A former soldier, Stephen Guard, 44, from Rugby, is set to attend the Iraq15 event organized by the Royal British Legion on Friday to pay tribute to his fallen comrade who lost his life while volunteering. Guard revealed that he was next to his colleague when they were asked for volunteers, and two young recruits courageously stepped forward, with one returning safely and the other tragically losing his life. The fallen soldiers, Fusilier Stephen Robert Manning, 22, from Erith, and Fusilier Donal Anthony Meade, 20, from south east London, were killed in Iraq on September 5th, 2005, by a roadside bomb during a patrol in Basrah province.
Guard, who was part of the same platoon, explained that he refrained from volunteering that day, feeling that having served longer, he should step back. Reflecting on the close call, Guard expressed his gratitude for being spared and emphasized the importance of honoring the memory of his fallen comrades. As a window fitter and reservist, Guard will join the Royal British Legion ceremony commemorating the 15th anniversary of the Iraq War at the National Memorial Arboretum.
The event, marking the end of Operation TELIC, aims to honor all those who served in the conflict, their families, and the fallen. Among the attendees expected are 1500 veterans and their families. For Guard, the day will hold profound significance as he plans to lay a wreath at the service and pay respects to his fallen colleagues whose names are inscribed on the Armed Forces memorial wall.
Having served in Iraq in 2006, a year after the tragic incident, Guard acknowledged the challenges faced by his platoon, recounting the guilt he felt for not being able to do more to support his comrades. He also recalled the impact of losses suffered back home, including the murder of Lee Rigby in 2013, further underscoring the emotional toll of military service.
Guard recounted his harrowing experiences in Iraq, including near misses and encounters with mortars, highlighting the constant danger faced by soldiers on the front lines. Despite the challenges, Guard considers himself fortunate to have returned home unscathed and cherishes the life he has built with his family. He emphasized the importance of honoring the memories of those who made the ultimate sacrifice and expressed his gratitude for being able to pay tribute at the upcoming event.