Menu
03/03/2011
Explosives Sniffer Dog Handler Killed
The Ministry of Defence has confirmed the death of Lance Corporal Liam Tasker, The Royal Army Veterinary Corps, 1st Military Working Dog Regiment, who died in Afghanistan on Tuesday.
Lance Corporal (L/Cpl) Liam Richard Tasker deployed to Afghanistan on 8 September 2010 as part of 1st Military Working Dog Regiment.
On 1 March, LCpl Tasker was taking part in a patrol with his dog, Theo, when they were engaged by small arms fire, during which LCpl Tasker was struck and died from the injuries he sustained and then - on return to Camp Bastion, Theo his dog, suffered a seizure and died, (both pictured).
Having trained as an Arms Explosive Search handler he was attached to 1st Battalion Irish Guards on 19 February 2011.
LCpl Liam Tasker was born on 11 December 1984 in Kirkcaldy, Fife, Scotland. He joined the Army in 2001 and was originally a vehicle mechanic in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. His passion though, was always dogs which led to his transfer to the Royal Army Veterinary Corps in 2007.
A trainer who had a natural empathy with dogs, he was a rising star within the Dog Training group. In 2010, he was posted to 104 Military Working Dog Squadron, St Georges Barracks, North Luffenham, Rutland, part of the 1st Military Working Dog Regiment.
From the onset of his operational tour in Afghanistan, he provided strong search and clearance capability for units across Helmand Province. In a short period of time, he had significant success locating improvised explosive devices, weapons and bomb making equipment. His success undoubtedly saved many lives.
Lance Corporal Tasker was an outgoing, jovial and friendly character. He was extremely popular within the Squadron. His easy going, confident approach belied a consummate professional.
He always strived to be the best and within the Squadron he was one of the best and he will be sorely missed by all in the Squadron. He can never be replaced and will always be remembered. He was a fun, friendly, talkative character who always wanted the best from his dog, his troops, and himself.
He leaves behind his mother Jane Duffy, his father Ian Tasker, his brother Ian and his two sisters, Laura and Nicola, and girlfriend Leah.
Liam's family said: "There are three words that best describe Liam, larger than life. He lit up every room he walked into with his cheeky smile. He was the best son, grandson, brother and friend you could ever wish to meet. He died a hero doing a job he was immensely passionate about. We are so proud of him and everything he's achieved. Words can't describe how sorely he will be missed."
(BMcC/GK)
Lance Corporal (L/Cpl) Liam Richard Tasker deployed to Afghanistan on 8 September 2010 as part of 1st Military Working Dog Regiment.
On 1 March, LCpl Tasker was taking part in a patrol with his dog, Theo, when they were engaged by small arms fire, during which LCpl Tasker was struck and died from the injuries he sustained and then - on return to Camp Bastion, Theo his dog, suffered a seizure and died, (both pictured).
Having trained as an Arms Explosive Search handler he was attached to 1st Battalion Irish Guards on 19 February 2011.
LCpl Liam Tasker was born on 11 December 1984 in Kirkcaldy, Fife, Scotland. He joined the Army in 2001 and was originally a vehicle mechanic in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. His passion though, was always dogs which led to his transfer to the Royal Army Veterinary Corps in 2007.
A trainer who had a natural empathy with dogs, he was a rising star within the Dog Training group. In 2010, he was posted to 104 Military Working Dog Squadron, St Georges Barracks, North Luffenham, Rutland, part of the 1st Military Working Dog Regiment.
From the onset of his operational tour in Afghanistan, he provided strong search and clearance capability for units across Helmand Province. In a short period of time, he had significant success locating improvised explosive devices, weapons and bomb making equipment. His success undoubtedly saved many lives.
Lance Corporal Tasker was an outgoing, jovial and friendly character. He was extremely popular within the Squadron. His easy going, confident approach belied a consummate professional.
He always strived to be the best and within the Squadron he was one of the best and he will be sorely missed by all in the Squadron. He can never be replaced and will always be remembered. He was a fun, friendly, talkative character who always wanted the best from his dog, his troops, and himself.
He leaves behind his mother Jane Duffy, his father Ian Tasker, his brother Ian and his two sisters, Laura and Nicola, and girlfriend Leah.
Liam's family said: "There are three words that best describe Liam, larger than life. He lit up every room he walked into with his cheeky smile. He was the best son, grandson, brother and friend you could ever wish to meet. He died a hero doing a job he was immensely passionate about. We are so proud of him and everything he's achieved. Words can't describe how sorely he will be missed."
(BMcC/GK)
Related UK National News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
22 September 2014
Twenty Dogs Die In East Yorkshire House Fire
Humberside Fire and Rescue have confirmed that twenty dogs have died in a fire in East Yorkshire. It is understood that a fire broke out at the home of a private dog breeder on Graingers Road, Hornsea, at about 19:00 on Saturday.
Twenty Dogs Die In East Yorkshire House Fire
Humberside Fire and Rescue have confirmed that twenty dogs have died in a fire in East Yorkshire. It is understood that a fire broke out at the home of a private dog breeder on Graingers Road, Hornsea, at about 19:00 on Saturday.
13 May 2014
Owners To Face Longer Sentences Over Dog Attacks
Irresponsible dog owners who allow their dog to attack people or assistance dogs will face tougher prison sentences from today, Tuesday. Changes to the Dangerous Dogs Act will also mean dog owners can now face prosecution if their dog attacks a person in their home or on any private property, except if they attack a trespasser.
Owners To Face Longer Sentences Over Dog Attacks
Irresponsible dog owners who allow their dog to attack people or assistance dogs will face tougher prison sentences from today, Tuesday. Changes to the Dangerous Dogs Act will also mean dog owners can now face prosecution if their dog attacks a person in their home or on any private property, except if they attack a trespasser.
06 August 2013
Govt Proposes New Sentencing For Fatal Dog Attacks
New proposals for England and Wales could see owners of dogs that attack and kill face a life sentence in prison. Currently, the maximum sentence is two years for those convicted of allowing a dog to be dangerously out of control. Under proposals put forward by the government, a range of new sentences would be available, from seven years to life.
Govt Proposes New Sentencing For Fatal Dog Attacks
New proposals for England and Wales could see owners of dogs that attack and kill face a life sentence in prison. Currently, the maximum sentence is two years for those convicted of allowing a dog to be dangerously out of control. Under proposals put forward by the government, a range of new sentences would be available, from seven years to life.
11 June 2012
Rise In Attacks On Guide Dogs
Attacks on guide dogs by other dogs have reached a new high of more than eight a month, according to the charity, Guide Dogs.
Rise In Attacks On Guide Dogs
Attacks on guide dogs by other dogs have reached a new high of more than eight a month, according to the charity, Guide Dogs.
09 July 2009
Dangerous Dogs Seized By Police During Raids
Twenty dangerous dogs have been seized by officers in police raids in south London. During the operation - one of the largest of its kind - specialist officers raided the homes of suspected gang members and owners of illegal dogs and seized mostly pit bull terrier type dogs from 12 addresses in Lambeth.
Dangerous Dogs Seized By Police During Raids
Twenty dangerous dogs have been seized by officers in police raids in south London. During the operation - one of the largest of its kind - specialist officers raided the homes of suspected gang members and owners of illegal dogs and seized mostly pit bull terrier type dogs from 12 addresses in Lambeth.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:A dry evening with late sunny spells and some long clear spells overnight. Becoming cloudier across the north towards dawn with a few showers possible. Touch of frost in south. Minimum temperature 0 °C.
