Soldier killed in Helmand named

Rifleman William Aldridge was one of the youngest soldiers in Afghanistan

A Herefordshire Rifleman who was one of the youngest soldiers in Afghanistan has been named as one of six killed on Friday.

Rifleman William Aldridge, of Bromyard, joined the Army aged 17 in December 2008 and turned 18 on 23 May.

He was injured in an explosion in Sangin, Helmand Province, and then killed in a second blast as he tried to rescue his comrades.

He leaves behind his mother, Lucy, and two brothers, Georgie and Archie.

He attended Minster College, Leominster, before joining the Army.

'Huge void'

His family said in a statement: "The family can't pay William or his comrades who died with him a big enough tribute.

"He achieved his dreams by becoming a Rifleman and was very aware of the sacrifice he may have to make.

"He will leave a huge void in our lives and always remain the perfect son."

Lieutenant Colonel Rob Thomson MBE, Commanding Officer 2 RIFLES, said he was a "natural field soldier".

He added: "He has stood tall in Sangin - a selfless, capable, thinking Rifleman.

"He was a big going concern and was already ear-marked for more responsibility.

"We will miss him dreadfully and our hearts go out to his beloved family."

Major Alistair Field, Officer Commanding C Company 2 RIFLES, said: "We were injured together in the first explosion.

"We were both injured and in shock together but he comforted me with his patience and kind words.

"Sadly his life was snatched by another explosion on the way back to the [base]."