MoD names dead soldiers as Cpl Stephen Thompson and L/Cpl Tom Keogh

MoD names dead soldiers as Cpl Stephen Thompson and L/Cpl Tom Keogh
MoD names dead soldiers as Cpl Stephen Thompson and L/Cpl Tom Keogh
 
 

Tuesday, 09, Mar 2010 06:04

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has named two soldiers killed in Afghanistan as Corporal Stephen Thompson and Lance Corporal Tom Keogh.

Cpl Thompson, 31, from 1st Battalion The Rifles was killed in Afghanistan on Sunday as a result of an explosion in the Sangin district, in Helmand province.

He leaves behind his mother and father, Carol and Peter, brother, Philip, sisters, Claire and Helen, and his son, Ewan.

His parents said: "We are so very proud of our son Stephen and all that he achieved. He lived life to the full and died doing the job he loved.

"He will be sorely missed by his mum and dad, brother and sisters, his son, Ewan, and all of those who had the pleasure of knowing him. Always in our hearts."

Lieutenant Colonel Nick Kitson, Commanding Officer 3 Rifles Battle Group, added: "In the short time he was with us, Cpl Thomson had made a lasting impact. His loss is another blow to this Battle Group and our nation but we shall continue his noble work undaunted. He will be sorely missed by those in 2 Platoon but also across the whole Battle Group.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his son Ewan, his parents and his loved ones. We know that they will remember him as we do, with pride and nothing but admiration."

L/Cpl Keogh from 4th Battalion The Rifles (4 Rifles), part of the 3 Rifles Battle Group, was also killed in Afghanistan on Sunday. He was killed by a gunshot wound during a small arms engagement in Sangin, Helmand province.

The 24-year-old was from Paddington in London and leaves behind his parents and two brothers.

His parents, Lawrence and Marion Keogh, said: "Tom was our eldest son and we all loved and admired him greatly. He loved the Army life and lived his life to the full. He brought laughter and happiness to our home and all who knew him.

"Our family has been left devastated by Tom's tragic death, but not a day will pass without us remembering the happiness and pride he gave us. We love you Tom."

Colour Serjeant Kevin Gaghan, Reconnaissance Platoon Second in Command 4 Rifles, added: "I have had the pleasure to have known Tom for a long time. When he rejoined the Army last year I was delighted to learn that he was returning to the Recce Platoon. Tom had an infectious appetite for soldiering which brings everyone else's game to a higher level.

"I've lost a fantastic soldier and a great friend. Rest in peace mate."


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