Family hails courage of 'born soldier' killed in Afghanistan

The grieving family of a "born soldier" who was killed in Afghanistan spoke of his courage as he was laid to rest yesterday.

Bombardier Samuel Robinson, 31, died in an explosion while on foot

patrol in the Sangin area of Helmand province on July 8.

At least 300 friends, well-wishers and family members braved teeming rain at his funeral yesterday. A service took place for Bombardier Robinson, of 5th Regiment Royal Artillery, at St Mary's Church, in Carmarthen, west Wales.

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He had arrived in Afghanistan in May to work as a specialist adviser providing support to Combined Force Sangin from Forward Operating Base Wishtan.

He was on his fourth operational tour in Afghanistan when he was killed.

A guard of honour stood to attention as the coffin carrying his body was carried into the small Carmarthen church, close to where he grew up.

Six uniformed pall-bearers picked from his regiment slowly carried the coffin, draped in a union flag, into the church.

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Once inside a floral tribute from the family, carrying the message "You will live in our hearts forever," was laid on it.

The Rt Rev Thomas Burns, Bishop of Menevia, then led a traditional service of prayers, hymns and bible extracts.

Parents Alison and Dennis Robinson sat at the front of the packed church with their heads bowed.

Bdr Robinson's brother and sisters, Diana, Justin and Corinna sat alongside.

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Before the funeral service today his parents released a tribute to

their son.

It said: "Sam was born in Aberystwyth and was very proud not only to be Welsh but also to speak fluent Welsh.

"A very active young man, he played rugby, ran, swam and canoed – in fact, he enjoyed everything to do with the outdoors life.

"He had a great love of animals and enjoyed walking the family dogs by the river in Bronwydd and in the Welsh hills and forests."

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