The mother of a soldier killed during parachuting training told a packed funeral attended by the Prime Minister how her life was changed forever when there was a knock at the door.
Lance Corporal Jack Fitzgibbon died during special forces training at RAAF Base Richmond in Sydney’s north on March 6.
A funeral service was held at St Joseph’s Catholic Church in Cessnock, attended by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, Defense Minister Richard Marles, Hunter MP Dan Repacholi and Opposition Leader Peter Dutton.
Streets and car parks in the city’s CBD were closed overnight in anticipation of the full military funeral – with diggers lining the streets as his coffin passed by.
Arm in arm, pallbearers carry Lance Corporal Fitzgibbon’s coffin into St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Monday morning.
The 33-year-old was the only son of former Rudd government defense minister Joel Fitzgibbon.
His mother Di Fitzgibbon told the service her life had changed when there was a knock on the door and she would miss her son “with all my heart”.
“We have laughed so much at your various exploits in recent weeks because your mother’s concern is no longer relevant,” she said through tears.
The soldier’s sister, television journalist Grace Fitzgibbon, tearfully told attendees that she was broken by the loss, but would continue to carry her brother’s memory “in my bones.”
“As a little sister, I promise to step up and protect our family from whatever life throws at us,” the Seven News journalist said.
“Whenever there are questions to answer or decisions to make, I just ask myself, ‘What would Jack do?’ I love you more than you will ever know.’
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was among the mourners. Above, he kisses Joel Fitzgibbon
Soldiers lined the streets to say goodbye to Lance Corporal Fitzgibbon
Grace’s older sister, Caitlin, choked up as she explained that the serviceman wouldn’t meet his first nephew, but that she knew her brother would watch over him.
“Your last message told me that a big little boy Hulk is what we want,” she said. “That big boy will know everything there is about his Uncle Jack.”
Lance Corporal Fitzgibbon’s time in the Army included an operational deployment to Papua New Guinea and roles with the 2nd Commando Regiment.
The regimental commander, who cannot be identified due to his role in the special forces, said the signalman died in service to his country after a decade in the ADF.
“The nature of a soldier’s life is inherently dangerous and carries no risks or consequences,” the serving officer said.
“Jack will never be forgotten and his service as one of the most capable transmission operators will inspire those to come.”
“He leaves behind an honorable legacy and he will be missed. Rest now, your shift is over.
The Ministry of Defense confirmed that an investigation had been launched into the cause of death and that all skydiving activities had been temporarily suspended.
Former Defense Minister Joel Fitzgibbon and his wife Di are in mourning
His sister, television journalist Grace Fitzgibbon, shared powerful tributes to her brother on social media
He will be remembered for his courage, humor and service, the memorial service said.
In a statement released by the ministry, Joel Fitzgibbon said the family was “heartbroken by the loss of our wonderful Jack.”
“Serving in the Special Forces was Jack’s dream job and we take some comfort in the fact that he died serving his nation in an ADF uniform,” he said.
“Jack was a dedicated, highly trained and courageous soldier. He was an experienced parachutist.
“Our lives will never be the same without Jack, but we will always remain proud of him and his many accomplishments.”
Lance Corporal Fitzgibbon served in the 2nd Commando Regiment, part of the Army’s Special Operations Command.
“Jack was loved for his courage and known for his sense of humor and his service to the country,” Brigadier James Kidd told reporters the day after his death.