The Corps of Royal Engineers


Picture of Tpr Andrew Howarth

 

Trooper Andrew Howarth, 20, of The Queen's Royal Lancers, died alongside a soldier from the Royal Engineers in an explosion in the Lashkar Gah district of Helmand Province on Saturday 18th September, 2010. Trooper Howarth, from Bournemouth, Dorset, was killed when his Jackal armoured vehicle was targeted by a Taliban roadside bomb as he took part in a patrol to prevent insurgent activity.He was the third generation of his family to serve in the same regiment.
He leaves behind his parents, John and Sarah, and his elder brother Marcus.
His family said in a statement: "He was a very loving son who loved his family and friends. He would light up any room when he walked in and would do anything for anyone. He had a heart of gold and will be deeply missed.
"He was proud to serve his country. He quoted before he left for Afghanistan 'We give our today so you can have your tomorrow'."
The soldier, who was trained as a reconnaissance vehicle driver, was a keen sportsman who represented his regiment at rugby.
His comrades affectionately nicknamed him Steptoe because of his scruffy appearance.
Lieutenant Colonel Martin Todd, Commanding Officer of The Queen's Royal Lancers, praised Trooper Howarth's "irrepressible enthusiasm, determination and good humour".
He said: "He died amongst his friends in a noble cause, serving his Regiment and his country, while protecting the Afghan people."
Major Ben Cossens, officer commanding Fondouk Squadron of The Queen's Royal Lancers, said: "It is an absolute tragedy that such a fine man should be taken from us so early."
Defence Secretary Liam Fox said: "Trooper Howarth was a dedicated, professional soldier, and an accomplished sportsman, whose enthusiasm and huge character will be greatly missed by all his colleagues.
"My thoughts are with his family and friends at this most difficult time."

 

Added by: Courtesy of the Daily Telegraph on 2 November 2010.

 

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Royal Engineers

"To maintain the objects of the Association by promoting and supporting the Corps, affording assistance to its members and their dependants, and making donations to Army charities"

The Royal Engineers Association was formed under the conditions of a Deed of Declaration of Trust by the amalgamation of the original Royal Engineers Association and the Royal Engineers Benevolent Fund Ltd on 19 November 1968.

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