Family's grief at hero soldier's death

Jun 6 2007 By Steve Johnson, Birmingham Mail

THE grieving parents of a hero Black Country soldier killed in action in Afghanistan today revealed it was his childhood dream to join the Army.

Michael and Ann Probyn, of Brierley Hill, commenting for the first time on the tragedy which robbed them of their son, said that 22-year-old Daniel had wanted to sign up since he was six.

Michael, speaking ahead of Daniel's funeral tomorrow, said: "We could not be more proud of Daniel and could not have wished for a better son.

"He had wanted to join the Army since he was six and the day he passed out of Catterick my heart was filled with pride. At that time he was awarded a presentation tankard for being the recruit who had made the best endeavour.

"Daniel had also been to Iraq twice and last year was commended for his part in getting a friend to safety who was injured in a mortar attack.

"He never mentioned it, because that was how he was, always putting others before himself.

"He was a quiet young man, who never made a fuss about his achievements. It broke my heart when I heard he had been killed. He was not only my son, he was my best mate."

Daniel's mother Ann said: "Daniel was dedicated to his job, he loved the Army and it is hard to imagine him doing anything else. The Army brought out the best in him. Our thoughts are also with the families of his injured mates who are still in hospital.

"Daniel was a good role model for his three brothers. He was caring, loving and unselfish. He volunteered to go to Afghanistan but never spoke to his family about his experiences because he would not wish to cause us upset.

"We would like to thank Daniel's friends and colleagues in the Army who have been 100 per cent supportive throughout. We have been overcome by the very kind letters and cards we have received."

Guardsman Probyn, who was from Tipton and was a former pupil at Tividale High School, was serving with the 1st Battalion Grenadier Guards when he was killed in an explosion early on May 26 during an offensive operation to clear a Taliban stronghold on the outskirts of Garmsir, in Southern Helmand. Four other soldiers from the battalion were injured in the incident.

Platoon commander Lt Andrew Tiernan described him as the most outstanding soldier he had ever come across.

"He was an inspiration to others and a legend within the platoon. He was a hero to all of us and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and his girlfriend Michelle, with whom he intended to spend the rest of his life."

Daniel's funeral service, with full military honours, takes place at 3 pm tomorrow at Christ Church, Quarry Bank, followed by cremation at Gornal Wood Crematorium.