MARINE Steven Birdsall, whose tragic death was reported yesterday (Wednesday) was 20 and had served with 40 Commando Royal Marines in Afghanistan since April.
Previously he had served in Brunei, Thailand, Cyprus and Turkey.
He died in the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham on Monday, after being airlifted from Afghanistan after being shot while on patrol in Sangin on Sunday afternoon.
Marine Birdsall was a former pupil of Great Sankey High School and lived in Great Sankey with his parents and younger sister, Melissa.
In a statement, his family said: “There are no words that could ever express the heartache of losing our beautiful son, Steven, who was always so selfless, brave and fearless.
“Loving brother to Melissa, grandson to Grandma, Granny and Granddad and a much loved nephew and cousin.
“Steven had so many friends back home in Warrington and in 40 Commando Royal Marines, and we are forever thankful to the lads who were with him when he needed them most. See you later mate, we are so very proud of you, love Mum and Dad.”
A former pupil of St Philip’s Primary School, Westbrook, Steven had lived in Warrington since he was four.
He was a talented footballer – and was playing for the Marines as soon as he joined them.
Tributes have poured in from his commanding officers and fellow Marines.
One, Marine David Shutler, said “Birdy” was quiet but with a huge personality.
He said: “He was strong, fit and very dependable. ‘Birdy’ always gave 100 per cent at all times, never dripping when times got hard.”
Warrington South MP David Mowat said: “I would like to extend my deepest sympathy to the parents,
friends and relatives of Steven Birdsall. His death is a tragedy and serves to
remind us all of the sacrifices made by our brave young men and women to make
our country safer. The whole of Warrington is very proud and sad this morning.”
