Iraq: Soldier killed in accident

Updated 08.25 Sun Sep 23 2007
Keywords: soldier, Mark Stansfield, forklift accident

A British soldier has been killed in a forklift truck accident at an air base in Iraq, the Ministry of Defence said.

Sergeant Mark Stansfield, 32, who was soon to be a father - was serving with 32 Close Support Squadron, UK Logistic Battalion, based at Basra Air Station.

Sgt Stansfield, who lived in Oxfordshire with his pregnant wife, was conducting security checks at a supply point to the base when the accident happened on Wednesday

Sgt Stansfield, who lived in Oxfordshire with his pregnant wife, was conducting security checks at a supply point to the base when the accident happened on Wednesday.

He was flown to Selly Oak hospital in Birmingham for further treatment after being operated on at the base's field medical facility.

But his condition deteriorated shortly after being transferred and he died at the hospital.

His commanding officer in Iraq, Lieutenant Colonel David Roberts described Sgt Stansfield as "a first class soldier" with a "bright career ahead of him."

Defence Secretary Des Browne said: "I was deeply sorry to learn about the loss of Sergeant Stansfield, a hugely brave, dedicated and ambitious soldier who will be sorely missed."

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