PAUL COLLINSMarine Paul Collins, who died in Iraq on 6 May, 2007, aged 21, was a highly skilled Air Door Gunner serving with 847 Naval Air Squadron.Marine Collins quickly gained a reputation for his capabilities and constant professionalism. He was always polite and courteous, enthusiastic and determined in all he did.His fitness was exemplary and he was a hugely popular member of the Company with a wide circle of friends.His Commanding Officer described him as the 'epitome of what the Royal Marines represented'.Marine Paul Collins had always loved outdoor pursuits and wanted to be a Royal Marine from the age of 10.His ambition was nearly ruined when he sustained severe injuries in a motorcycle accident, but it is testimony to Marine Collins' strength and determination that he battled back to health.He joined the Royal Marines in June, 2003 and trained at the Commando Training Centre. He was awarded his green beret on 13 February, 2004, and became a member of M Company of 42 Commando Royal Marines. Marine Collins was appointed Team Radio Operator and was based at Bickleigh Barracks in Plymouth .In September, 2005, Marine Collins moved to 847 Naval Air Squadron based at Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton. He trained as an Air Door Gunner and was deploying to Norway in early 2006.He deployed to Iraq several months later in March, 2006.On 6 May, 2007, Marine Collins was on board a Lynx Mark helicopter flying low over central Basra to demonstrate the dangers that pilots might face. The aircraft was attacked, forcing it to crash into a two-storey house in central Basra .Marine Collins was killed in the incident that also claimed the lives of four of his colleagues, including the first woman to die in the conflict, Sarah-Jayne Mulvihill; the most senior officer to have been killed, Wing Commander John Coxen; Lieutenant Commander Darren Chapman and Captain David Dobson.An inquiry into the event concluded the aircraft was shot down by a surface-to-air missile from hostile forces. It was the first British military helicopter to be shot down in southern Iraq .Marine Collins leaves behind his parents and brother, Mark.His parents said: "Paul was a wonderful young man and so full of potential and zest for life. He was physically and mentally strong, though this was tempered by an intelligent, thoughtful and caring nature. Though his time with the Corps was only short he made many good friends and was never happier than being with his 'brothers in arms'.Colonel John McCardle Royal Marines, Commanding Officer Commando Helicopter Force, paid tribute to Marine Collins: "Paul was the epitome of what the Royal Marines represent. A fit, intelligent young man he was totally professional, in every thing he did and enjoyed life to the full. He was an extremely popular member of both his squadron and throughout the Commando Helicopter Force."
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