Private Peter Cowton, from 2nd Battalion The Parachute Regiment, died after being wounded during a battle in Afghanistan on 29 July, 2008.

The 25-year-old from London was part of a routine patrol in Helmand Province when they encountered enemy forces in the morning. After being hurt by a blast during the firefight, Pte Cowton was airlifted to Camp Bastion to receive treatment but died en route.

He was just days away from going on leave from the war-torn country.

Peter Joe Cowton was born on 24 October, 1982, in Basingstoke, Hampshire. His sense of adventure lured him into the Territorial Army as a volunteer in 2004. With them he served two tours of duty in Iraq before becoming a regular soldier in 2007.

Pte Cowton, who was a keen follower of several sports and also enjoyed reading, was survived by his parents Karen and Robin and two older sisters.

His family released a statement that said: "Peter was proud to serve his country, having already served in Iraq whilst a member of the TA. He was so 'Proud to be a Paratrooper' as we, his parents, and family were. His short regular Army career will not be forgotten, and his maroon beret will have loving memories in our home."

Major Adam Dawson paid tribute saying: "Pte Cowton was a vibrant and much-loved soldier, with a passion for the Army and the Parachute Regiment. He was a lynchpin in 9 Platoon, with his previous military experience and mature head, cool outlook and indomitable spirit.

"He was a very promising prospect indeed for the future, despite his limited time of service at 2 PARA. He was noted for being trustworthy, dedicated and the consummate professional whose energy and enthusiasm shone above all else. There was no fuss about the manner in which Pte Cowton conducted himself; he was on the mark with everything, quietly discerning and absolutely focussed."

Private Kristian Williams, a friend and colleague, said: "I first met Pete in training. He was very knowledgeable about military stuff - skills and drills. When someone was struggling or was in need of help he would be the first one to volunteer to help them out. He had helped me out on many occasions, both at work and in my private life.

"I have been a good friend of his since the first day of training, being in the same section and platoon as him in the Battalion. He was always first to volunteer for jobs that no one wanted to do."

Another friend Private Mark Matthews shared personal experiences of Peter: "I invited him and a few mates for a weekend in my hometown as he was an outgoing person and was a good bloke to be around. Remembering times I have spent with him has made me realise how much of a good friend he was.

"My thoughts go out to anyone who knew him as I'm sure he had an impact on everyone he met. He will be dearly missed, not only as a colleague, but one of my closest friends. He will not be forgotten."