Soldier killed in Helmand named

Fusilier Petero Suesue was killed in an attack on Friday

A British soldier shot dead on foot patrol in Afghanistan has been named by the Ministry of Defence as Fusilier Petero "Pat" Suesue.

The 28-year-old, was born in Fiji but lived in Hounslow, west London with his wife. He was a member of 2nd Battalion The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers.

He was killed near the town of Sangin in Helmand Province, on Friday.

His death brought the number of British service personnel killed in Afghanistan since operations began in 2001 to 160.

Fusilier Suesue joined the Army in 2002.

His family paid tribute to him in a statement: "Petero epitomised the qualities of the Fijian Fusilier. He was strong yet gentle, compassionate and always willing to support those around him.

"It is with great sadness that Petero will no longer be with us in body, however, he leaves behind a legacy of love and affection in the memories of all who knew and loved him."

'Heavy price'

Fusilier Suesue had spent previous tours in Northern Ireland, Iraq and Afghanistan.

He was also a keen rugby player and represented the infantry team on a tour of South Africa in 2004.

I understand that he was greatly respected by everyone who met him Defence Secretary John Hutton

His commanding officer Lt Col Charlie Calder said the regiment had paid "a heavy price" with his death.

"However, all of us know that this is as nothing compared to the loss sustained by his wife Emalaini and his family back in Fiji," he said.

"It is some small recompense to know that he died a brave soldier amongst friends."

Defence Secretary John Hutton said he was "deeply saddened" to hear of the death of Fusilier Suesue.

"I understand that he was greatly respected by everyone who met him," he said.

"His loss will be keenly felt by all those who knew him and I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family, comrades and friends."