Lance Corporal Todd Chidgey was serving with a Protective Security Detachment providing protection for a senior Australian officer at Headquarters International Security Assistance Force Joint Command. Lance Corporal Chidgey died in a non-combat related incident in Afghanistan on 1 July 2014.

Lance Corporal Chidgey is survived by his mother, father, brothers and partner. See Family Statement.

Twenty-nine-year-old Lance Corporal Chidgey was born in Gosford, New South Wales, in 1985. He joined the Australian Army in March 2006 under the Special Forces Direct Recruiting Scheme and on completion of his initial employment training, was posted to the then 4th Battalion (Commando), The Royal Australian Regiment, now the 2nd Commando Regiment, in September 2006. Lance Corporal Chidgey deployed on six tours to Afghanistan ranging from two weeks to six months.

Lance Corporal Chidgey’s colleagues in the 2nd Commando Regiment have described him as a brilliant bloke to know and work with, who was loyal to the core and would do anything for his mates. A consummate professional and a dedicated soldier, Lance Corporal Chidgey was one of the hardest working members of the Regiment, who never sought recognition or reward.

Lance Corporal Chidgey has received the following honours and awards:

• Australian Active Service Medal with Clasp International Coalition Against Terrorism (ICAT);
• Afghanistan Campaign Medal;
• Australian Service Medal with Clasp Counter Terrorism / Special Recovery;
• Australian Defence Medal;
• NATO non article 5 Medal with Clasp ISAF;
• Multiple Tour Indicator 3 North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), International Security Assistance Force (ISAF);
• Soldiers Medallion;
• Infantry Combat Badge; and
• Returned from Active Service Badge.

During Lance Corporal Chidgey’s service in the Australian Army, he deployed on the following operations:

• Operation SLIPPER (Afghanistan) May – July 2014;
• Operation SLIPPER (Afghanistan) March 2014;
• Operation SLIPPER (Afghanistan) October – November 2013;
• Operation SLIPPER (Afghanistan) July – December 2012;
• Operation SLIPPER (Afghanistan) February – July 2010; and
• Operation SLIPPER (Afghanistan) June – November 2008.

Defence requests that media respects the family’s request for privacy and compassion. Speculation about the circumstances surrounding Lance Corporal Chidgey’s death is a cause of great distress for his family and friends.

The Australian Defence Force Investigative Service (ADFIS) has commenced an investigation into the matter. This investigation will examine the evidence and establish the facts. Defence will provide further information when the investigation process is complete.