James Thompson died on 19 May, 2008, aged 27, while patrolling on foot as part of operations in the Musa Qaleh area of Helmand Province. The soldier, from Whitley Bay in Northumberland, was caught in an explosion and tragically lost his life.
His family released the following tribute to him: “James Thompson was a loving son, brother and friend to many. His tragic and untimely death has devastated the family and touched all those who knew him. James was proud to be a soldier – he died doing the job that he loved and will be sadly missed by all.”
His commanding officer said: "James Thompson was a special individual. A professional and reliable soldier in every respect - we were all privileged to serve alongside James who excelled in all that he did.
"His death has come as a great shock and he will be sadly missed by all his colleagues. Our thoughts are of course with his family, at this most difficult time."
