Yvonne Sturgess and Tpr Peter Akkesrdyk, Jason's driver, comfort each other after the remembrance service for Cpl Jason Sturgess. Photo by Pte John Ainley, B Sqn 3/4 Cav Regt

Mate remembered

By Capt Shane Wakley
MEMBERS of B Sqn 3/4 Cav Regt, guests and family of Cpl Jason Sturgess gathered at High Range Training Area on the first anniversary of the accidental death of a much loved member of the squadron.

On February 22, 2002, Cpl Sturgess was killed when his APC left the road at the end of the lead up training for a troop deployment to East Timor.

Cpl Sturgess has served in both 2/14 LHR (QMI) and B Sqn 3/4 Cav Regt.

He had seen previous active service in East Timor and was to be deployed on his second rotation following the training he was undertaking at the time of the accident.

Cpl Sturgess also took part in Operation Gold as part of the ADF’s support to the Sydney 2000 Olympics.

OC Maj Andrew Libby, the previous SSM WO2 Wayne Preedy, the unit Padre Capt Colin Barwise and the family read in front of the squadron and reminisced about a fine soldier.

Throughout the service there was one common theme and that was Jason was a mate, a good bloke and part of a very large family.

It was a moving experience for all and has helped in the grieving process for both unit members and family.

The service was followed by a BBQ in the field when many more stories of Jason’s escapades were recounted.

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