Warrant Officer II (C.S.M.) 24660655, Darren (Daz) William Leigh, B Coy, 1st Queen's Lancashire Regiment.
Died suddenly on his birthday from a brain haemorrhage at his battalion base in Cyprus on the morning he was informed of his award of the Military Cross for gallantry.
Following extract credited to
https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/news/greater-manchester-news/tragedy-of-army-hero-1105368
He won the MC for his actions during rioting in Basra, southern Iraq, last August.
During the violence he and his men prevented a police station from being overrun despite being subjected to missiles, rifle fire and grenade attacks. ne grenade caused multiple injuries to his legs but he continued to lead his men. He conducted a successful baton charge that cooled the situation and dispersed the hostile crowd.
His Commanding Officer, Lt Col Jorge Mendonéa, Said: "This is a shocking and unbelievably ill-timed tragedy that has robbed us of a much loved regimental personality and a very brave and accomplished soldier.
At rest in Agecroft Cemetery, Salford, Manchester
Photo taken by Kim who gave permission for upload
