We’ll honour Wirral’s hero troops, council boss promises

Aug 5 2009 by Kevin Core, Birkenhead News

THE bodies of the two Wirral soldiers killed in Afghanistan were flown back to Britain separately last week.

Jessica, the nine-month-old daughter of Birkenhead Trooper Phillip Lawrence, was present as the procession made its way from RAF Lyneham through Wootton Bassett.

The 22-year-old was killed in an explosion in Lashkar Gah, on July 27, in an operation to secure territory following Operation Panther’s Claw.

Wirral Council was to mark the death of Trooper Lawrence and Birkenhead-born Guardsman Christopher King by flying the town hall flag at half mast.

Council leader Steve Foulkes said: “I would like to say we are extremely proud of these brave young men and I want their families and friends to know that our thoughts and prayers are with them at this very sad time. The flag will be flown at half-mast in recognition of their courage.”