Bomb disposal expert's own sacrifice

Lance Corporal David Timmins, a bomb disposal specialist with the Royal Logistics Corps, lost his right eye and suffered head, liver and kidney damage as a result of an improvised explosive device.

Only days earlier L-Cpl Timmins saved the life of a colleague who was seriously injured after an explosion, an act for which he received the Queen's Gallantry Medal.

The medal citation read: "Throughout his deployment, L-Cpl Timmins's incredible commitment was pivotal to the sustainment of the enduring fighting spirit of the Joint Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group.

"His actions and selfless sacrifice are in the very finest traditions of the Service."

Speaking of his medal award, L-Cpl Timmins said: "I wasn't expecting any of this so it came as a complete shock and surprise."