offered her condolences on the death of fallen digger Wood,
"We are making progress." said Gillard,
"We make that progress because of the sacrifice and the dedication of people like Sargeant Wood."
The grieving wife of fallen soldier Brett Wood says she has lost a "brilliant husband" and a "best friend".
Victorian Brett Wood, a 32-year-old "incredible soldier and decorated warrior", died in Afghanistan last night.
Two colleagues were also injured when an improvised explosive device detonated in Southern Afghanistan. The men, all members of the elite 2nd Commando Regiment, were on foot at the time.
In statement released by the Australian Defence force, Elvi Wood said: "I would like the Australian public to know what a brilliant husband, son, brother, friend and soldier Brett Mathew Wood was.
"Brett was extremely proud to be part of the 2nd Commando Regiment and he considered many of his colleagues to be his second family. He was an excellent soldier, a true leader and a friend to all in his unit.
"The care and support we have received today from the Defence Force as well as Brett’s colleagues simply reinforces how well respected Brett was.
She added: "Brett was a much loved son, grandson and brother who inspired his family with his dedication and generosity.
"I have not only lost my husband, I have lost my best friend. The past six years with him were the happiest of my life and it was the biggest honour ever to become his wife and to be part of his family.
"Brett, you have done your country proud and you will always be remembered.
"I love you with all of my heart. Be in peace now."
Sergeant Wood, from Ferntree Gully, had completed 15 years of service, and was currently on his third deployment in Afghanistan.
He was considered an "inspirational leader, popular and highly respected" and had previously served in Papua New Guinea, East Timor and Iraq.
He was awarded the Medal for Gallantry in 2006.
In a separate incident, three more soldiers were wounded after a gunfire exchange. All are currently receiving treatment and are expected to be discharged from a medical facility in Tarin Kowt later today.
The families of all soldiers have been notified by the ADF.
The NATO-led International Security Assistance Force had earlier said in a statement that an overnight roadside bomb attack had killed four foreign soldiers in eastern Afghanistan.
"Four International Security Assistance Force service members died following an improvised explosive device attack in eastern Afghanistan today," ISAF said.
"It is ISAF policy to defer casualty identification procedures to the relevant national authorities."
ISAF did not give further details of who was involved, what exactly happened or where it occurred, in line with policy.
Sergeant Wood is the 24th Australian soldier to be killed in Afghanistan since 2002. Another 174 now have been wounded in action.
Poll: Is it time to withdraw our troops from Afghanistan?
Air Chief Marshall Houston offered his condolences to Sgt Wood's wife and said Defence would take care of her.
"To the families of those wounded, I want them to know their loved ones are receiving the best possible treatment and will continue to act in their best interests as they recover," he said.
Defence Minister Stephen Smith says it is a tragedy for Sgt Wood's family, and a terrible reminder for the families of the other 23 soldiers who have died in Afghanistan.
Corporal Richard Atkinson, 22, and Sapper Jamie Larcombe, 21, were both killed during separate incidents in the country in February.
Did you know Sgt Brett Wood? Email our newsdesk by clicking here
Related article
Prime Minister Julia Gillard reaffirms Afghanistan mission
