Corporal Steven Thomas Dunn served with 216 (Parachute) Signal Squadron, attached to 2nd Battalion the Parachute Regiment Battlegroup, before being killed in action in Afghanistan on Tuesday, 21 December 2010.
Corporal Dunn was born on 4 October 1983 in Gateshead where he grew up and attended Saint Joseph's School, Hebburn. On joining the Army in September 2004, he successfully completed Basic and Trade Training before serving with 216 (Parachute) Signal Squadron as a Communications System Operator. Following a brief spell at 2nd Signal Regiment, he returned to 216 and to the environment in which he felt most comfortable.
With a tour in Iraq and two previous tours of Afghanistan already under his belt, he relished the opportunity to deploy again on Op HERRICK 13. He thrived in the challenging role of providing communication support at battlegroup level and was in his element when deployed forward on the ground with his infantry counterparts. He led by example and was a rock to his Rear Link Detachment.
Corporal Dunn deployed to Afghanistan on 19 September 2010 as part of 2nd Battalion the Parachute Regiment Battlegroup (2 PARA). He was based at Patrol Base 2, in the Nahr-e-Saraj district of Helmand Province.
On 21 December 2010 he was working with 2 PARA Patrols Platoon on a deliberate operation to interdict insurgents in the Bowri desert. He was travelling in a Jackal vehicle which hit an improvised explosive device at 1722 hours local time.
His passion for Newcastle United FC knew no bounds and his thirst and excitement for life was apparent in everything he did. Thoroughly dedicated to his family, his job and to those he served with, this potent blend won him the highest accolades and the respect of all.
He leaves behind his wife Cheryl and daughter Emily.
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