Private Johan Botha was a South African-born soldier and proud member of the newly-formed Mercian Regiment who died on 8 September, 2007, in a gun battle with Taliban forces.

Described as having ‘a real passion for soldiering’ Private Botha had little experience of serving overseas, yet his incredibly tough and robust performances in Afghanistan were highly thought of by high-ranking officers.

Commanding officer Major Jamie Nowell said: “Private Botha provided support and example to the younger soldiers around him; especially under fire where his calm, professional leadership and aggressive, robust response to enemy action were a testament to his character.”

Private Botha had moved to the UK with his wife in 2003 and enlisted in the Army in 2005, eventually joining the 1st Battalion, Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment in January, 2006.

He had recently been recommended for a junior commander's cadre by his Platoon Commander before his death in Afghanistan.

Involved in an operation to disrupt Taliban activity in the Garmsir region of Helmand province, Private Botha had displayed great bravery and commitment by continuing to fight although he was very seriously injured.

The patrol, made up of soldiers from 2nd Battalion, The Mercian Regiment (Worcesters and Foresters) had come under attack from enemy fire causing the deaths of both Private Botha and Nottinghamshire Sergeant Craig Brelsford.

Private Botha and Sergeant Brelsford were the third and fourth members of the 2nd Battalion, The Mercian Regiment, to fall in action since it changed its name from 1st Battalion the Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment (29th/45th of Foot) just one week before they died.

Private Botha’s Commanding Officer, Major Jamie Nowell, added: “Private Botha died as a soldier fighting with his friends. The loss of such a fine soldier, friend and colleague will live with the Company forever – he will not be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife, daughter and family at this time of intense loss.”

Platoon Commander Lieutenant Simon Cupples was also quick to praise Private Botha’s efforts and said: “He was a larger than life character. With a physically dominating frame and a loud personality he always had a presence wherever he was.

“He always worked hard and was never afraid to get into a fight with the enemy. He was also a devoted family man and constantly thought and spoke of his wife and daughter back home. It was clear that even though he loved his job, they were the main priority in his life. He died a true soldier.”

Private Kevin Latham, a friend and colleague, said: “Private Botha was a well loved and energetic man who loved his family, his mates, his job and his South African heritage. Private Botha died the way a true soldier should…. That's what Private Botha was like, always up for the scrap.”

Private Kyle Smith, another friend and colleague, added: “He was a character that everyone respected and also loved. He would put his friends first in any situation. There will be so much that will be missed about Private Botha but he will never be forgotten.”

Commenting on the deaths of both Private Botha and Sergeant Brelsford, Defence Secretary Des Browne said: “These brave men have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country and I am sure that they will be sorely missed by all who knew them. I would like to offer my sincere condolences to their families and friends, who are in my thoughts at this difficult time.”