Media Room: Media Releases

The men and women of the Security Detachment at Baghdad gathered in the pre-dawn light to commemorate the life of a friend and colleague, Private Jake Kovco. Joined by the Commander of Australian Forces in the Middle East, Brigadier Paul Symon, they bowed in silence as Chaplain David Snape led them in prayer.

Brigadier Symon recognised Jake as someone for whom friendships were lasting and important and he urged Jake’s friends to reflect upon the special memories they have of times shared during training, operations and the everyday interactions of service life.

The thoughts of all present went out to Jake’s family.

Chaplain Snape noted "…we can’t know what the family is going through, but it is important that they know that we care".

Brigadier Symon expressed the sincere feelings of all Australian servicemen and women in the Middle East, stating that "…our heartfelt sympathy goes out to all of Jake’s family".

The commemorative service was timed to coincide with Private Kovco’s funeral in his hometown of Briagalong in Victoria.