Tribute paid to ‘pioneer’ Ranger Aaron McCormick

Monday 6th December 2010, 11:29AM GMT.

The funeral cortege for Ranger Aaron McCormick of the 1 Royal Irish Regiment arrives at St. Mary's Parish Church, in Macosquin, Co. Londonderry
The funeral cortege for Ranger Aaron McCormick of the 1 Royal Irish Regiment arrives at St. Mary's Parish Church, in Macosquin, Co. Londonderry

Hundreds of people gathered to pay their respects at the funeral of a Shropshire serviceman who was killed in an explosion in Afghanistan on Remembrance Sunday.

Ranger Aaron McCormick, 22, of the 1st Battalion The Royal Irish Regiment, based at Tern Hill near Market Drayton, was helping detect roadside bombs in Helmand’s Nad-e-Ali area when he died in an explosion.

His funeral took place on Saturday in the village of Macosquin, County Londonderry, which included a burial with full military honours.

Reverend Mike Roemmele, Church of Ireland minister, told mourners at St Mary’s Parish Church: “In every aspect of his military life he was a pioneer who cleared the way that others might follow him.

“In serving his country he also served the people of Afghanistan for whom he had great compassion. Judged by his deeds, he did not fall short.

“Today we honour him and express our pride in him.”

Ranger McCormick’s close relatives, his mother Maggie, father Lesley, brother Michael, sisters Tammy and Callie-Ann, and girlfriend Beckie, led mourners.

Four of his friends paid special tribute to him in the church and introduced songs which reflected his courageous character.

Regimental colleagues also attended the service.

Video News From ITN

TWITTER

Shropshire Star on Twitter Shropshire Star on Twitter

Keep updated with the latest breaking news and content on our Twitter feed.

Lifestyle

Interactive Dining Out map Interactive Dining Out map

Hundreds of reviews by the Shropshire Star and Express & Star's teams to help you decide where to eat.

Entertainment

All the film reviews All the film reviews

Before you plan a trip to the pictures, get our critics' verdicts on all the latest movie releases.

OUR NEW APP

Get the new Shropshire Star app Get the new Shropshire Star app

Download the Shropshire Star’s new app to your iPad or iPhone to get one week of access to our digital newspapers absolutely FREE.