The body of the first Australian soldier to be killed in Iraq is scheduled to arrive back in Australia on Saturday.
Private Kovco's body is expected to be met by family, the Defence Minister Brendan Nelson and military leaders at Sydney airport.
The body was originally expected back Thursday, but the wrong body was sent, and the family were further upset by the unclear official explanation of his accidental shooting.
Mr Howard says the truth will eventually be established, and denied claims by the family of a cover-up.
Private Kovco's funeral is planned for Tuesday.