MoD names dead soldier
Fri Oct 23 2009 23:57:32
Tributes have been paid to a soldier killed in Afghanistan on Thursday. Corporal James Oakland of the Royal Military Police, died from wounds sustained whilst on a foot patrol in the Gereshk region of Helmand Province.
He was mortally wounded by an exploding Improvised Explosive Device whilst conducting a route search.
Lieutenant Colonel Gareth Bex, Commanding Officer of the Counter IED Task Force said: "Corporal James Oakland was an excellent soldier, a natural leader and extremely well thought of by all ranks. He was an inspiring character and his loss will be felt keenly across our close knit community.
"He always sought additional responsibility and had a very bright future ahead of him. His personal example and dedication is an inspiration to us all. At this sad time our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and loved ones."
Corporal Oakland is survived by his parents Steve and Christine and a brother, who is in his final term at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst.
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Tributes have been paid to Corporal James Oakland who died from wounds sustained whilst on a foot patrol in Helmand Province.
