Rifleman Samuel John Bassett killed in Afghanistan

It is with regret that the Ministry of Defence must confirm that Rifleman Samuel John Bassett was killed in Afghanistan on Sunday 8 November 2009.

Rifleman Bassett, from 1 Platoon, A Company, 4th Battalion The Rifles, died in hospital following an Improvised Explosive Device explosion in the area of Sangin, Northern Helmand.

He was serving as part of the 3 RIFLES Battle Group. At the time, his Platoon were conducting routine patrolling in order to provide reassurance and security to the local population.

Rifleman Samuel John Bassett

Rifleman Samuel Bassett was born in Plymouth, Devon, on 27 September 1989. He completed military training at the Infantry Training Centre in Catterick before joining 4th Battalion The Rifles in Bulford in May this year.

He deployed as a Rifleman with A Company, 4 RIFLES, as part of the 3 RIFLES Battle Group, in October to the area around Northern Sangin.

Rifleman Bassett was a capable, bright and fun loving individual who was regarded as a real character by those with whom he worked. Young, fit and motivated, he undoubtedly had a bright future ahead of him and much to offer his Company and his Regiment.

Rifleman Bassett leaves his mother Coline, father Simon (who lives in Canada) and 18-year-old brother Jack.

Rifleman Bassett's mother, Coline Bassett, paid the following tribute:

"Samuel was not only my son, but Samuel and his brother Jack are my best friends. Samuel was a real character, always the joker, he will be so, so missed and loved forever - our proud little soldier. XXX

"During Samuel's last conversation with the Family he said he was 'having the time of his life' and even joked when he spoke to his Granddad whilst sitting on the roof watching the sun go down in Afghanistan, that he was also 'keeping his head down from the snipers.'"

Lieutenant Colonel Nick Kitson, Commanding Officer 3 RIFLES Battle Group, said:

"The loss of a Rifleman brimming with so much joie de vivre and potential is a painful blow to the Battle Group. Sam Bassett was indeed such a Rifleman. A man who steps up time and again to clear such dangerous ground for his friends to pass safely is truly one to be honoured.

"Those of us left here to continue in the work that he was doing will be strengthened by his example and shall revere his sacrifice and memory. The thoughts of the Battle Group are firmly with his Battalion, his friends and above all his family and loved ones."