Scots medic killed by Afghan bomb died doing job he loved, says wife

Published on Tuesday 19 August 2008 22:15

A SCOTTISH army medic killed in a bomb blast in southern Afghanistan was described yesterday as "a hero" who "died doing the job he loved" by his grieving widow.

Corporal Barry Dempsey, 29, of The Royal Highland Fusiliers, 2nd Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland, died on Monday after an improvised explosive device was detonated as he left his patrol vehicle.

The soldier, from Ayrshire, was taking part in a joint British-Afghan operation in the Gereshk area of Helmand Province.

Three other members of the unit – a non-British international soldier, an Afghan National Army soldier and an interpreter – received shrapnel and blast injuries in the attack.

They were airlifted to the medical unit at Camp Bastion.

Cpl Dempsey leaves behind a wife, Shelly, son, Charlie and daughter, Andie.

Mrs Dempsey said last night: "Barry was a devoted husband and father. He has died doing a job he loved. His family and the Army were his life. He will be forever missed by his wife, children and family. He will never be forgotten. He died a hero."

Cpl Dempsey joined The Royal Highland Fusiliers in 1998 and spent most of his career as a medic in the Regimental Aid Post. He was promoted to the rank of corporal last year.

Paying tribute to him, Lieutenant Colonel Nick Borton, commanding officer of the Royal Regiment of Scotland, said: "Always calm and professional, he was naturally suited to a medical career, and planned to continue progressing in this area.

"Barry was a stalwart of the medical centre; a hard worker, he always volunteered for any task, and was always at the centre of the team, motivating and encouraging the younger medics."

"We have lost a great friend and fellow soldier."

Lieutenant Colonel Ed Freely, The 1st Battalion The Royal Irish Regiment Commanding Officer in Afghanistan, said that his fellow soldiers had gathered to remember Cpl Dempsey.

"On learning the news of his passing, the battle group paused to remember this fine man and brave colleague," he said. "We gathered around our simple stone memorial, prayed for him, his wife, son and daughter back in Edinburgh. When we all return home, we will mourn him properly."

His death brings the total number of British military deaths in Afghanistan to 116 since the start of operations in November 2001. Of those, the MoD said 85 were killed as a result of hostile action.

Des Browne, Defence Secretary, said: "I was extremely saddened to hear of the death of Cpl Dempsey.

"He was a selfless and brave professional, putting himself in harm's way to provide the very best of medical care to his colleagues and Afghans alike.

"My thoughts are with his family, friends and regiment at this very difficult time."