A Warrington soldier who died after being shot in Afghanistan has been described as the "perfect marine".
Steven James Birdsall was shot on Sunday and immediately evacuated to a field hospital in critical condition.
The 296th member of the UK Armed Forces to die in Afghanistan since 2001, he died the following day in Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham after succumbing to his wounds.
The 20-year-old, from Bravo Company, 40 Commando Royal Marines, was providing security to Royal Engineers at a UK check points in Sangin, when he was shot by insurgents.
His family said: "There are no words that could ever express the heartache of losing our beautiful son, Steven, who was always so selfless, brave and fearless.
"Steven had so many friends back home in Warrington and in 40 Commando Royal Marines, and we are forever thankful to the lads who were with him when he needed them most."
The 20-year-old Marine was deployed to Afghanistan in April 2010.
Commanding officer Lieutenant Colonel Paul James described him as the "perfect marine".
He said: "Marine Steven Birdsall was a brilliant young marine whose gallantry, selflessness and determination impressed all who knew him.
"He was strong, brave, full of spirit and full of character.
"He was a consummate professional; forever focused, very proud and utterly dependable; yet always cheerful and magnanimous.
"He sadly died on patrol in northern Sangin, doing the job he loved; protecting the people.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with his parents, his sister, his family and his friends.
"He will be sadly missed by all in 40 Commando. Marine Steven Birdsall was, and always will be, a Royal Marine Commando."
Fears grow for missing Liverpool teen
(Thu 09/02)
Liverpool youth charged over bomb scare
(Tue 07/02)
Post a comment