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13/06/2006
MoD names soldier killed in Iraq
The first British soldier to be killed in Afghanistan has been named as Captain Jim Philippson.
The 29-year-old from St Albans in Hertfordshire served with 7 Parachute Regiment Royal Horse Artillery.
Capt Philippson was killed when a mobile patrol was engaged in a firefight against suspected Taliban forces in the Helmand Province in southern Afghanistan on June 11.
Two other soldiers were also injured during the battle.
Capt Philippson joined the Army in 2001, after graduating from Plymouth University.
Following his course at the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst, he was commissioned into the Royal Artillery later that year.
Lieutenant Colonel David Hammond, Capt Philippson's Commanding Officer, said: "Jim was a top quality officer in the best traditions of the regiment and the British Army. Those around him were influenced not only by his commitment, passion and drive, but also his enthusiasm and ready wit. A gifted commander, he had the self-confidence of an assured professional, yet was also modest and willing to learn.
"All of this earned him the respect of all those he touched. The commitment he showed to his task in Afghanistan and every challenge he undertook was an inspiration.
"He was a rising star in every sense who had a huge amount to offer. He is a tremendous loss and our thoughts are with his family and many friends at this very difficult time."
Capt Philippson's father, Anthony, also paid tribute to his son, whom he described as "wonderful and brave." He said: "It's what he lived for. It's our only consolation.
"He was killed doing exactly what he wanted to do. He could never have worked behind a desk."
Defence Secretary Des Browne said: "I wish to express my sincere condolences to the families and friends of those killed and injured in this attack. My thoughts are with them and those troops continuing their difficult task of helping to ensure Afghanistan remains secure."
(KMcA)
The 29-year-old from St Albans in Hertfordshire served with 7 Parachute Regiment Royal Horse Artillery.
Capt Philippson was killed when a mobile patrol was engaged in a firefight against suspected Taliban forces in the Helmand Province in southern Afghanistan on June 11.
Two other soldiers were also injured during the battle.
Capt Philippson joined the Army in 2001, after graduating from Plymouth University.
Following his course at the Royal Military Academy at Sandhurst, he was commissioned into the Royal Artillery later that year.
Lieutenant Colonel David Hammond, Capt Philippson's Commanding Officer, said: "Jim was a top quality officer in the best traditions of the regiment and the British Army. Those around him were influenced not only by his commitment, passion and drive, but also his enthusiasm and ready wit. A gifted commander, he had the self-confidence of an assured professional, yet was also modest and willing to learn.
"All of this earned him the respect of all those he touched. The commitment he showed to his task in Afghanistan and every challenge he undertook was an inspiration.
"He was a rising star in every sense who had a huge amount to offer. He is a tremendous loss and our thoughts are with his family and many friends at this very difficult time."
Capt Philippson's father, Anthony, also paid tribute to his son, whom he described as "wonderful and brave." He said: "It's what he lived for. It's our only consolation.
"He was killed doing exactly what he wanted to do. He could never have worked behind a desk."
Defence Secretary Des Browne said: "I wish to express my sincere condolences to the families and friends of those killed and injured in this attack. My thoughts are with them and those troops continuing their difficult task of helping to ensure Afghanistan remains secure."
(KMcA)
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