Memorial dedicated to soldier who fell in Afghanistan unveiled near home town in Cheshire

A memorial dedicated to British soldier Jamie Webb, who was killed in Afghanistan, has been unveiled on the 11th anniversary of his death.

Around 100 personnel, veterans, family and friends attended the service next to the war memorial in Handforth, Cheshire.

Lance Corporal Webb grew up nearby, but lost his life on 26 March 2013 in Afghanistan at the age of 24.

His brother Luke said he overcame two brain operations and returned to active duty with the Mercian Regiment following an attack whilst on leave after a tour in Iraq.

He demonstrated exceptional bravery throughout his life.

He deployed twice to Afghanistan as an intelligence analyst and section 2IC. 

Tragically, he died following an insurgent attack on his patrol base just a few days before the end of his second tour in 2013 aged just 24.

A vehicle-borne truck bomb was driven into the perimeter wall at Patrol Base Folad and insurgents attacked the base. The Mercian Regiment's C Company stood firm and returned the fight to the enemy.

'A hero'

LCpl Webb's memorial describes him as a hero who showed unwavering determination - words written by his brother Luke and mother Susan.

His family echoed his remarkable resilience, kindness, and love for his country, calling him an exemplary role model – showcasing the existence of genuine heroes serving the country.

His mother said: "He was such a wonderful son and brother, he was beautiful.

"I loved him with all my heart, and I miss him terribly."

LCpl Webb's company commander, Major (retd) Edward Gaffney, told Forces News: "Jamie was quite the character – he was just that bloke who wouldn’t let morale drop, wouldn’t let anyone feel down, would identify the bloke who was on his own.

"He was a very good soldier, he was an intelligent guy. He worked both as an infantry soldier, we had him in the intel as well because he was a bright bloke."

Corporal Mason Stead, a section commander in 1 Mercian, was in Afghanistan on the day of the attack.

He said: "It was never going to be Jamie, it could never be him. A few days later we got the announcement. It was hard to take in the fact that we did lose him."

The new memorial comes from a promise from his brother Luke that Jamie or fallen soldiers would never be forgotten.