Settle soldier killed in Afghanistan (From The Westmorland Gazette)

Settle soldier killed in Afghanistan

6:34pm Friday 4th November 2011 in Settle news

A soldier shot dead in Afghanistan was named tonight as Private Matthew Haseldin, from Settle.

The 21-year-old, of the 2nd Battalion, The Mercian Regiment, was killed when his patrol was attacked in the Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand Province yesterday.

Pte Haseldin was part of an operation to maintain freedom of movement for the local population, when the group was attacked by insurgents.

His battalion is responsible for keeping Route 611 open, which is a key "Main Supply Route" linking Gereshk city with other district centres in Helmand province and beyond, including Kandahar City.

Yesterday morning his patrol was carrying out a check when they came under sustained small arms fire and "underslung grenades during which Private Haseldin was fatally wounded", the Ministry of Defence said.

The killing takes the number of British personnel who have died since operations began in Afghanistan in 2001 to 384.

Tributes

His parents, Alan and Jill, said: "Matthew was a loving son and we are very proud of him.

"He had only been in the Army for a few months. Friends and family will miss him greatly. Rest in Peace."

Lieutenant Colonel Colin Marks, Commanding Officer 2 Mercian and Combined Force Burma, said: "Although Private Matthew Haseldin had only served a short time with C Company Group, he stood out as a young man of immense character, who had travelled widely and was mature beyond his years.

"Hugely popular, it was impossible to tell that he was the newest member of 7 Platoon, all of whom loved him like a brother.

"One of the team, Matthew was at the centre of most things and enjoyed a game of cards during precious rest periods.

"Steadfast in battle, Matthew faced more challenges in the few short weeks he spent in Helmand than many soldiers experience in a lifetime.

"He died standing firm in the face of a determined enemy, in the highest traditions of The Mercian Regiment."

Private Abriham Saho paid tribute to his colleague, saying: "Matt was a very hard-working and friendly individual.

"He has only been with us just a few weeks but fitted in so well it was like he had been here ages due to the strong bond he built with everyone.

"I liked him a lot as a person and as a friend, and especially as he was a Manchester United fan like me."

Major Tim Spoor, Officer Commanding C Company, 2 Mercian, said Pte Haseldin would be remembered for "his laughter, his stories, and above all, his commitment to his friends".

"Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time," he added.

"He will not be forgotten and will be remembered always by the soldiers of C Company."

Sergeant Mark Harris said: "Tall and thin, Matthew joined the platoon fresh-faced but quickly earned respect by more than holding his own during challenging situations.

"'Haz' was his nickname and he is already missed by 7 Platoon.

"My heart goes out to his family and friends back at home.

"He showed great courage and commitment to the mission, the mission in which he sadly gave his life."

Defence Secretary Philip Hammond said: "I was deeply saddened to hear of the death of Private Haseldin.

"By all accounts he was a professional soldier and, despite only a brief time in the Army, had won many true and loyal friends.

"He has paid the ultimate sacrifice whilst serving the nation, and my thoughts are with his family and friends at this tragic time."