Pegasus Journal Obituary for Captain Alex Fairey

Alex Fairey, late of Support Company 3 PARA, was tragically killed on 5 Nov 97 while riding home on his motorcycle. He was 26 years old.

Alex showed an early aptitude for outdoor activities and a career in the army seemed particularly appropriate for him. He passed out of RMA Sandhurst in Aug 1991 and was commissioned into the Gordon Highlanders. He served with the Regiment in several theatres including Germany and Northern Ireland.

Alex then volunteered for loan service with The Parachute Regiment and passed all-arms P Coy in mid- 1994. After qualifying as a parachutist he joined 2 PARA in Palace Barracks, Northern Ireland, where he served as a Platoon Commander in D Coy. Shortly after this he transferred permanently to The Parachute Regiment.

He was posted to ITB Catterick in Sep 1995 where he was responsible for training Parachute Regiment recruits.

In Jun 1996, Alex was posted to 3 PARA where he took over the Medium Machine Gun Platoon. After achieving a distinction on the MMG course he commanded the Platoon in Norway on a large multi-national deployment. Alex then deployed with the Bn to Northern Ireland where he worked as an Operations Officer.

Sep 1997 saw him posted to RHQ PARA where he was to take charge of the Regiment's recruiting programme.

Alex Fairey enjoyed many outdoor and sporting pursuits and was always willing to try something new. In addition to climbing and skiing, he was an enthusiastic cyclist and also took great delight in introducing the game of croquet to the mess.

He was an extremely popular officer across the Bn and will be remembered for his physical presence, good nature, enthusiasm, energy and integrity.

Alex was a gentleman and a good friend to many. He will be dearly missed. Our deepest sympathies are extended to his family and friends.