British Soldier Named

Tributes have been paid to a soldier killed in an explosion in Afghanistan on Monday.
Rifleman Aidan Howell, who was born in Sidcup, Kent, was nicknamed "Sunshine Boy", his family said in a statement.

"We cannot begin to express the total and utter devastation we feel at the loss of our beautiful son Aidan," they said.

"He may be recognised as a hero now, but to his family and everyone who was lucky enough to know him, he was already a hero.

"Aidan was a big Leeds United fan and even met the players, his heroes, before he left for Afghanistan."

The 19-year-old, from 3rd Battalion, The Rifles, was killed by an improvised explosive device while patrolling in the Kajaki area of Helmand province.

His death takes the number of British service personnel killed in the conflict to 244, including 107 this year alone.

Lieutenant Colonel Nick Kitson, commanding officer of 3 Rifles Battle Group, said: "His loss is a tragedy and he goes to join a line of gallant Riflemen who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of their country and their mates out here in Afghanistan.

"Those who remain here will take strength from his courage and dedication and will honour his memory always."


HERO






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