22/05/2026
Today we pause to remember SGT Brett Wood MG DSM, killed in action on 23 May 2011 by an improvised explosive device in Helmand Province, Afghanistan.
Brett joined the Australian Army in 1996 and successfully completed Commando Selection in 1998, going on to serve with Australia’s elite special forces.
Across multiple deployments to Bougainville, East Timor, Iraq, and Afghanistan, Brett proved himself a fearless and decisive combat leader. In Afghanistan, he led from the front in high-risk operations against enemy forces, demonstrating exceptional courage under fire. Even when wounded, he continued to fight, direct his team, and maintain pressure on the enemy—actions that earned him the Medal for Gallantry.
Respected by his peers and trusted by those he led, Brett combined aggression in battle with absolute commitment to his team. His leadership, skill, and determination in combat defined his service and left a lasting legacy within the Australian special operations community.
To mark the 15 year anniversary of Brett’s passing, the Zero79 Foundation in collaboration with released a commemorative rum in his honour.
Lest We Forget