Media Room: Media Releases

PERSONAL DETAILS OF SOLDIER KILLED IN AFGHANISTAN

Private Benjamin Ranaudo was killed by an anti-personnel explosive device in Afghanistan yesterday.

Private Ranaudo was a member of the Townsville based 1^st Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment. He was a member of the Mentoring and Reconstruction Task Force in Afghanistan and was killed while on operations north of Tarin Kowt early Saturday morning, Afghanistan time.

Private Ranaudo was 22 years old and leaves behind a loving family who are currently receiving support from Defence representatives.

The family has requested their privacy be respected during this difficult time. They will not be conducting any media interviews.

Chief of the Defence Force, Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, earlier today extended his deepest condolences to the family and friends of Private Ranaudo.

“Our hearts go out to Benjamin’s family during this very sad time. We will do everything we can to support them as they deal with their terrible loss.”

“Private Benjamin Ranaudo was a professional soldier who served enthusiastically and with distinction. His career record speaks to a young man, very well trained, with an extraordinary array of completed courses. Benjamin was clearly dedicated to his career as a soldier and committed to the profession of arms. He died ensuring that terrorist groups do not have Afghanistan as a base from which they can plan and mount attacks,” said Air Chief Marshal Houston.

Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Ken Gillespie, extended his condolences to the family and friends of Private Ranaudo.

“Our hearts go out to Benjamin’s family during this very sad time. I hope the knowledge that they are in the thoughts and prayers of so many Australians will be a source of comfort for them.

“Private Ranaudo died while serving his nation and his sacrifice will never be forgotten.  This loss is felt heavily by the wider Defence Community, and particularly by members of the Australian Army,” said Lieutenant General Gillespie.

Media Note:

The family has requested their privacy be respected. They will not be conducting any media interviews.

An image of Private Ranaudo will be available from www.defence.gov.au/media/download.

Media contact: Defence Media Liaison: 02 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664