The British Army soldier who died in a training accident in Iraq has been named as Lance Corporal James Freeman. The 29-year-old father-of-one, from 1st Battalion, The Royal Anglian Regiment, died in northern Iraq on Sunday during a routine training exercise as part of Operation Shader, the mission against so-called Islamic State.
The Ministry of Defence confirmed his death, stating: 'It is with great sadness that we confirm the death of Lance Corporal James Freeman, who died on 31 May following a tragic accident during routine military training activity whilst deployed on Operation SHADER, Iraq. He was 29 years old. Our thoughts are with Lance Corporal Freeman's family, friends and Regiment at this devastating time.' Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer also paid tribute in Parliament on Wednesday.
LCpl Freeman joined the Army in June 2016 and served in roles including rifleman, machine gunner and Section Second in Command. He deployed on operations in South Sudan, contributed to the national COVID response, and served in the Falklands, Jordan, Romania and Kenya. Colonel James Bishop, commander of Operation Shader, described him as 'larger than life and magnetically charming', adding that his absence leaves 'a profound, irreplaceable void'.
Lieutenant Colonel Nick McGinley, Commanding Officer of The Vikings, said LCpl Freeman had 'a bright future ahead of him' and was 'everything you could wish for in a junior leader'. Major James Pugh noted that his daughter was his 'greatest pride', while Captain Daniel Bradnam called him his 'go-to man', praising his 'steadfast dependability' and 'quick-witted humour'.
The MoD said LCpl Freeman was a lover of the outdoors and enjoyed gaming, but above all was a devoted family man. Tributes from colleagues consistently highlighted his professionalism, humour and loyalty.
