Hamilton soldier Johnathan Moore killed in Afghanistan

Feb 11 2010

THE family of a Hamilton soldier killed in Afghanistan have told how he was doing the job that he loved.

Former Hamilton Grammar pupil Corporal Johnathan Moore (22), known as John, died in bomb blast while commanding his section on a routine patrol in the Sangin area of Helmand Province on Sunday.

His lead man private Sean McDonald was also killed in the explosion.

Johnathan’s parents Ian and Karen and sisters Emma and Heather, who live in Larkhall, are still trying to come to terms with his death.

A family spokesman said: “Johnathan was a proud Scottish soldier who was doing a job that he loved.

“He will be sadly missed by a loving and very proud family.

“The Army and his family were Johnathan’s life. We are devastated at our loss.”

Corporal Moore and Private McDonald were of The Royal Scots Borderers, 1st Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland (1 SCOTS), part of the 3 Rifles Battle Group.

Bob Ainsworth, Secretary of State for Defence, paid tribute to “professional, courageous selfless, committed and true infantry soldiers”.

“I was so very sorry to learn of the deaths of Corporal John Moore and Private Sean McDonald,” he said. “My thoughts and deepest sympathies are with their loved ones.”

Lieutenant Colonel Nick Kitson, Commanding Officer, 3 RIFLES Battle Group, said Johnathan was a leader of the “rarest quality” and described his death as a “bitter blow” to the army.

“Another of our brightest stars has given his all before we have had the chance to see his full and undoubted potential unfold,” he added.

Born in Bellshill on July 2, 1987, Corporal Moore went to Hamilton Grammar before enlisting and going to the Army Foundation College in Harrogate in 2004.

He completed a year’s training designed to promote to junior leadership before going to the Infantry Training Centre, Cattrick, for his phase two infantry-specific training.

He joined The Royal Scots (The Royal Regiment) in March 2005 and since then has been on two tours in Iraq.

Corporal Moore deployed as a Section Commander with B Company, The Royal Scots Borderers 1st Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland, part of the 3 RIFLES Battle Group, to Sangin in October 2009. His company is operating mainly from Patrol Base Wishtan in the Sangin area of Helmand Province, and has been conducting operations to provide security and development to the local nationals, whom they live amongst.

Private Stuart Collins, a close friend of John for one-and-a-half years, said: “John was not only my army friend but he was a true ‘civvie’ friend too.

“We lived near each other in Hamilton and we would meet up at weekends and go for a few drinks. I am truly going to miss John and the dramas at Hamilton Palace.

“I want to give my deepest regards to all his family and my thoughts are with his niece Esmee, whom I know he wanted to get home to see.

“And I best not forget about his dog that I know he loved even though he pretended he didn't.

“I am going to miss John so much and I know that everyone in 4 Platoon will too.”

Lieutenant Colonel Charlie Herbert, Commanding Officer, 1st Battalion The Royal Regiment of Scotland said Johnathan was destined for the top after being best student on his noncommissioned officer course in 2007 and a star of his Corporals Course in 2008

“Corporal John Moore had all the attributes of the perfect Scottish warrior; bold, charismatic, tough as nails, utterly professional and a born leader of men.”

Lance Corporal Calum Flemming added: “I remember the very first time I met John, it was in Baghdad during Op TELIC 7.

“The last night we had out together was in Glasgow at Corporal Eddie Scott’s stag do.

“It was one of the best nights I have ever had thanks to John.

“But then of course the next morning bright and early he was banging on my door saying let’s go shopping. He is the only person I know to be so hyper first thing in the morning. I will remember him. Rest in peace John.”

Colin Stewart, Hamilton Grammar’s head teacher, said: “Johnathan is fondly remembered by his teachers who describe him as very decent, reliable and friendly young man who was a credit to his family and local community.

“At this difficult time, the thoughts and condolences of the school go to Jonathan’s family, colleagues and friends.”