The family of soldier Damian Davies today spoke of their heartbreak and pride for the Shropshire father.

Marine Davies, whose parents Ken and Maddison Davies live in Wrockwardine Wood, Telford, said he would be hugely missed.

In a statement issued through the Royal Marines, Mr and Mrs Davies said: “Damian was the youngest of six children and will be hugely missed; we loved him so very, very much.

• See also: Tragedy of blast victim Marine
• See also: Pals tell of big-hearted Damian

“Despite being a tough and brave Royal Marine he will always be our little baby; may he now rest in the loving arms of Jesus.”

The marine was known as Damo and spent time serving alongside his brother Warren “Bunny” Davies, a sergeant in the Royal Marines. 

Sergeant Davies, who is based in Lympstone, Devon, said: “Damian was a very much loved member of our family who had an unselfish and positive outlook on life.  

“He was a true family man, a warm and generous human being with a heart of gold who brought joy and hope to everyone; we are all extremely proud of him.

“I had the honour and privilege of serving with my brother during his service in the Royal Marines. The corps has lost a brilliant marine and we the family have lost a wonderful son, brother, husband, father, grandson, uncle, nephew and true friend. We shall remember him,” added Mr Davies. 

Marine Davies also had an older brother Jason, who died as a baby, brothers Carl and Austin, and a sister Ceri. 

He met his wife Joanne through his sister Ceri on a night out in Shrewsbury in 2003. They married in Telford in 2005 and have a 19-month-old son, Matthew. She said today her husband had received confirmation from her that she was pregnant with their second child shortly before he died.

Joanne added: “The thought that remains with me is Damian’s joy of seeing our son Matthew’s development since the last time we had all been together. 

“On Damian’s return to Afghanistan I discovered that I was pregnant and immediately sent him a letter to let him know. 

“Damian is going to leave a huge hole in all of our lives but both his son and his unborn child will grow up to be proud of the Royal Marine father who was so tragically taken from them serving his country.”

By Jo Cunningham