Remembering the Fallen: on this day in 2008, Corporal Damian Stephen Lawrence of 2nd Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment (Green Howards), was taking part in a joint UK - Afghan National Army night patrol in Kajaki, tasked with clearing a number of compounds, when an IED detonated, fatally injuring him. This was his second deployment to Afghanistan.

Corporal Lawrence had enlisted in the army in 1999, and spent his first year as a rifleman before being singled out to move to the Reconnaissance Platoon. He completed the JNCOs Cadre in 2005, being noticed for his diligence and enthusiasm. During his first tour of Afghanistan he made an outstanding job of taking on the difficult and dangerous task of training and mentoring an Afghan National Army Platoon. He served in Gereshk, took part in the recapture of Musa Qal’eh, and also conducted operations in Kajaki. He also served with distinction in Northern Ireland and Kosovo.

Warrant Officer 1st Class Richard Hind, Regimental Sergeant Major, said: "Corporal Lawrence was one of the Battalion’s finest JNCOs. An enthusiastic and outstanding soldier, he had recently completed the Section Commanders Battle Course at Brecon. Professional, determined and encouraging, he knew how to get the best from his soldiers. It was typical that he died leading from the front where others may have faltered. He lived life to the max, working and playing hard. Corporal Lawrence was regarded with fondness and respected by all. It has been an honour to have served alongside him."

Damian, from Whitby, was 25 years old and left behind a small daughter.