Australian soldiers in Afghanistan have farewelled Private Matthew Lambert, the latest digger to die in the conflict.
In a simple ceremony at Tarin Kowt, members of the Mentoring Task Force 3 (MTF-3)gave Pte Lambert a fitting farewell, Defence said on Friday.
The soldier died on Monday when an improvised explosive device detonated while he was on patrol with colleagues.
Commanding officer of MTF-3, Lieutenant Colonel Chris Smith said Pte Lambert was a highly professional and disciplined soldier.
"He never failed to impress me with his drive, personal philosophy and professionalism," he said, adding the words that best described him were "courageous, fit, strong, and disciplined".
"To all of us who shared this mission with him, his death was sudden and unexpected, but sadly that is the nature of war."
The commander of Australian Defence Force personnel deployed to the Middle East, Major General Angus Campbell said Pte Lambert was known as a physically and mentally tough soldier.
"He forged an impressive reputation as decisive, dependable, focused on the mission, and ever protective of his mates."
He also was known for his even temperament and as a quiet performer whose efforts did not go unnoticed.
"He was the quintessential soldier, a highly-trained specialist who was admired and respected."
General Campbell said Pte Lambert's loss would not just be deeply felt just because of what he did - but because of who he was.
He represented the best aspects of the Australian Army and the defence force.
Pte Lambert's body is being repatriated through RAAF Base Amberley, Queensland.
He will be buried with full military honours.
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