By Dan Parker
The funeral of Lieutenant Timothy O'Donnell was a fitting tribute to a man who always wanted to be a soldier.
There was a 21 gun salute, soldiers in uniform, a fly-past by Iroquois helicopters and the casket on a gun carriage.
The service for Lt O'Donnell – killed in Afghanistan last week – was held at
Linton Military Camp near Palmerston North.
Draped in the flag and surrounded by those who knew him best, Lt Tim O'Donnell was given a farewell worthy of a man who for most of his life had dreamed of serving his country.
“Lying there in that casket is not another statistic or an unfortunate accident; it is my nephew and he died for New Zealand,” Barry O’Donnell said.
Outside, two Iroquois flew over Linton Military camp; inside the tribute came in the form of words.
Lt O'Donnell was just 28 when he was killed, but his little brother says he is grateful for the small amount of time they shared.
“As well as being my brother, Tim was one of my best friends,” Andrew O’Donnell said. “I was proud to have him beside me at my wedding last year, I'm very glad he able to share that day with me.”
The service was punctuated by the O'Donnell family's favourite music; at times it was quirky – Kenny Rogers’ ‘The Gambler’ was played – at others it was poignant, ‘He ain’t heavy, he’s my brother’ also played.
Lt O'Donnell was the much loved member of two families, his own and that of the Defence Force.
He committed to them with equal measure.
“He lived our values; he lived his dream,” defence chief Lieutenant General Jerry Mateparae said.
He was proud a member of the 2nd 1st Battalion and had been excited about going to Afghanistan when asked by his commanding officer.
“You will not grow old, age will not weary, the years condemn. We will remember you – onward friend,” Lieutenant Colonel Hugh McAslan said.
As his coffin was taken away, members of the infantry regiment gave a final salute., while his own 2nd 1st Battalion performed a haka.
Both of the soldiers injured in the same attack, Lance Corporal Matthew Ball and Private Allister Baker, were there to pay their respects as the O'Donnell family's very public loss became a part of military history.
Trevor farmer - 20secs –
“Anzac Day will never be the same for us; we will be remembering how Tim, as well as the other sons and daughters of New Zealand and Australia,” Lt O’Donnell’s uncle Trevor Farmer said.
“When you go home today gather your family and tell them that they are loved.”
After the ceremony Lt Timothy O’Donnell's body was taken for a private family service.
3 News