Private Nathanael Galagher was serving with the Special Operations Task Group in Afghanistan when he was tragically killed in a helicopter crash on 30th August 2012 while on his second tour of Afghanistan.

‍Nathanael was born in Wee Waa, New South Wales, in 1989 and joined the Army on 22nd October 2007 and was posted to the 1st Battalion, The Royal Australian Regiment (1 RAR).‍

On completion of his Selection and Training Course and Reinforcement Cycle, Nathanael was posted to the 2nd Commando Regiment in November 2011.

Nathanael always put 110% into everything he did. He had a can-do attitude, always wanting to get the job done and taking everything in his stride. He was an enthusiastic young soldier who was very well respected by his mates from the Regiment.

Nathanael is survived by his partner, parents and sister.

Nathanael has received the following honours and awards:

• Australian Active Service Medal with Clasp ICAT
• Afghanistan Campaign Medal
• Australian Defence Medal
• NATO non-article 5 Medal with Clasp ISAF and Multiple Tour Indicator (2)
• Infantry Combat Badge
• Returned from Active Service Badge

During Nathanael’s service in the Australian Army, he was deployed on the following operations:

• Operation Slipper (Afghanistan) July – August 2012
• Operation Slipper (Afghanistan) September 2009 – Feb 2010