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Tributes are paid to RIR soldier killed in Afghanistan

Tributes are paid to RIR soldier killed in Afghanistan

Tributes have been paid to Ranger Aaron McCormick who died in Afghanistan while serving with the Royal Irish Regiment. He was 22.

Ranger McCormick came from Coleraine.

He died in an explosion while on duty in Helmand province. Ranger McCormick had been helping to clear an area of improvised explosive devices when he was caught by a blast.

His commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel Colin Weir paid tribute to the young soldier.

He said: “Ranger Aaron McCormick was the epitome of the Irish infantry soldier: tough, selfless, good-humoured and full of compassion.

Lt. Col. Weir said the death had left “a gap in our ranks which no ordinary man could fill.”

He added: “Today, we have a heavy heart. Tomorrow, in his honour and because it is right, his brother Rangers will steel themselves once again, will step out on patrol and face down the enemy.”

Defence secretary Liam Fox added his tribute to Ranger McCormick: “I was saddened to hear of the death of Ranger Aaron McCormick. He has been described by his coleagues and commanders as a courageous soldier who was always willing to put himself in harm’s way to protest his colleagues when on patrol.”

He added: “My thoughts and prayers go to his family and friends at this tragic time. He will be remembered and his sacrifice will not be forgotten.”

 

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