Runcorn soldier killed in Afghanistan is brought home (From Runcorn and Widnes World)

Griefstricken relatives lay flowers on soldier's hearse

9:57am Friday 3rd February 2012 in News By Barbara Jordan

THE griefstricken family of Runcorn soldier Signaller Ian Sartorius-Jones who died in Afghanistan stood with heads bowed as his body was brought home.

Clutching red roses, their tear stained faces watched as his Union Jack covered coffin was brought into RAF Brize Norton in Oxfordshire.

Soldiers and officers lined the streets yesterday evening to salute the cortege as it was driven through the streets as part of a repatriation ceremony.

Some mourners laid flowers on the hearse.

Signaller Sartorius-Jones, aged 21, was married and had an eight-month-old baby son.

He died at a Nato patrol base in the Nahr-e Saraj district of Helmand Province last Tuesday.

Military investigators, who are not looking for any one else in connection with his death, said the soldier, from 200 Signal Squadron, is not thought to have died as a result of hostile action.

His family paid tribute saying he would "always be missed".

"Ian was a lovable character, a devoted father to Dylan, who is eight months old, husband to Kellyanne, a wonderful son to Robert and Amanda and brother to Alan," they said.

The serviceman enlisted with the the Royal Corps of Signals in February 2007.

He joined his squadron in May 2008 and deployed to both Iraq and Afghanistan.

Major Stu Whittley, Officer Commanding 20th Armoured Brigade Headquarters and Signal Squadron (200), said:

"Signaller Sartorius-Jones was a gregarious, immensely respected and highly capable signaller. One of the longest serving members and biggest characters in the squadron, he had accrued a vast amount of experience in his short career.

Major Spiro Marcondonatos, Officer Commanding D (Delhi) Company, 1st Battalion The Yorkshire Regiment, said:

"I first met Signaller Sartorius-Jones on arrival in Forward Operating Base Khar Nikah in October 2011 as he had been in place with C Company, 3 MERICAN, as their Rear Link Detachment. Working out of the Company Operations Room, Signaller Sartorius-Jones was always at the hub of everything we did, ensuring all our communications systems were up and running.

"Knowledgeable, bright and dedicated, Signaller Sartorius-Jones added value in his work on a daily basis, working all hours to ensure the company was supported to the utmost.

"He frequently patrolled on the ground to ensure the communications in our checkpoints were updated and working, enabling the company to maintain its footprint and security in the Khar Nikah area.

"Sociable, with a good sense of humour, he mixed in well, making many friends in D (Delhi) Company. Signaller Sartorius-Jones will be sorely missed by all. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time."

“I will remember Signaller Sartorius-Jones for his dedication to his mates, upbeat nature and cutting sense of humour."

Signaller Anthony King, Queen’s Royal Hussars Rear Link Detachment, 20th Armoured Brigade Headquarters and Signal Squadron (200), said:

"S-J was the sort of person who always cracked a joke or had something to say when he walked into a room. Everyone knew him and he was liked by everyone whose life he entered.

"I have known S-J for a relatively short period of time, but in that time he has become a very close friend. I am extremely proud to say that I have known him; he would always make me smile, and he was a pleasure to be around.

"My thoughts go to all of his family, friends and especially his wife and young son Dylan. He will be missed by all who knew him and will never be forgotten."

Defence Secretary Philip Hammond, said:

"I was saddened to hear of the death of Signaller Ian Sartorius-Jones. I understand that he was at the start of a promising career and showed real dedication to his fellow servicemen and women. My thoughts are with his family at this difficult time."

A total of 397 British troops have died since the start of operations in Afghanistan in October 2001.