ANDREW FENTIMANRifleman Andrew Fentiman died after being shot on foot patrol near Sangin in central Helmand province on 15 November 2009.Rifleman Fentiman was a Territorial Army soldier who had volunteered for service in Afghanistan.The 23-year-old was survived by his parents, Kevin and Lynda, brother Adam and sister Elizabeth.In civilian life, he read Mechanical Engineering at the University of Leicester before becoming a regional sales manager for Team Studio Ltd, a software firm in Huntingdon. He intended to return to his civilian job on his return home.Born in Cambridge on 29 July 1986, he joined 7 RIFLES as a Potential Officer in 2007 following two years at East Midlands Officer Training Corps. He volunteered to serve with 3 RIFLES Battlegroup, completing an assault pioneer course in May 2009 before being mobilised in June.Rifleman Fentiman attended training at the Reserves Training and Mobilisation Centre, in Chilwell before joining A Company 3 RIFLES during Pre-Deployment Training. He quickly proved his mettle, earning high praise from OPTAG training staff for his reactions during a demanding exercise in Norfolk.Lieutenant Colonel Nick Kitson, Commanding 3 RIFLES Battle Group, said: "Rifleman Andrew Fentiman was one of the welcome volunteers from our Territorial Army brethren, in this case 7 RIFLES, who have answered the call to come out to Afghanistan with us. It was an honour and a great act of commitment that he chose to accompany us and share the burden."A real ambassador for the great British public that supports us so well, he was up for the challenge and gave of himself selflessly."A university graduate, he was something of a novelty to his platoon. Bright and enthusiastic he fitted in instantly. I have infinite respect for the commitment and sacrifice of this brave Rifleman who had so many opportunities ahead of him yet chose first to serve his country and his regiment."He was liked and respected by all and will be sorely missed as he now makes his way home to his family. Our thoughts are with them and all of his loved ones at this most difficult time."Lieutenant Colonel Paul Uden, Commanding Officer 7 RIFLES, said: "The loss of Rifleman Andrew Fentiman is a terrible shock to everyone in the Battalion."He was a young man of 23 who played a full role as a TA infantryman, and was a popular and committed member of E Company, 7 RIFLES."He went to Afghanistan to gain experience as a first step to achieving his goal of commissioning and I have no doubt that he would have made a very good Officer. He was keen, committed and determined to succeed."
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