Queen’s guard killed in fatal shooting named as ‘stalwart’ Sgt Gavin Hillier
A QUEEN’S guard killed in a fatal shooting accident has been named as Sergeant Gavin Hillier.
The Iraq war veteran was fatally wounded during a live firing exercise in Wales on Thursday night.
Sgt Hillier, 35, had served almost two decades in the elite Welsh Guards regiment and deployed to Afghanistan and Kosovo.
The MoD released his name on Saturday, once his next of kin had been informed.
Sgt Hillier, who received a long service and good conduct medal from Prince Charles, was killed on Thursday night at the Castlemartin ranges in Pembrokeshire.
He was taking part in a night firing exercise ahead of a planned deployment to Iraq.
His comrades paid tribute to an “awesome soldier” and his dad, Mark, said his son died doing the job he loved.
In a heart-breaking message on Facebook his dad wrote: “Absolutely devastated to be writing this post, probably the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do.
“At 3.45am this morning I received a phone call that will forever change my life.
“My eldest son Gavin Mark Hillier was in a fatal accident in the army, the job he loved.
“Sleep tight and rest in peace son. I’m so proud of you. Goodnight and God bless. love you’re heartbroken dad xxx.”
Welsh police and Defence Accidents Investigation Branch have opened an investigation and his next of kin have been informed.
“Such sad news to hear this morning, such a great leader and what a guy to work along side,” a fellow soldier said..
“RIP Gav, mate see you on the reorg.”
The Welsh Guards are a light infantry unit which also perform a ceremonial role to protect the Queen at Buckingham Palace and Windsor, where they are based.
They have fought in almost every British conflict since World War I, with the exception of the Korean War.
The regiment hailed him as a “stalwart” of the unit.
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“Since joining he has demonstrated the highest standards of behaviour for which is awarded the Long Service and Good Conduct Meda,” the regiment said in 2019.
He served in the regiment’s motor transport platoon, responsible for the battalion’s vehicles
An MOD Spokesperson said: “It is with great sadness we can confirm Sergeant Gavin Hillier from the 1st Battalion Welsh Guards died on 4th March 2021. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this tragic time.
“An investigation is underway and it would be inappropriate to comment further at this stage.“