Young Soldier, 19, Dies in Training After Showing 'Enormous Potential'

The young soldier's commanding officer praised him as 'the best of his generation' in a moving message

A TEENAGE soldier has died just three months after joining the military, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) has announced.

Private Harry Johnson, 19, of the 2nd Infantry Training Battalion, collapsed and died following a physical training session with his unit at Vimy Barracks, Catterick, in North Yorkshire on Thursday.

He had joined the Army just three months ago on April 13 but had 'already proven himself to have enormous potential as a soldier', the MOD said in an emotional tribute.

Lieutenant Colonel Ben Jesty, Commanding Officer of Harry's battalion, said: 'We are heartbroken by the loss of Pte Harry Johnson from the Infantry family.

'A proud and passionate future Paratrooper he represented the best of his generation.

'Although early in his career he had already shown significant potential.'

Harry was a member of the Bruneval Platoon, Parachute Regiment Training Company within the battalion.

He previously served much of his time with 3 Platoon, B Company in the 1st Infantry Training Battalion, even being awarded Best Shot within the unit upon completion of his Basic Training in July.

In his touching tribute, Lt Col Jesty added: 'Tipped to be a future P Company Champion, he was the kind of young soldier that the country needs: fit, determined, disciplined and selfless.

'Vitally, he had the sense of humour to laugh at the eccentricities of Army life.

'He was a credit to his friends and family to whom we offer our most heartfelt condolences at this awful time.'

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