Croydon soldier dies protecting comrades in Afghanistan. (From Your Local Guardian)

Croydon soldier dies protecting comrades in Afghanistan.

2:18pm Friday 11th June 2010 in News By Harry Miller

An “intelligent” and “humble” Croydon soldier has been killed in Afghanistan, clearing the way for colleagues of improvised explosive devices.

Private Jonathan Monk, 25, was caught in an explosion while on foot patrol in the Upper Garesk Valley in Helmand Province on Wednesday.

Private Monk from 2nd Battalion The Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment was attached to 1st Battalion The Mercian Regiment.

He joined the Army in 2001 aged 16 and joined the 2nd Battalion The Princess of Wales's Royal Regiment following the completion of his basic training.

Private Monk had already completed tours of Iraq in 2005 and Northern Ireland in 2006. He then moved to the Javelin Platoon for a further three years which included a tour of Afghanistan in 2008.

The family of Private Jonathan Michael Monk made the following statement to the Ministry of Defence: "Jon was the most wonderful son, and a truly great brother to Michaela.

"The Army was in his blood, it was all he'd ever wanted to do since he was five years old.

"He had great energy and drive, and tremendous courage and determination. Even as a child he had no fear of tackling difficult situations and would never give up.

"He was extremely generous both to family and friends, and always eager to give help to anyone that needed it.

“He leaves and enormous void in all our lives. We will miss him so much, but we will always be so proud of his achievements and the dedicated way he served his country. He will always be our hero."

His friend, Private Duane Knott, said: "Private Monk - many words describe this soldier: strong, humble, good at pool, dancing and drinking, more successful with women than he should be, intelligent and honest."