A soldier from Shropshire has died in a road accident in Germany.
Tributes were today paid to Lance Bombadier Andrew Tully, who served in 3rd Regiment Royal Horse Artillery. The 31-year-old, from Randlay, Telford, has been described as a “brave man” who “did his country proud”.
Thousands of people took to social media to pay respects to Mr Tully, and friends, family and well-wishers have gathered to release balloons in his memory.
Mr Tully completed a five-month tour in Afghanistan from September 25 until early February this year.
Captain Harriet Downing was the troop commander for Mr Tully while he was in Afghanistan.
In a tribute to Mr Tully, Captain Downing said he was a level headed, mature soldier with a great sense of humour. She also said he was a very effective and skilled soldier who was much valued by the British Army.
She said: “Technically, he was brilliant at his job as a gun operator and was an absolute natural on the guns.
“Memorably, he shocked sergeant majors and instructor gunners when he displayed fantastic gunnery in Otterburn achieving a target round the first time he tried firing the guns.
“A top class solider, he was a big character and considered by many a loyal friend.
“He served his country on a five-month tour in Afghanistan, deploying to forward locations to deliver close artillery support.
“He additionally completed a marathon for charity while deployed. He was very proud to be in the British Army and often mentioned that joining the Army was his biggest personal achievement.
"He would have started a junior non-commissioned officer cadre course and it is highly likely he would have been a bombardier in the next few months.
“Andrew Tully was one of the finest soldiers in 3rd Regiment Royal Horse Artillery. We will remember him.”
Mr Tully died in an accident on September 26. It is understood his body has yet to be returned to the UK.
Tributes to him have been left on Twitter and Facebook from family and friends.
Samantha Middleton posted: “It’s been a week and still can’t believe it or get my head round it.
“Andrew Tully hope you’re shining brightly up there. As cheeky as ever. Missed by so many people, shows what a top lad you were! Sleep well matey.”
Karen White added: “We salute you. Stand easy. Lay your weapons down. So very sad. Our thoughts go to your family and friends.”
Sian Fallon said: “Lovely get together releasing the balloons in memory of you Andrew Tully.
“I hope you like the messages from our hearts to your soul.”
And @HMForcesSpurs tweeted: “We lost a solder yesterday in an RTA, can’t believe it. Gutted is an understatement. RIP Andrew Tully.”
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