Soldier killed in Salisbury Plain incident named by MoD
Second Lieutenant Max George died on Tuesday (21st June)
Tributes have been paid to the soldier who died after he was struck by an armoured vehicle during a training exercise on Salisbury Plain.
26 year old Second Lieutenant Max George, who served with the 5th battalion The Rifles at Bulford, passed away at the scene of the incident near Tidworth on Tuesday morning (21st June).
He was on foot when he was involved in a collision with a Warrior armoured vehicle.
The Ministry of Defence has released a statement, describing 2Lt George as 'humble, grounded, keen and energetic', adding that he was 'tough and compassionate' which 'his Riflemen loved him for'.
He joined 5 Rifles as a commissioned officer in December 2021, following service with reservist forces.
The MoD say his time as a reserve soldier was 'exemplary' and was awarded the Queen's Medal during his time in training.
Major Joe Murray, Officer Commanding D Company, 5 RIFLES said:
"Max stood out from the crowd, and although he would have innately hated that, it was true. Diligent, bright-eyed, and quick off the mark, he slotted into his role commanding 13 Platoon from the off; we were only starting to understand Max’s exceptional potential. Unassuming and meticulous, Max needed very little time to bed into his role.
"Jumping feet first into battalion life, Max gripped command of his platoon from the outset. His care for his Rifleman was evident from his frequent and insightful questions about how he could best care for them. Incredibly fit, Max was a natural and immediate addition to the 5 RIFLES’ Warrior Fitness Team, demonstrating to his platoon the qualities he expected of them. Max was at the very forefront of his peer group in terms of ability. Marked out at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst for his intellect, all round military ability and practical performance, he was awarded the Queen’s Medal, not that he would have let you know in conversation. These qualities were clear from the start and throughout his tragically short time with D Company.
"Max’s death will leave a gaping hole in 13 Platoon and the wider company, who have benefitted enormously from the care and leadership he was so ably providing. Martin, Vivienne, Claudia and the wider family, our hearts go out to you.
"D Company have a time-honoured tradition of maintaining links with those who move on from the Company, in that tradition; 2Lt Max George, once a dog, always a dog."
Lt Joe Hayes, Officer Commanding 14 Platoon, D Company, 5 RIFLES said:
"Max George was an exceptional man. I knew Max not only as a fellow platoon commander within D Company but also as a dear friend. Max was an individual who was easy to get along with and someone who I could speak openly with about anything. Max and I shared a brotherhood only few will have the honour of understanding. Platoon Commanders in The Rifles are expected to display humility and a selfless approach to the individuals they command. Max displayed all these qualities.
"Max was a diligent individual whose attention to detail was remarkable. Anything he set his mind to he excelled at, and this is only further testament to his tenacious character. Max was not only adored by his peers but also the Riflemen within his command. Max loved his job, and this was clear to see by all. Max’s drive and determination wore off on all within the chain of command around him; as a fellow Platoon Commander it was clear that 13 Platoon was in safe hands. He made me want to strive to be the best alongside him.
"Max will be sorely missed by the Regiment, his brother officers and the entirety of D Company."
Defence Secretary, Ben Wallace said:
"The passing of 2Lt George is an especially poignant reminder, as we mark Armed Forces Week, that our service personnel are always in harm’s way working to keep us safe. We are forever grateful.
"Max exemplified all the qualities the Army stands for and as the testimonies show, we have lost a bright and talented young man who will be sorely missed. My thoughts are with his family, his friends, and his regiment during this difficult time."
An investigation into 2Lt George's death is ongoing, led by Wiltshire Police alongside the Army and Health and Safety Executive.