The British Army has paid tribute to an ‘ever-ambitious’ soldier who was killed in a motorbike crash while on a home visit earlier this month.
Fusilier Jordan Thomas, 25, was described as a ‘Welsh Warrior’ by top brass after he was tragically killed in the crash on March 16 – and had dreams of climbing Mount Everest.
Fusilier Thomas died after the motorcycle he was riding crashed in his hometown of Cwmbran, Gwent.
The Royal Welsh soldier served in Estonia and Germany, with his regiment remembering him as ‘ever-ambitious’ and ‘craved challenge’.
At the time of his death, he had been in training to become a junior non-commissioned officer (JNCO) – the first leadership rank of the British Army and a role responsible for leading and training other soldiers.
In a statement the regiment said: ‘His humble nature and will to succeed would have made him an excellent JNCO. Jordan’s outstanding work ethic and professionalism are only part of what defined his time in 1 R Welsh.
‘Because of the nature of military training and the work we do in the infantry there exist unique opportunities for young soldiers to become the best of friends in a way that differs from friendships that exist in the civilian world,’ they added.
‘Jordan carried these friendships out of the workspace and was a key social figure amongst his colleagues. In his spare time he was often to be found on the driving range or the green playing golf with his friends from the battalion.
‘Jordan was a good, honest, loyal friend and he always went out of his way to help others if they were struggling. He was ambitious and always looked to test himself.’
It was also revealed Jordan had an ambition to climb Mount Everest once he got the funds.
‘This loss is a massive blow to the regiment. To lose an exceptional person and excellent soldier in such difficult circumstances is very hard to take and his closest friends in the regiment are devastated,’ they added.
His family said he ‘was and always will be loved by everyone who knew him.’
‘Jordan was a beloved brother, uncle, fiancé, and dear friend who will be missed by all. We as a family have been truly overwhelmed by the support shown and the many kind words that have been shared by those who knew our precious boy.
‘During this very difficult time, we kindly request we are given the time to process and grieve what has happened to our gorgeous boy.’
Gwent Police is asking for support from the public with its inquiries regarding what happened to Mr Thomas.
A spokesman for the force said: ‘We’re asking for anyone who witnessed the collision or has relevant dashcam or CCTV footage on Cwmbran Drive on March 16 between 1.30 pm and 2.15 pm to get in touch.’
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