In the service of our country - Lance Corporal Tommy Brown

Lance Corporal Tommy Brown
The Parachute Regiment

Lance Corporal Tommy Brown from The Parachute Regiment was killed in Afghanistan on Tuesday 22 December 2009 as a result of a suspected Improvised Explosive Device while on a foot patrol about 1km south of Sangin, central Helmand Province..

Lance Corporal Tommy Brown was a dynamic, optimistic and talented soldier and sportsman for whom no challenge was too great.

He relished responsibility, and was never found wanting. In all that he did, he displayed the easy confidence of a natural leader.

He was enthused by soldiering and proved time and again able to inspire those he commanded to emulate his own rigorous professional standards.

His cheeky grin and easy wit were never far from the surface, especially when things were tough. He died as he lived, leading from the front; the only place that someone like Tommy knew.

A spokesman for the regiment said:

"He gave his life for his comrades and the Parachute Regiment, both of which meant so much to him. His passing is a sad day for us, but every member of the Unit is privileged to have known such a likeable, grounded and utterly professional man. We are deeply honoured to have served alongside him.

''Our thoughts and prayers now turn to his family and friends at this most difficult time. We hope that in the midst of their profound loss, they can draw strength from the fond memories that we all share of this fine man."

EDITOR'S NOTE : British soldiers serving with Special Forces have their roles and contributions shielded from the public, even in death. We regret that we cannot bring you the thoughts of those who fought alongside them. When they have died in the service of their country, we believe they deserve more recognition than they receive. We honour them even though we cannot tell their story.