Soldier returns to Iraq for third frontline tour

Jul 31 2008 by Alastair McNeill, Hamilton Advertiser

A HAMILTON soldier has just finished the first month of a six-month operational tour of Iraq.

Lance Corporal Willy Monaghan is in Basra with C squadron of the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards, which he joined in 2002.

The 26-year-old has served in Iraq twice before, in 2003 and 2005, but this is the first time Willy, son of Moira and Peter, has served there as a husband.

He said this week that he misses wife Kirsten and daughter Katie very much.

“It is still hard being away, especially as it is my first time as a married man,” Willy added.

However, the return to Iraq does not worry the soldier.

“It’s fine to be back, but I am happy to be in tanks this time,” he said.

Willy is the operator/loader of the Challenger 2, the British Army’s main battle tank, and the second most senior soldier in the four-man crew.

The tanks regularly patrol the Basra area to support Iraq’s own security forces.

In contrast to previous tours in the country, Willy said this time there appears to be more Iraqi Army and police on the streets.

“This is definitely a positive change,” he added.

Willy is based at Basra International Airport and can experience temperatures above 45C.

He has to drink more than nine litres of water each day to counter the intense heat, which amounts to a staggering 270kg per month.

The soldier will enjoy a two week-break back in the UK during the six-month tour.

He plans to celebrate his daughter’s fourth birthday when he is back home.

Willy is also looking forward to seeing his family and friends in Hamilton at Christmas.

Anyone who would like to send a parcel to Willy or anyone in C Squadron during their tour, can address it to: Support C, C Squadron, Scots DG, 1RRF BG, BFPO641.