Kenneth Michael Rowe
- Male
- Died Jul 24, 2008
- Newcastle, United Kingdom
About
British Corporal Dies
L/Cpl Kenneth Michael Rowe, 24, from Newcastle, of the Royal Army Veterinary Corps, had been due to leave the front line the day before he died.
He and his explosives sniffer dog Sasha died after coming under Taleban fire during a routine patrol in Helmand.
L/Cpl Rowe had asked not to leave on Wednesday - as he was worried about his base not having enough search cover.
The death brings the total number of British service personnel who have died in Afghanistan to 112.
Professionalism
L/Cpl Rowe's commanding officer, Major Stuart McDonald, said he had asked not to leave the base as planned because he was worried about the lack of search and explosives cover if he left.
"This unselfish action epitomised his professionalism and dedication to his job. I feel lucky to have known him and gutted to have said goodbye," said Maj McDonald.
L/Cpl Rowe was attached to the 2nd Battalion, the Parachute Regiment.
Maj Chris Ham, who leads the Military Working Dogs Support Unit, praised L/Cpl Rowe's bravery.
He said: "He died supporting his colleagues in a situation that required his customary composure and professionalism in handling his dog whilst facing a substantial threat from the enemy."
L/Cpl Rowe came under small arms fire from insurgents as he accompanied a patrol, to search for enemy arms and explosives in the Sangin area.
Five other soldiers from 2nd Battalion and one from 3rd Battalion, the Parachute Regiment were injured in the incident, one seriously.
L/Cpl Rowe, who leaves behind his parents and two sisters, had joined the army in 2005 and sent to Afghanistan in 2008.
Defence Secretary Des Browne said: "My thoughts are with the family and friends of L/Cpl Kenneth Rowe at this difficult time.
"By all accounts, he was a rising star in the Royal Army Veterinary Corps. "He was making a real difference in Afghanistan and he will be sorely missed by all his colleagues and by all those who knew him."
Sponsorship
Keep this Tribute free of advertising and enjoy unlimited uploads & storage
Share this Tribute
Let them know how much you caredOR
A brave soldier
Tyciol Aug 09, 2008
My Memory
david walker Aug 09, 2008
The honour to have you as my best man, was not yours but mine. You were always at the top of the list. Your pride and nobility shone through like a beacon, a candle in the night. Selfishly I hoped that I could do the same for you one day.
Those nights we worked at ASDA, though dark and cold, your disregard for safety when you rallied around in your van. The pranks you played and stories you told are just a memory now, too many to remember.
Confucius once said “When you meet someone better then yourself, turn your thoughts to becoming his equal. When you meet someone not as good as you are, look within and examine your own self”. Well Kenneth I did just that. When you died a part of me died also. I miss you.
Your daughter Hannah is very bonny just like her father. You deserve to be proud, because if even if one other life has benefited from your actions, then my friend your life has been successful.
I am esteemed to have known you. My condolences for Sasha, you both died unnecessarily and far far too soon. I hope one day to meet you again on the planes of time.
RIP
Chester Jul 30, 2008