Fallen soldier due to arrive back in the UK

[dutchman]

The body of a Warwickshire soldier killed in Afghanistan is due to arrive back in the country later.



22-year old Private Conrad Lewis – who was part of the 4th Battalion, the Parachute Regiment – was shot as he carried out a foot patrol in the Nad ‘Ali district of Helmand Province on 9th February.

Another Paratrooper - Private Lewis Hendry – was also hit and despite a helicopter being scrambed both men died of their injuries.

Their coffins and that of another serviceman are due to arrive at RAF Lyneham this lunchtime before being driven through the town of Wootton Bassett.

Paying tribute, Private Lewis’ family said:

“Conrad was an outstanding young man, with a character the depth of which you only truly find out in these sad circumstances. He was a warm-hearted, funny, kind, loving, handsome and clearly a brave young man.

“It is a cliché to say that everyone loved him, but they did, from people of his own generation to adults of all generations. If you met Conrad you were touched by him and he made you feel good about life. He had a smile that literally could light up a room, change your mood for the day and a hug that made you feel loved and safe, which he never shied away from giving, regardless of the time, place or audience.

“He wanted to be a soldier – he wanted to be a Para – and he served the Regiment and his nation with the spirit and vigour that he approached everything in life, full on and without fear or restraint.

Private Lewis also leaves his girlfriend of three years, George.

No details have yet been released about Private Lewis’ funeral.