Lance Corporal Luke Gavin - 8496923 aged 29

Lance Corporal Gavin was born in Manly, NSW in 1982. He enlisted in the Army in 2004. On completion of his basic training and initial employment training he was posted as an infantryman to the 2nd Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment, in Townsville in 2005. He was promoted to Lance Corporal in January 2009. He was a highly-qualified soldier, having completed specialist training as a combat first aider, Pashtu linguist and infantry support weapons operator.

Lance Corporal Gavin was a highly-respected member of the 2nd Battalion. He was acknowledged by his superiors for his positive attitude and loyalty. His subordinate soldiers were motivated by his professionalism, mateship and outstanding specialist skills. He was also known for being a devoted husband and father.

Lance Corporal Gavin has been awarded the following honours and awards:

Australian Service Medal with clasp Timor – Leste

Australian Defence Medal

Timor – Leste Solidarity Medal

Australian Active Service Medal with clasp International Coalition Against Terrorism (ICAT)

NATO Non Article 5 Medal with clasp – International Security Assistance Force (ISAF).

During Lance Corporal Gavin's service in the Australian Army he deployed on the following operations:

Operation ASTUTE (East Timor) - May 2006 – October 2006

Operation ASTUTE (East Timor) – October 2007 – March 2008

Operation ASTUTE (East Timor) - May 2009 – February 2010

Operation SLIPPER (Afghanistan) – June 2011 – October 2011.

Lance Corporal Luke Gavin was a member of the Mentoring Task Force—Three and was from the 2nd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (2RAR) based in Townsville, North Queensland.

Lance Corporal Gavin is survived by his wife and their three children.

Memorial at the Australian War Memorial

Also commemorated at the Afghanistan Avenue of Honour in Yungaburra Queensland

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