We will never forget, vows soldier’s widow (From The Northern Echo)

We will never forget, vows soldier’s widow

10:24am Monday 6th December 2010 in News By Mark Tallentire

A VILLAGE has paid a moving collective tribute to one of its own killed while serving in Afghanistan.

A plaque was unveiled in honour of Serjeant Steven Campbell, of Pelton, near Chester-le-Street, County Durham, at Pelton Community Centre during an emotional ceremony on Saturday morning.

The tribute was led by Sjt Campbell’s widow, Lisa, 34, and son Brandon, ten, who have vowed never to forget their husband and “superdad”.

Mrs Campbell said: “It’s wonderful that everyone who knew and loved Steven will be able to see the plaque and think of him.

“Steven was a huge part of this community and we will never forget him.

“Brandon and I miss him every single day and his friends and family do as well.

The plaque is really near our home and he deserves to be remembered.”

Mrs Campbell’s mother, Kathleen, said: “With Steven’s inquest and the plaque unveiling, it’s been a really upsetting week. But it was a fantastic time. The community centre has been really helpful.”

Sjt Campbell, of 3 Rifles, was described by Lieutenant Colonel Nick Kitson, Commanding Officer of 3 Rifles, as “one of the Army’s rarest treasures”.

The 30-year-old died near Sangin, Afghanistan, on March 22, when the quad bike he was using to pull a trailer of mortar and ammunition between bases was blown up by Taliban insurgents on a vulnerable bridge.

An inquest into his death, held last week, heard British forces had reinforced the bridge with metal girders, but the steel supports left the Army’s metal detectors unable to locate bombs.

The bomber hid a command wire underwater, concealed the deadly device under the bridge and watched from 100 yards away.

The memorial plaque was organised with the help of Pelton councillors. It is inscribed with Sjt Campbell’s name, details, the 3 Rifles’ motto “Swift and Bold” and a message from his widow and son: “A dear husband of Lisa and a dear dad of Brandon.

Love you always.”

Moves are now afoot to add Sjt Campbell’s name to the Pelton Fell war memorial and his family have been invited to Downing Street later this month.