Herefordshire is in mourning for Lance Corporal Daniel Cooper, who died from his wounds after an explosion near Sangin in Helmand Province on Sunday.
Daniel was leading a resupply patrol with the 3rd Battalion the Rifles when an improvised explosive device detonated critically injuring him.
The 21-year-old from Hereford is the fourth serviceman from the county to have died while on active service in Afghanistan.
His death follows that of Sarjeant Paul McAleese, of Hereford, and Rifleman William Aldridge, of Bredenbury, near Bromyard last year, and Lance Corporal Steven Sherwood, from Ross-on-Wye, who was serving with the 1st Battalion The Royal Gloucestershire, Berkshire and Wiltshire Light Infantry when he died, back in 2005.
Born in Hereford, Daniel went to Whitecross High School before enlisting. He had been promoted in the field to L/Cpl.
His parents, Karl and Caroline Cooper, described Daniel as a caring son, brother and partner who would be sadly missed by all who knew him.
They added: “Daniel, we were proud to be your parents from the day you were born.”
Among his interests were soccer and he played for the Belmont Rangers youth side.
Daniel’s Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Col Nick Kitson, said: “His sense of humour and zest for life were topped only by his ability and determination.
“The consummate soldier, he was the complete package, fit bright and dedicated to his work. He was irrepressibly positive.”
In a statement, Secretary of State Bob Ainsworth said: “Lance Corporal Cooper was clearly a very popular and talented soldier who held the respect and high regard of all who worked with him. My thoughts and condolences are with his family, colleagues and friends during this difficult time.”
Funeral arrangements are yet to be made but many in Hereford are expected to pay their respects.
Within the next few days, a hearse bearing Daniel was expected to drive from RAF Lyneham and through Wootton Bassett where crowds will gather.
He was the 251st British soldier to be killed while on active service in Afghanistan.
The 3rd Battalion The Rifles were deployed to Afghanistan in October last year.
