'Unacceptable': Soldier dies in routine training accident, investigation started | The Queenslander

Описание: A soldier killed in a routine training exercise near a key garrison city is being remembered for being a "real character" as an investigation into the accident ramps up.

The victim and two other soldiers were taken to hospital after an M113 armoured personnel carrier rolled west of Townsville about 6.30pm on Wednesday.

The soldiers formed part of Townsville's 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment, an armoured infantry battalion with a lineage that can be traced back to 1945.

Battalion leader Brigadier Ben McLennan said the soldier had served the brigade for his entire seven-year military career and was a key mentor figure to younger troops.

An investigation into the accident, compromising commonwealth and army officials along with police, is under way.

Brig McLennan would not speculate on what had caused the crash.

"We were conducting a crew commander's course in the training area, it is a routine training activity for the 3rd Battalion," he said.

"We use this (vehicle) on a daily basis, it's a very reliable vehicle, and we keep its maintenance record in the highest possible standards."

The incident occurred during a training course at the Townsville Field Training Area.

Brig McLennan said the soldier was part of the army's response to the COVID-19 pandemic and he also contributed to Australia's partnerships with Papua New Guinea and Ukraine.

"He was known as a real character amongst his mates," he said.

"He was also known as someone who always put his service before himself. His memory will be cherished and honoured."

Defence Minister Richard Marles said the dead soldier's family, friends, loved ones and colleagues were in his thoughts.

"As a small, tight-knit community I know this will be felt right across Townsville and the entire Australian Defence Force," he posted on Twitter on Thursday.

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