Lance Corporal Kenneth Rowe

LCpl Ken Rowe joined the Army in Newcastle on 7 March 2005. He successfully completed his Phase 1 training at ATR Winchester in June 2005, and his Phase 2 dog training in July 2005. He quickly went on to establish himself as a dog handler and trainer of the highest order, deploying to Northern Ireland. He deployed to Afghanistan in March 2008.

Following the death of LCpl Rowe on Thursday 24 July 2008, 2 PARA's Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Joe O'Sullivan, and CO 104 Military Working Dog Support Unit, Major Chris Ham RAVC, paid the following tribute:

"On the evening of 24th July LCpl Rowe’s Company deployed forward from their base in northern Helmand to prevent the Taliban from threatening the security of Helmand River Valley and the immediate vicinity of the base. As an Ammunition and Explosives Search Dog Handler, LCpl Rowe was an integral part of 2 PARA’s capability to conduct effective search operations.

"His job was to accompany patrols within the local area and to identify stocks of weapons, ammunition and explosives before they could be employed against ISAF forces or injure local people. This work inevitably placed both him and his dog in high risk situations on a regular basis. A fully integrated and popular member of the team, he had a pivotal role in support of the Company’s operations.

"On the evening of 24th July both LCpl Rowe and his dog, Sasha, lost their lives in a contact with the enemy whilst conducting a search operation. He died supporting his colleagues in a situation that required his customary composure and professionalism in handling his dog whilst facing a substantial threat from the enemy. In doing so he demonstrated all of the spirit, dedication and bravery of both his own unit and the Company of which he had become an integral part. He will be remembered as a man with a genuine passion for his work and a true professional with an infectious enthusiasm.

"As a specialist soldier working with 2 PARA, his services were vital and in constant demand, and with full knowledge of the risks involved, he never failed to deliver. LCpl Rowe was a promising NCO with a bright future. Our thoughts are very much with his family at this difficult time. 2 PARA’s task in Helmand will continue with vigour in his memory and his legacy to the Battalion’s work in Afghanistan will never be forgotten."

Lance Corporal Kenneth Michael Rowe of the Royal Army Veterinary Corps, attached to 2nd Battalion, The Parachute Regiment, died on 24 July 2008.