The Ministry of Defence has confirmed the identity of the British soldier who tragically lost his life during a training accident in Iraq on Sunday. He was 29-year-old Lance Corporal James Freeman of the Royal Anglian Regiment.
A Dedicated Soldier
Lance Corporal Freeman, described by his superiors as a 'dedicated and experienced' soldier, had served in the British Army for a decade. Since February 2017, he had been a member of the 1st Battalion of the Royal Anglian Regiment, famously known as The Vikings.
He was deployed to Iraq as part of Operation SHADER, the ongoing mission to support allies in the Middle East combating the so-called Islamic State. The fatal accident occurred on Sunday.
Prior to his Middle East deployment, Lance Corporal Freeman contributed to the national response to the COVID-19 pandemic. His service also took him to South Sudan, the Falkland Islands, Jordan, Romania, and Kenya.
A Highly Skilled Soldier
Lance Corporal Freeman was a highly skilled soldier who served as a rifleman, mortarman, and machine gunner. He was appointed Section Second In Command within the Assault Pioneer Platoon, a role in which he was 'deeply invested'.
The MoD announced his death on Wednesday, accompanied by a wave of tributes from senior officers, commanding officers, and fellow soldiers.
Colonel James WHM Bishop, Commander of British Forces in Operation SHADER, said: 'His absence leaves a profound, irreplaceable void, and he will be missed beyond measure by everyone who had the privilege to serve alongside him.'
Major James SD Pugh, commanding officer of Norfolk Company, described him as 'the very essence of a Viking soldier' and a highly regarded member of the Regiment. 'Beyond his military excellence, Lance Corporal Freeman was a devoted husband and father. His greatest pride was his daughter, and the simple walks to and from school were the moments he cherished most each day,' Major Pugh added.
