Tributes paid to 'true hero' Falklands veteran Denzil Connick
Tributes have been paid to ex-paratrooper, charity co-founder and Falklands veteran Denzil Connick, who passed away after a battle with cancer.
The former member of 3rd Battalion the Parachute Regiment served as a Lance Corporal during the conflict with Argentina, losing his left leg at the hip after being struck by a mortar round on 13 June 1982.
He was described as a "true warrior" by Veterans Minister Johnny Mercer, who paid tribute to him on social media.
Mr Mercer said: "Denzil Connick was a true warrior for his generation, of veteran's rights.
"A legend of 3 PARA in the Falklands; I pay tribute to his service and all he achieved in supporting his fellow veterans after that conflict."
Stand-up comedian Jim Davidson also paid tribute to the late war hero.
"We are heartbroken to share the news that our friend and colleague, Denzil Connick passed away in the early hours of Sunday morning after a short battle with cancer. RIP Denzil - a true hero," he wrote on Facebook.
Growing up in Chepstow in Monmouthshire, Mr Connick joined the Army as a Junior Leader at the age of 15 and then served for 12 years with 3 PARA.
He was 25 years old and was serving in an anti-tank platoon at the time of the Falklands War.
He later became founding secretary and honorary vice president of the South Atlantic Medal Association, a charity that campaigns for Falklands veterans and helps them and their families return to the islands on a pilgrimage.
The charity said: "It is with great sadness that we learn of the passing of our Co-Founder and Honorary Vice President Denzil Connick BEM.
"His continuous, selfless work for Falklands Veterans was an inspiration and he will be sorely missed."
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