Announcements

LITTLE Heath school is mourning the death of ex-pupil Richard Green, who was killed on duty in Helmand. Corporal Green died after being shot near Sangin in Helmand province on Tuesday. The 23-year-old was described as a 'compelling personality' who never took a backward step on the battlefield. Headteacher David Ramsden said: "We are all greatly saddened by this news. Richard started at Little Heath School in 1998 and staff remember him as an extremely capable young man who was also popular and very well liked. "In the reference that the school wrote to the MOD following Richard's application in January 2003 to join the Armed Forces, there was nothing but praise and favourable comments for a student that the school was proud to recommend. "Our thoughts are with Richard's family and close friends as they try to come to terms with this terrible loss. We would like to offer our heartfelt condolences to them all." A statement from his family said: "Richard was a larger than life character who packed so much into his short life. In his own words he was the Greenmeister, a true legend. He wouldn't want any of us mourning his death, rather he would want us all to celebrate his life. On his recent R & R Richard said 'If anything happens to me know that I've lived life to the full, have no regrets, and love my job.' "We are so proud of him and will miss him more than words can ever say, but we do take comfort from the thought that, if there is a heaven, he is now having a laugh with his friends whose lives have been taken, just like his, over the past year." Richard's commanding officer lieutenant colonel Nick Kitson of 3 Rifles Battle Group said: "The Battle Group has lost one of its most capable young commanders and his sudden absence leaves both a large gap and a heavier burden. "We shall continue his work with renewed vigour. Cut down by a gunman hiding in the shadows, Corporal Green died whilst standing firm and proud alongside the Afghan Warriors who are increasingly taking security responsibility from the British troops here." Corporal Cove, of Reconnaissance Platoon, 3 Rifles Battle Group said: "Greeny was one of my best friends not just in the Army but in civvy street too, he was by far one of the best soldiers I have ever seen and was the one who always set the standards high for Recce Platoon: 'personal pride' he always used to say. "Someone like Greeny is such a big loss to the Army. One thing I can honestly say is he lived his dream and died doing what he loved best. I will never forget you; you will be at the top of the Recce tree forever and always." Corporal Green leaves behind his father Chris, his mother Eileen and his brother and sister, Daniel and Charlotte.