The soldier, from the Light Dragoons, was "an inspiration" to everyone he worked with, a college spokesman said.

BBC: Sgt Lee Davidson

The commanding officer of the Light Dragoons, Lt Col Sam Plant, said Sgt Davidson was "a simply superb soldier and a wonderful man".

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However, the arrival of thousands of US marines had now freed up the Light Dragoons battle group to launch its latest offensive, he added.

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Lt Disney, who served in the Light Dragoons, is all too aware of the importance of the help with rehabilitation that charities such as Help for Heroes can supply.

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Councillor George Derx, deputy mayor of Thorne Moorends town council, said the local community felt "grief and sorrow" for Sgt Davidson's family, friends and colleagues in the Light Dragoons.

BBC: Sgt Lee Davidson