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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
National
Ryan Merrifield

'Bright and talented' soldier, 26, killed in tank crash 'stood out from the crowd'

The British soldier killed during a tank training session has been named and pictured for the first time as tributes are paid.

Second Lieutenant Max George died after the Warrior armoured fighting vehicle he was in crashed on Salisbury Plain, near Tidworth, on Tuesday.

Emergency crews were called at around 10.45am.

The 26-year-old had sustained significant head injuries and died at the scene, Wiltshire Police confirmed.

The Plain is a large military training area for the British Army.

The force said the soldier was taking part in the routine session alongside other forces in the 5th Battalion The Rifles.

Today, the Ministry of Defence released his name, photo and several tributes, including from Defence Secretary Ben Wallace.

Soldiers in action during training on Salisbury Plain (stock photo) (Getty Images)

The minister said: "The passing of 2Lt George is an especially poignant reminder, as we mark Armed Forces Week, that our service personnel are always in harm’s way working to keep us safe.

"We are forever grateful.

"Max exemplified all the qualities the Army stands for and as the testimonies show, we have lost a bright and talented young man who will be sorely missed.

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

The MOD described 2Lt George as having a "glittering career in front of him" and how excited he was by the prospect of an "imminent" overseas deployment to Canada.

2Lt George was riding in a Warrior armoured vehicle when it crashed (Crown Copyright)

The MOD added: "A remarkable and talented young man who had so much to offer, the Battalion and Regiment will miss him dearly and we send our sincere condolences to all his family and friends."

2Lt George had been commissioned as the Queen's Medal Winner into the 5 RIFLES in December last year.

He was able to join the battalion and take command of the D Company RIFLES early having gained his range qualifications through reserve service in his University Training Corps and with Z Company of the 5th Battalion The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers.

The MOD said he had completed the tactics phase of the gruelling Platoon Commander's Battle Course "with apparent ease", finishing in the top 10.

Other tributes included that from Lt Col Jim Hafield OBE, Commanding Officer 5 Rifles.

He said 2Lt George "was a star that burned bright".

British Defence Secretary Ben Wallace (REUTERS)

"Effortlessly impressive, he was a natural commander, who exuded fierce determination matched by selfless compassion," he continued.

"We loved him for it. He stood out, and still stands out; we are so much poorer for his loss. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends."

While Major Joe Murray, Officer Commanding D Company, 5 RIFLES, said the soldier "stood out from the crowd".

Diligent, bright-eyed, and quick off the mark, he slotted into his role commanding 13 Platoon from the off," he continued.

"We were only starting to understand Max’s exceptional potential. Unassuming and meticulous, Max needed very little time to bed into his role.

"Max’s death will leave a gaping hole in 13 Platoon and the wider company, who have benefitted enormously from the care and leadership he was so ably providing."

Lt Joe Hayes, Officer Commanding 14 Platoon, D Company, 5 RIFLES, said the soldier was "an exceptional man".

He went on to say: "I knew Max not only as a fellow platoon commander within D Company but also as a dear friend.

"Max and I shared a brotherhood only few will have the honour of understanding.

"Anything he set his mind to he excelled at, and this is only further testament to his tenacious character. Max was not only adored by his peers but also the Riflemen within his command.

"Max loved his job, and this was clear to see by all."

An investigation into the collision is being led by police alongside the Army and Health and Safety Executive.

The incident follows another soldier passing away after an incident involving a tank in Wiltshire in October last year.

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