Remembering the Fallen: on this day in 2007, Lance Corporal Alex Hawkins, of 1st Battalion The Royal Anglian Regiment, died in southern Afghanistan. He and two others who were injured had been taking part in a routine patrol and were returning to their patrol base when their Vector vehicle was caught up in explosion. Lance Corporal Hawkins had been a cadet and enjoyed it so much that he joined the army. From the start, he was considered to be an impressive soldier, showing courage, determination and leadership skills. He had served in Iraq as a Rifleman, and on return volunteered to undertake sniper training. His Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Stuart Carver, considered him to be "one of the most promising soldiers of his generation," and went on to say: "A natural leader and trained sniper, he was a superb example to others and highly respected throughout the Vikings. He leaves behind some fond memories and a lasting legacy that we will all strive to live up to. Never to be forgotten, he will go down in Regimental history as a true professional and close friend who we feel privileged to have served and fought with." Alex, from East Dereham, was 22 years old.