Tributes paid to two recently deceased army men

The Ministry of Defence has confirmed the deaths of two members of the armed forces within four days.

Lance corporal George Partridge died in a tragic diving incident on March 26th at the National Dive Activity Centre, Chepstow.

This was followed by the passing of sergeant Matt Tonroe from the 3rd battalion of the parachute regiment, who was tragically killed by a roadside bomb near the town of Manbij in northern Syria during a night-time operation against IS on March 29th.

Lance corporal Partridge joined the army in 2010, aged 19, and was described as popular, hard-working and a genuine expert in motor transport management.

Sergeant Chris Brignull, who had served with lance corporal Partridge for over two years, said he was “an outstanding character and a great role model for younger sappers within the troop”.

“If I could be half the man he was, I would be proud - he was the best soldier,” added lance corporal Ash Skerten.

Meanwhile, Manchester-born sergeant Tonroe enlisted in the army in 2004 and relished responsibility and the opportunity to contribute and to lead.

Sergeant Tonroe’s commanding officer said his natural and effortless leadership meant he was destined for great things in the unit

“He is already missed. Without Matt, our company has lost some of its humour, some of its warmth and some of its sheer opportunism. We will always remember him,” he added.