MoD name soldier killed in ambush
Guardsman Jamie Janes was killed in an explosion on Monday
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By Adam Leveridge. |  |
Wednesday, 07, Oct 2009 12:23
By Richard James.
A British soldier killed in an explosion during an ambush in southern Afghanistan has been named by the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
Guardsman Jamie Janes, of 1st Battalion The Grenadier Guards, was on foot patrol near to Nad Ali District Centre in central Helmand province when he was killed in the blast on Monday morning.
Three of his colleagues were also wounded in the blast which was followed by an insurgent ambush.
Guardsman Janes died en route to hospital following the conclusion of fighting.
Lieutenant Colonel Roly Walker, commanding officer of the Grenadier Guards Battle Group, paid tribute to Guardsman Janes in a statement released by the MoD.
He said: "Jamie was a soldier to his heart, and a friend to all. He knew the dangers he would face in Afghanistan but he had the courage to keep soldiering.
"He stood tall amongst his fellow men as an experienced hand who willingly stepped forward to take on the difficult task of clearing routes, and he gave the less experienced soldiers in his section huge confidence.
"He leaves behind a strong impression and his memory will inspire us. I am hugely proud of him, and humbled by his sacrifice."
Defence secretary Bob Ainsworth added: "I was very sorry to learn of the death of Guardsman Jamie Janes, a soldier who I'm told had given exemplary service since joining the Army at 16 and had a promising career ahead of him.
"He had already shown his bravery, professionalism and dependability on a previous tour of Afghanistan and was an integral part of his company. He also clearly cared deeply about his family and my thoughts are with them at this very sad time."
Since operation began in Afghanistan eight years ago, 220 British service personnel have been killed.