Ulster Unionist MLA Doug Beattie MC has passed on his condolences to the family of Corporal Joshua Hoole who died during training in the Brecon Beacons area of Wales.
Captain Doug Beattie, who spent thirty four years in the military and remains a member of the Army Reserve, said:
“The British Infantry are some of the finest fighting soldiers in the world; they have a reputation for being dedicated and both mentally and physically robust. To be considered capable of attending the Platoon Sergeants Battle Course (PSBC) Corporal Joshua would have been considered one of The Rifles up and coming stars. Having completed the course when in my twenties I know how demanding a course it is. Having delivered pre PSBC training in the past I know just how dedicated and motivated those young men are and how much they relish the chance of being an Infantry Platoon Sergeant.
“Although the cause of Corporal Joshua’s death is still unknown it is important to stress that robust military training must remain safe training. No life is worth military excellence.
“The sacrifices our military show on operations, in support to the civil authorities or in training, are well known, and I call on the Executive yet again to instigate cooperation with the Armed Forces Covenant Working Group so they can truly represent our service community in Northern Ireland. In the meantime a family is mourning the tragic loss of their son and I can do no more than pass on my condolences from one soldier to the family of another.”