‘Kind and compassionate’ soldier, 18, dies at North Yorkshire army base

A young soldier has died aged just 18 at an army base following a ‘non-operational incident.’

The Ministry of Defence have confirmed the death of Private Joshua Kennington of the Royal Logistic Corps who died on November 24 this year.

Private Kennington died following a ‘non-operational incident’ at Catterick Garrison in Richmond, North Yorkshire, which is the largest British Army garrison in the world.

His family have described him as a person ‘much loved by family and friends’ and who always ‘had time for others’.

Private Joshua Kennington, 18, (pictured) died following a ‘non-operational incident’ at Catterick Garrison in Richmond, North Yorkshire

They said: ‘Tragically taken from us far too soon, much loved by family and friends, Josh was kind, compassionate, always having time for others and putting them first constantly striving to push himself to be better.

‘He died doing what he loved. Not a goodbye from us, wherever you will be you will always be in our hearts.’

Major Tony Morgan, the officer commanding 35 Squadron, 5 Medical Regiment said that Private Kennington was a ‘spirited individual’ and ‘an excellent soldier.’

He said: ‘Private Josh Kennington was a young and popular member of 35 Medical Squadron.

‘He had only been with the Squadron for a short time, but his good humoured and likeable nature made him an instant hit.

‘A spirited individual, always willing to do what was needed, Private Kennington was an excellent soldier and a proud RLC Driver, the epitome of our most talented younger generation.

‘His death is a sad loss, at such a young age and at the beginning of a bright military career ahead of him.

Private Kennington was a member of 35 Medical Squadron based at Catterick Garrison Headquarters in Yorkshire (pictured)

‘Although this is a sad moment for all that knew Private Kennington, we do feel fortunate to have known and to have served alongside this soldier.

‘He will be missed; he will be celebrated and he will be remembered by all those within 35 Medical Squadron.’

Dr Andrew Murrison, the minister for defence people, veterans and service families said: ‘It is with deep sadness that I learnt of the death of Private Josh Kennington of 5 Medical Regiment, Royal Logistic Corps.

‘He displayed a natural aptitude for soldiering and it’s clear from his colleagues that he was admired and respected by all those he served with, irrespective of their rank.

‘Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones at this difficult time.’

Eight Catterick-based soldiers have died either by suicide or unexpectedly since 2018. 

A Ministry of Defence spokesman said an investigation into the death of Private Kennington’s was ongoing.