19/09/2007

British Soldier Killed In Afghanistan Named

The Ministry of Defence has named a British soldier killed in Afghanistan on Monday.

Lance Corporal Ivano Violino, 29, of the 20 Field Squadron, 36 Engineer Regiment in southern Afghanistan was killed when the vehicle he was travelling in was caught in an explosion near Gereshk in the Helmand province in the south of the country.

Another soldier was also injured in the explosion and both were flown by helicopter to the field hospital at Camp Bastion were L/Cpl Violino was pronounced dead. The other soldier's injuries are not thought to be life threatening.

L/Cpl Violino, known as Sean, was born in Salford and joined the Army in January 2002. He took part in Operation TELIC in Iraq in 2003 and was promoted to Lance Corporal in 2004.

He had arrived in Afghanistan on September 2 and was the first fatality from 36 Engineer Regiment.

He was married to wife Katey and had two eight-year-old twins, Ellie and Lewis, from a previous relationship.

Lieutenant Colonel Richard Wardlaw, Commanding Officer 36 Engineer Regiment, described L/Cpl Violino as "the very epitome of a modern professional soldier". He said: "Extremely fit, enthusiastic and exceptionally hard working, he drew respect and praise in equal measure."

Major Gareth Baker, Officer Commanding 20 Field Squadron, said: "Lance Corporal Violino was a dedicated professional with a strong sense of duty and endless enthusiasm for his chosen career.

"I cannot express how deeply shocked all of the squadron have been by this tragic loss so early in our deployment. Our only consolation is that it was typical of his character to volunteer for this mission, fully aware of the risks associated, and he was supporting the squadron effort in the best way he could."

L/Cpl Violino's wife, Katey, said: "Sean will be sadly missed for his infectious enthusiasm for life and his desire to be everyone's friend. He was popular with everyone he met and was loved by friends and family alike. The world is a poorer place without Sean."

Defence Secretary Des Browne said: "The death of Lance Corporal Violino is profoundly tragic. The Army has lost a highly professional soldier and his death is an immense blow to all who knew him."

(KMcA)


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