A British Army member tragically lost their life in a training mishap in the northern region of Iraq. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) confirmed the incident occurred on May 30 and has informed the service person’s family. The MoD has requested a period of privacy before disclosing further details and expressed condolences to the bereaved family and friends.
Defence Secretary John Healey conveyed the sad news in the House of Commons on Monday, extending sympathies to the family and the unit affected by the loss. Some British personnel are still stationed in Iraq as part of Operation Shader, the UK’s effort within the international coalition against the resurgence of the Islamic State group in the area.
This incident follows the death of Captain Philip Gilbert Muldowney, 25, on January 25 at the Otterburn Training Area in Northumberland. Capt Muldowney, originally from Co Roscommon, served as a fire support commander in the 4th Regiment Royal Artillery. He joined the British Army in January 2020 and completed his commission into the Royal Artillery in December 2020 after training at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.
An inquest revealed that Capt Muldowney suffered a gunshot wound believed to have entered through his back and exited through his left shoulder. The inquiry was adjourned pending investigations by Northumbria Police, the Health and Safety Executive, and the Defence Safety Authority.
The MoD praised Capt Muldowney as a dedicated officer known for his vibrant approach to life.
