Private Thomas Mechan

{ Tam }

13 Apr 1957 - 28 May 1982

  • General Service Medal Clasp (1962 onwards) medal
  • South Atlantic Medal with Rosette

Thomas Mechan enlisted into the Parachute Regiment in 1979 and passed  P Company with 456 Platoon on 2 November 1979.

Private Mechan was posted to 2 PARA and served in Northern Ireland on Operation Banner.

He served with Company HQ, D Company, 2 PARA on Operation Corporate.

25 year old Pte Mechan was killed by a stray bullet in daylight when D Company was still in reserve behind the leading companies of 2 PARA.

Pte Mechan is buried at Aldershot Military Cemetery.

See account of Goose Green co-edited by Colonel David Benest

 

Updated by Wendy George

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Service History

Decorations

Grave of Pte Mechan.

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Documents_1

  • 455 and 456 Passing Out Parade Booklet (last page)

    455 and 456 Passing Out Parade Booklet (last page)

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Latest Comments

Bill Bentley said:
I worked with Tam, the 'Wee Man' during the 1979-81 tour of NI. His talent as a comedian was our luck during many a bleak moment. When he fell, at Goose Green, a light went out! Since when, I can't remember ever laughing as loudly or as long as we used to.
winker watson said:
I joined Depot Para with Tam in 456 Platoon. He was a great mate and close friend as we were both from the Eastend of Glasgow. He will always be missed and remembered.
David Howie said:
Tam was a member of Support Company 15 PARA (SV) who signed on for an S Type engagement and was posted to 2 PARA. His engagement over, he was due to return but with a tour in Belize coming up, extended his engagement.
He was a great lad with a sense of fun. He was remembered when a new drill hall in Troon was named Mechan Hall.
Raymond Timmons said:
Yes David Howie nice comments. Tam Mechan was liked by all members of 15 Para I have good memories of Tam rest in peace Airborn brother
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