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thxnews · 1 year ago

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Farewell to Major Kevin McCool (34): A Tribute

In a tragic turn of events, the Ministry of Defence announced the untimely death of Major Kevin McCool, who passed away while off-duty in Kenya on November 29, 2023.

A Life of Dedication

Major Kevin McCool, born on November 16, 1991, and commissioned from Sandhurst on August 9, 2014, embodied dedication to the military cause. A Global Service Record Kevin's military journey was marked by outstanding commitment. Thriving in challenging environments, he served in Europe, the Middle East, the Falklands, and Africa, leaving an indelible mark wherever duty called.

A Resilient Warrior

Excelling in some of the military's toughest courses, Kevin's legendary fitness and endurance were unmatched. He once outpaced an entire Battalion in a two-miler, showcasing his exceptional physical prowess. Infectious Enthusiasm Beyond his professional prowess, Kevin's infectious enthusiasm and mischievous twinkle made him a joy to be around. His sense of purpose was evident, earning him unwavering loyalty from recruits in his Catterick Platoon and his Rifle Company.

A Family Man Remembered

A devoted family man from a large, loving family, Kevin is survived by his parents, Joseph and Joan, and his siblings, Fergal, Brendan, May, Alice, and Margaret. In every mission and training, Major Kevin McCool stood out as a dedicated soldier, a resilient warrior, and a beloved family man. His legacy lives on in the hearts of those he served with, leaving behind a void that can never be filled.

Comments

Maj McCool’s Commanding Officer said: Kevin McCool was living his best life, doing a job he loved, with people he loved. A man of the utmost integrity, he was fearless and oozed moral courage. I will never forget my final memory of him, which was on operations; he had just come off the ground having slept a handful of hours in as many days. We discussed the possibility of having to deploy another team into the operational furnace from which he had just come. He stopped me mid-sentence, fixed me with his piercing blue eyes, and simply said, “send me”. A bright light has gone out amongst our ranks. He will be missed, but never forgotten. Major McCool’s Officer Commanding said: Kevin McCool’s eyes shone with his spirit of adventure and with his focussed, determined nature. He was a pilgrim soul in the truest sense. Intelligent, pro-active and selfless, he was at his best and at his happiest whilst serving others and whilst facing challenges “in the arena”. As a soldier, his courage and talent were proven on operations. As a leader, he had a compelling character and easy charm that all who met him warmed to. And as a man, he had a deep humility which displayed a wisdom beyond his years. Spotting opportunities, restless to serve and to seek out challenges, pushing himself to the frontiers, helping others; that is how we will remember him. He was the best of us. The Secretary of State for Defence, Grant Shapps, said: It’s clear from the tributes of those who knew him that Major McCool was an exceptional person and an exceptional soldier, loved and respected in equal measure, who served his country with distinction. My thoughts and sympathies are with his family, friends, and colleagues currently coming to terms with this most tragic loss. Sources: THX News & Ministry of Defence & The Rt Hon Grant Shapps MP. Read the full article

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