Lance Corporal Daniel Cooper, 21, from 3rd Battalion The Rifles – based at Edinburgh's Redford Barracks – was killed in an explosion as he tried to clear a path in in northern Helmand on Sunday.
His parents, Karl and Caroline Cooper, said in a statement: "A caring son, brother and partner. He was not just a brother but a best friend who will be sadly missed by all that knew him."
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Hide AdLieutenant Colonel Nick Kitson, Commanding Officer 3 Rifles Battle Group, said: "Lance Corporal Daniel Cooper was one of the great characters of the Battalion; his sense of humour and zest for life were topped only by his ability and determination."