Corporal Cameron Baird farewelled The body of Australian Corporal Cameron Baird arrived today at the RAAF Base Richmond from Afghanistan, where he was killed in the Khod Valley last Saturday. The soldier of the 2nd Commando Regiment fell during a fire fight with insurgents and is the 40th Australian soldier to die in Afghanistan. Members of his unit formed an honour guard and bearer party to escort Corporal Baird's casket to his waiting family. Chief of Army, Lieutenant General David Morrison praised his courage and "his sacrifice in the service of our nation." Corporal Baird was awarded the Medal for Gallantry in 2007, after recovering the body of a soldier under intense fire. Special Operations Commander Australia, Major General Gilmore praised the fallen Digger for his bravery and leadership. "He was an experienced, combat-hardened soldier, who led from the front, getting the best out of those who worked alongside him," he said. Born in Burnie, Tasmania, he had served in East Timor, Iraq and was on his fifth tour of Afghanistan. Baird's family released a statement thanking the Australian community for its support. "The support received from family, friends, the 2nd Commando Regiment, the Australian Defence Force and Australian Football League has been deeply appreciated," it said.