British fatality in Afghanistan: James Dwyer. (updated)

The Ministry of Defence has announced the death of Lance Bombardier James Dwyer in Afghanistan on 27th December, the 44th British fatality of the campaign.

The soldier, from 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery, was killed during a reconnaissance mission in the desert to the south of Garmsir, in which a vehicle was involved in an explosion resulting in one fatality, one serious injury and two minor injuries. At this stage it is too early to say what caused the explosion but there were no Taliban in the vicinity and there was no follow on contact.

The Ministry of Defence also wrote:

James Dwyer was born and raised in South Africa before joining the Army in July 2003. Having completed his basic and specialist military training, he joined 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery in June 2004.

Upon successful completion of the Commando Course, he was posted to, and subsequently deployed on operations with, 7 (Sphinx) Commando Battery Royal Artillery, based in Arbroath, Scotland.

Lance Bombardier Dwyer, known as ‘Doobs’ to his friends and colleagues, was a professionally outstanding soldier and had already shown the potential for a long and successful career in the Military.

He was enormously proud of being both a Commando and a Junior Non-Commissioned Officer. Respected by his superiors, peers and subordinates alike, he took his responsibilities very seriously and was always quick to mentor those less experienced than him.

James had proven himself a versatile and dedicated soldier whilst deployed on exercises both in the UK and Norway, as well as on operations in Afghanistan.

A bright and intelligent young man with an infectious sense of humour, Lance Bombardier Dwyer could be relied upon to be at the forefront of any activity. He had a passion for worldwide travel and the excitement of visiting new countries. He was also an enthusiastic sportsman; excelling at squash in particular, for which he represented both the Royal Artillery and the Army.

Very much a family man, James spoke often of home and was especially close to his sister, also a serving soldier in the British Army.

Tags: Afghanistan, James Dwyer