Remembering the Fallen: on this day in 2006, Lance Bombardier James Dwyer, of 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery, was killed in Afghanistan while on patrol. The vehicle he was driving, a Wimik Land Rover, struck an anti-tank mine and flipped over. An MoD vehicle expert told the inquest that the bomb "would have outmatched the protection" given by the lightly armoured Wimik and that the cut-down vehicles were being replaced by the sturdier Jackal four-by-fours that have a much greater mine resistance. It was stated that they had the best possible protection at the time.

Lance Bombardier Dwyer had been inspired to join the army by his sister, a serving soldier, and also friends who had travelled to the U.K. and subsequently joined up. He had only been in Afghanistan for two months before he was killed. He is remembered as being a dedicated soldier, an intelligent young man with an infectious sense of humour.

His Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Neil Wilson RA, said of him: "James was a bright, motivated young man who displayed all the characteristics of a commando soldier. He was extremely popular within the Regiment and undoubtedly would have progressed through the ranks rapidly. James will be missed sorely by all members of 29 Commando Regiment Royal Artillery, and our thoughts and condolences go to his family and friends at this very difficult time. His loss is particularly poignant at this time of year.”

James, born and raised in South Africa, was 22 years old.