Condolences: Ben Ford

PRIVATE Ben Ford, aged 18, from Chesterfield, north Derbyshire, was killed when the vehicle he was travelling in was caught in an explosion in southern Afghanistan.
By The Newsroom
Published 7th Sep 2007, 10:02 BST
Updated 7th Sep 2007, 10:22 BST

Ben, a soldier in the 2nd Battalion, The Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters), was on a routine patrol in Helmand province.

His collegues paid him these tributes.

"Private Ford was a tremendous young soldier - fit and enthusiastic, hard-working and committed to his comrades and a career in the Army."

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Lieutenant Colonel Simon Banton, Commanding Officer of 2nd Battalion, The Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters).

"This was his first operational tour of duty in Afghanistan and one that he relished. He was proud to be member of a close-knit team, company and family regiment.

"Young on paper, at the age of only 18; however in life he was mature beyond his years in attitude, bearing and ability."

Major Paul "Shove" Gilby, Officer Commanding C Company.

"He was always up for a laugh, the life and soul of any party.

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"My thoughts are with his family and girlfriend, Tasha, at this sad time. Fordy was a close friend and a career soldier in a job he loved. He will be missed by me and all that knew him."

Close friend Private Scott Barber.

If you would like to pay tribute to Ben, post your comment in the box below.

Related topics:ChesterfieldDerbyshireAfghanistan