Soldier died retrieving comrade
A British soldier who died while trying to retrieve the body of an Afghan comrade has been named.
Private Jason Williams, 23, of Worcester, died after an explosion on Saturday east of Gereshk in Helmand province, the MoD said.
The soldier, from 2nd Battalion The Mercian Regiment, was described as a "loving and caring son and brother".
Lt Col Simon Banton, commanding officer of 2nd Battalion The Mercian Regiment, hailed Pte Williams's bravery....
On the day of his death, Pte Williams' platoon was securing an area following an attack in which three Afghan soldiers died.
'Caring son'
His family issued a statement which said: "Jason was a loving and caring son and brother.
"The Army gave him a sense of purpose and enthusiasm for life which stretched beyond the boundaries of his work. We are so proud of Jason and we will miss him every day."
Lt Col Simon Banton, commanding officer of 2nd Battalion The Mercian Regiment, said no mission or task was too great for Pte Williams.
He added: "On the day he died Jason was taking part in an action which adhered to every soldier's oldest code: leave no man behind.
"His brave determination and commitment to his brothers in arms ensured that the Afghan warrior's family are able to pay their proper respects to their own fallen son."...
Read more at the BBC here.
And from the MoD:
Lieutenant Colonel Simon Banton said
"For his selfless sacrifice, ANA Warriors now refer to Jason as a hero. He will be remembered by the MERCIAN Regiment with honour and by his mates for his irrepressible smile. Our prayers are with his family who are devastated by his loss."
Major Paddy Ginn, Officer Commanding A (Grenadier Company), said:
"Pte Jason Williams turned up to A Company at the start of pre-deployment training for Afghanistan. He had an eagerness and enthusiastic approach to the Army. No matter what he did he always had a smile on his face. He loved socialising around his home town of Worcester, and was always keen to share his tales of his nights out with other members of the company.
"He was part of 2 Platoon, A (Grenadier) Company, based at FOB KEENAN. He quickly adapted to this new challenge and was an important part of the team. He was well liked and proved to be very popular member of the company.
"He was a constant source of morale and always lifted the spirits of others, no matter what the situation was. He died doing the job he loved and he was killed while helping in the recovery of other casualties. He will be sorely missed and will always be remembered.
"He was a true Grenadier and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends throughout this very difficult time."
Major Sam Plant, Officer Commanding C Squadron Group, Light Dragoons, said:
"In Pte Jason Williams, the FOB KEENAN Team has lost a true star - he was an all-rounder. What was most striking was the high regard in which he was held by his peers and seniors alike.
"As a soldier, he was forward leaning and dynamic and he showed a depth of understanding of the bigger picture in Afghanistan that belied his relative lack of experience. This maturity and intelligence helped him undertake tasks, both exciting and mundane, with equal determination and an unquenchable desire to succeed.
"He was also a great friend and support to everyone. His cheerful and positive approach to life was infectious and he quickly became central to the morale of his Platoon. Pte Williams was synonymous with laugher and happiness.
"Pte Williams was a shining star with an exceptionally bright future. He was a natural soldier and a leader of the future possessing intelligence, common sense, team spirit and courage in abundance....(here)
And the heavens weep, as they welcome a hero Home. Rest in peace, Private Williams. My thoughts and prayers for all who love this young British hero.
1 comment:
Thank you for bringing this to our attention, Brat. My prayers are with this fine soldier and his family.
Post a Comment