Latest news with #2ndInfantryTrainingBattalion
BBC News
30-07-2025
- General
- BBC News
Catterick soldier dies after physical training session
A 19-year-old soldier has died following a physical training session at a barracks in North Yorkshire, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has Harry Johnson, of the 2nd Infantry Training Battalion, died after the session at Vimy Barracks in Catterick on 24 July, just three months after he had joined MoD said in a statement Pte Johnson, who was "genuine, kind and funny", had joined the Army on 13 April and had "already proved himself to have enormous potential as a soldier".Officials said they confirmed his death "with immense sadness" and added that their thoughts were with his family and friends. "Although he only joined the Army recently, Pte Johnson exemplified the values and standards of the British Army and applied them in everything he did," the MoD said."He was one of the hardest working members of the platoon; reliable and disciplined."He served much of his time within 3 Platoon, B Company in the 1st Infantry Training Battalion and completed Basic Training on 11 Jul 2025. "He was awarded Best Shot within 3 Platoon at his Pass Off Parade, an achievement he was extremely proud to win. Shortly afterwards, Pte Johnson started his Infantry Initial Trade Training with Bruneval Platoon." 'Loyalty and humour' The MoD added he had "high standards of physical fitness" and always had "a smile on his face and a genuine love for the job". They added: "The loss of Pte Johnson is a tragic blow to all those who worked with him, the Parachute Regiment and most importantly his family. "To lose someone so young with so much potential is extremely hard to take, and those closest to him are distraught. "He will be remembered fondly by all who knew him and were touched by his loyalty, humour, and selflessness." Lt Col Ben Jesty, Commanding Officer, 2nd Infantry Training Battalion, said they were "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," he Toby Staker, Bruneval Platoon Commander, Parachute Regiment Training Company, added: "Despite my relationship with Pte Johnson being only brief, it was clear to see that he fully understood the journey that he was on. "He carried himself with pride, humility, and steadfast confidence well beyond his years."Pte Noah Merriman, of Bruneval Platoon, said he had first met Pte Johnson during Phase I Training and had been struck by his "politeness and caring nature"."He was always willing to help others and brought a positive energy to the group. Harry had a good sense of humour and could always make us smile with his easy-going attitude."I remember him often talking to his girlfriend in the evenings with his headphones in, which became a familiar and endearing sight."He said Pte Johnson had been a "genuine, friendly and dependable person". Listen to highlights from North Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.
Daily Mail
29-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Teenage soldier, 19, dies after collapsing during physical training session at North Yorkshire barracks
A 'proud and passionate' teenage soldier collapsed and died during a physical training session with his battalion, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has announced. Private Harry Johnson, 19, was just three months into his military career when the tragedy occurred at Vimy Barracks in Catterick, North Yorkshire, last Thursday. The youngster had only signed up to the 2nd Infantry Training Battalion in April, with his superiors revealing that he had already shown 'enormous potential' as a soldier. Pte Johnson, who had passed basic training earlier this month, had been awarded Best Shot at his pass off parade before joining the Bruneval Platoon to begin training as a paratrooper. Paying tribute to the Doncaster-born teenager, the MoD today released a statement describing Pte Johnson as 'one of the hardest working members of the platoon,' as well as being 'reliable and disciplined'. The MoD continued: 'In 13 weeks, the only fault his training team could find was one day spotting some loose threads on his uniform. 'Pte Johnson's determination and selflessness were highlighted on field training exercises, being the first to volunteer to help those around him and making them laugh with his reaction to the thought of wet and dry drills. 'Despite not being the biggest soldier, his high standards of physical fitness, coupled with his determination and courage, meant he often punched above his weight, consistently performing at the top of the platoon.' It went on to describe the young soldier as someone who carried out tasks 'with a smile on his face and a genuine love for the job,' and showed 'evident love for his family and girlfriend, with whom he spoke regularly.' His death, the statement added, was 'a tragic blow' to his colleagues and loved ones. Lieutenant Colonel Ben Jesty, commanding officer of the 2nd Infantry Training Battalion, said the army had been left 'heartbroken' by his death. '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.' Pte Sam Birbeck, who trained alongside him in Bruneval Platoon, recalled the teenager's 'quiet yet engaging personality' and said: 'Harry was a genuine, talented, and caring individual who made a positive impression on those around him.' Another of his peers, Pte Cayden Dalgity, described Harry as 'a good guy who was always willing to help others. He was someone you could rely on.' Sergeant Foreman, Platoon Sergeant, said the young soldier was on track to 'becoming one of Britain's finest.' He added: 'His quiet resilience, determination, and the grit required to even begin that journey are not ordinary. They are qualities found in the best of us. 'Those who trained beside him will remember his loyalty and integrity.' Infantry recruits typically spend 28 weeks at the Infantry Training Centre (ITC) at Catterick. The MoD said in a statement: 'It is with immense sadness we confirm the death of Private (Pte) Harry Johnson of the 2nd Infantry Training Battalion on 24th July 2025. 'He died following a physical training session at Vimy Barracks, Catterick. He was 19 years old. Our thoughts are with Pte Johnson's family and friends at this sad time.'
