Soldier killed on New Year's Eve

The Army bomb disposal expert who died after an explosion in Afghanistan on New Year's Eve has been named by the Ministry of Defence.

Sapper David Watson, from 33 Engineer Regiment, was killed while helping to clear improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

It happened near the British Patrol Base Blenheim in the Sangin region of Helmand province.

In a statement, the 23 year old's family said he was a "true hero" who had "lived his dream" as a soldier.

"The Army was his career which he loved the most and his achievements whilst serving in the Army show his genuine commitment and determination to serve his country proud," they said.

"He always managed to achieve above and beyond the goals that he set for himself, often going that extra mile to achieve beyond the bounds of what was expected of him."

His commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Gareth Bex described him as "fearless, ruthlessly determined and a great team player".

"I am humbled and inspired by the courage and resolve men like him show every day in ridding Afghanistan of the threat from IEDs," he said.

"The counter IED battle is tough and ongoing, but he knew that we are making steady progress.

"This success is due to the courage and deeds of men like Sapper Watson."

Improvised explosive devices are one of the greatest threats to British troops in Afghanistan.

They are thought to have caused about three-quarters of the UK deaths in the country last year.

Sapper Watson's loss takes the number of British service personnel who have died since the start of operations in Afghanistan in 2001 to 245, including 108 in 2009


www.britainsheroes.co.uk