Private C. David Murray

Charles David Murray was born in Dumfries and grew up in Carlisle. On leaving school at 16 in 2005 he went to the Army Foundation College at Harrogate. During this time he represented the College at Rugby during a tour of Australia.

Having passed P Company and completed his parachute course he joined 2 PARA in December 2006. During his time with 2 PARA he undertook specialist training as an Infantry Assault Engineer.

At approx 1100hrs local time on 8 June 2008, Pte ’Dave’ Murray was on patrol 1km west of his Forward Operating Base in the Upper Sangin Valley, when a suicide explosive device went off killing Pte Murray. He was 19 Years old.

Pte Daniel Gamble and Pte Nathan Cuthbertson also died in the same incident.

Private Lee Cunliffe recalled:

"Me and Dave joined the Army at the same time when we were 16 starting off at the Army Foundation College, Harrogate, before moving on to the Infantry Training Centre in Catterick. He was a really fit lad and used to come in the top two without fail. He was an excellent soldier and he won the best recruit award which he definitely deserved."

"We arrived in 2 PARA and were put into the same platoon and company. We became really good mates here and got to know each other even more. Me, Dave and Cuthy became best friends and we near enough did everything together. Last summer we went to Cyprus on holiday, that was the best holiday I have ever had, I am sure it was Dave's too, we were planning another holiday when we got back."

"I am truly sorry and gutted about what has happened to Dave. I have lost my best friend. He was an excellent soldier and man. I will never forget him and all the good times we had together."