Some Gave All: Marine David Fairbrother

September 21, 2011

It is with sadness that the Ministry of Defence must confirm that Marine David Fairbrother, of Kilo Company, 42 Commando Royal Marines, was killed in Afghanistan on 19 September 2011.

Marine David Fairbrother. Picture: via MOD

Early on the morning of 19 September 2011, Marine Fairbrother deployed as part of Combined Force Nahr-e Saraj in support of an Afghan National Army (ANA) patrol into the village of Old Khorgajat.

Just under two hours into the patrol they were engaged with small arms fire from close range and Marine Fairbrother was fatally wounded. Despite the best efforts of his colleagues to administer first aid, Marine Fairbrother died of his wounds.

Marine David Fairbrother

Marine David Fairbrother was born on 23 February 1987 and grew up in Blackburn with his mother, Julie, and sisters, Ruth and Emily. He attended Queen Elizabeth Grammar School where he completed three A-levels in Geography, Geology and Classical Civilisation before studying a BSc degree in Geography at Leeds University.

Marine Fairbrother joined the Royal Marines on 2 November 2009 and was passed fit for duty on 10 September 2010. He was drafted to 42 Commando Royal Marines where he joined Kilo Company, 'The Black Knights', and immediately began pre-deployment training for Operation HERRICK 14.

He enthusiastically immersed himself in training, and qualified as a Team Medic; a responsibility which he assumed with characteristic diligence and professionalism. His sharp mind and strong soldiering skills made him a natural choice for training as a member of an All Arms Search Team, seeing him conduct numerous compound clearances at significant risk in order to ensure the safety of his comrades.

Mne Fairbrother was a highly motivated Royal Marine who was excelling in his first appointment and had aspirations to specialise in the Landing Craft branch on his return from operations. His passion for testing himself both physically and mentally was epitomised by his hobbies of Skydiving and Waterpolo. He was a Marine with great potential who will be sorely missed.

Mne Fairbrother's mother, Julie Fairborother, said:

"David, not only are you the sunshine of my life but you were a devoted, beautiful and giving son. I am so proud of the determination you had to become a Royal Marine. You were always fun loving, caring and lived life to the full. Not only were you the perfect son but you were my best friend and you will be in my thoughts forever.

"I love you with all of my heart, Mum xxx"

Ruth, Mne Fairbrother's older sister, and Craig, Ruth's boyfriend, said:

"'Commando Humour' is one of our favourite Marine values to describe you, David. You lived life to the absolute maximum, and we could not help but be so proud of you.

"You had such a joy for life and so many plans for your future that involved both your career as a Marine, but most importantly, for your friends and family.

"There are no words to describe the heartbreak. It hurts so much inside to think we won't see you again. We love you so much.

"Our little brother, all our love, Ruthie and Craig xx"

Emily, Mne Fairbrother's younger sister, said:

"My brother, my best friend, my hero. The life and soul of every party. I will miss your silly antics and all the banter we shared.

"I am so proud of everything you have done in your life, especially becoming a Royal Marine. Thanks to your encouragement and guidance I have enjoyed so many things; waterpolo, swimming and skydiving are but a few. You will be in my thoughts forever.

"Love you always, miss you. xxx Emily xxx"

Melissa, Mne Fairbrother's girlfriend, said:

"Dave - I am so glad I met you. You have changed my life in so many ways and I will cherish our time together forever.

"Love always - Is brea i gcónaí. Melissa xxx"

Go here, spend some time and get to know this British Fallen Hero through the hearts of those who know and love him.

Rest in peace, Sir.

Always remembered and honoured.