Rifleman Aminiasi Toge killed in Afghanistan

Rifleman Peter White, fellow Rifleman, said:

"Rifleman Toge was the easiest bloke to make friends with and, when I was told that we would be in the same platoon, I was really pleased.

"For three months we had neighbouring bedspaces and spent time in the sangars where he would tell me all about his home, his family and his faith in God.

"I learnt a lot about him as a person and his family. I know that he loved his sisters dearly and he talked about home so much that I want to go to Fiji.

" 'Togey' was always smiling and always had morale, but most of all he never complained, not even about his difficult job which he did as capably and with more enthusiasm than anyone.

"Everyone in 11 Platoon is going to miss his giggling and soft voice. My thoughts and prayers are with his mother, sisters, brother and his father whom he talked about so much and loved so very much. Take care, Togey, miss you mate."

Rifleman Kyle Kalakoda, fellow Rifleman, said:

"Rifleman Toge was a shy guy whom I met when I first came to the Battalion. He showed me the ins and outs, even though he had not been in the Army that long himself.

"To me he was like the big brother I never had, his advice would range from soldiering to day to day living of life.

"He was a tremendous person with a big, big heart and he will be sorely missed by me, the lads and even my girlfriend whom he knew really well.

"Rest in peace my friend, your smile and humour will never be forgotten."

Rifleman Wilhelm Louw, fellow Rifleman, said:

"Rifleman Toge, you were my Christian friend and all I can say is thanks to God for the privilege of knowing you these past five months.

"There is only one verse I can read today, the one you showed me: For I consider the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is going to be revealed to us. Romans 8:18.

"I know you are sitting in the presence of God and one day I will see you up there my friend. Thanks for everything and my prayers are with you and your family."

Rifleman Robert Gatward, fellow Rifleman, said:

"Our hearts have swollen with your loss. Without you here to sing and laugh with your mates, we will never be the same. March to heaven and help guide us through these dark times. Never forget us as we shall never forget you."

Rifleman Sovita Turagabeci and Rifleman Jotame Tagicakibau, Fijian brothers and fellow Riflemen, said:

"Rifleman Aminiasi Toge was a true Christian by his belief and his actions. He loved to help people and was like an older brother to Fijians joining the Battalion, ready to put an arm around them and give them advice.

"He loved socialising and was friendly to everyone. He was always laughing and making the people around him laugh.

"He loved his job and of course he loved rugby, which he played fast and hard. We are certain that his family will miss him very much, especially this Christmas when he was due to go back to Fiji to spend it with them.

"Rifleman Toge will also be missed by many people in the Battalion, every Fijian amongst them, including us.

"We called each other Naita, a Fijian greeting showing respect and friendship for each other and for Rifleman Toge's home province Kadavu and ours Lomaiviti. Aminiasi, you were a hero, see you in heaven. Moce mada Naita"

Secretary of State for Defence, Bob Ainsworth MP, said:

"I was deeply saddened to hear of the death of Rifleman Aminiasi Toge, who was by all accounts a strong, brave and popular soldier with a promising career ahead of him.

"Rifleman Toge had hoped to secure a promotion on his return from operations and, from what I have been told about him, I have little doubt he would have succeeded.

"My thoughts and deepest sympathies are with all of the family and friends he leaves behind."