A SOLDIER from Doncaster has just returned from a challenging six months in Afghanistan to be awarded an Operational Service Medal.
Redcap Corporal Luke Langton deployed with his colleagues from 101 Provost Company of the Royal Military Police to provide police support to the more than 7,000 UK personnel based there.
Luke, aged 21, who lives in Misterton, was based in Kandahar, which involved extended periods spent on the ground with long-range patrols with units such as the Gurkhas and Paras.
He said of his experiences: "Working with the 1st Battalion, the Royal Gurkha Rifles, was one of the best things; an amazing opportunity.
"We also worked with the 3rd Battalion, the Parachute Regiment, mainly around Kandahar but also in Maywand district, which is in the western part of the province.
"We were the first coalition forces to enter Maywand, so there was a real sense of achievement."
Luke, who is a former pupil of South Axholme School in Epworth, had trained as a chef before he joined the Army in 2004.
He is currently based in Germany.
"Being involved in heavy contacts while on patrol with the infantry was probably one of the worst memories for me," he added.
Family and friends travelled from the UK for the colourful 'welcome home' parade, where campaign medals were presented.
"I'm looking forward to spending time with friends and family again.
"My girlfriend and I have planned a trip to Cancun to chill out," said Luke.
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