Warwick paratrooper Conrad Lewis receives posthumous mention in dispatches

The 22-year-old, of 4th Battalion The Parachute Regiment, has received a mention in dispatches for his actions as a lead scout while on patrols operating from the isolated and hazardous Check Point Quadrat in the Nad-e Ali District of Helmand Province.

Attached to A Company, 3rd Battalion, Pte Lewis operated in the position of greatest danger as he and his fellow soldiers faced heavy, accurate and often repeated attacks.

His citation states: “Amongst his peers at Check Point Quadrat, the most hazardous location in Nad-e Ali, he was recognised as a uniquely brave individual.

“His insistence on carrying out the most dangerous tasks was accepted with deep appreciation and respect.

“Private Lewis’ mates were always his first concern, accepting huge personal risk to protect his colleagues on his first operational tour.”

Pte Lewis, a former Claverdon Primary School pupil who played football for Central Ajax and swam for Leamington Spa Swimming Club, was killed by an insurgent sniper while performing his duties on February 9.

His funeral was held at St Mary’s church in Warwick in March and hundreds turned out to pay their respects.

The paratrooper’s family said: “We have always been deeply proud of Conrad and all that he achieved in his short yet highly charged and fulfilling 22 years, and we forever will be.

“Conrad was a remarkable young man and those of us who miss him the most can identify the strength of character described in this citation and it is some comfort to know that he will now forever be publicly recognised for his actions, dedication and selfless service.

“He was fiercely proud to be a soldier in the Parachute Regiment and tried to live up to the highest of their standards.

“The citation describes a man whose first concern was his Para mates, who he thought he could best protect by repeatedly taking on the most hazardous responsibilities in the most dangerous check point in Nad-e Ali.

“He willingly and actively volunteered to serve in Afghanistan and regularly said – ‘if not me, who?’

“The personal responsibility, bravery and fearless nature with which he undertook the task is humbling for those of us that now try to honour his memory and develop his legacy.”

Being mentioned in dispatches is the oldest form of recognition for gallantry within the UK armed forces.