Local MP, Mike Penning, has paid tribute to the courage and bravery of Hemel Hempstead man Senior Aircraftman Ryan Tomlin who died at Camp Bastion after being fatally injured in small arms fire. Ryan had been on a routine patrol in the western dashte area of Nad 'Ali in Helmand province, Afghanistan.

Mike Penning sends his deepest condolences to the family and friends at this time.
He said:
“It is very sad to hear the news of a local young man losing his life whilst on patrol in Afghanistan. My heart goes out to the family and friends of this courageous and brave young airman.

“By all accounts he had a bright future ahead of him in the RAF Regiment and was noted as an exceptional marksman. Ryan has made the ultimate sacrifice serving the people of the United Kingdom – helping improve the lives of the people of Afghanistan and at the same time making our country safer for the rest of us. All of us owe him a great debt – one which we will not forget.

“My prayers and thoughts are with his loved ones at this incredibly difficult time.”