Tributes To 'Exceptional' Marine

The funeral of an outstanding'' andexceptional'' Royal Marine who died while out running in the hills has taken place. Luke Ireland was found dead in the Glen Cova area of Angus on November 14 following a large-scale search after he went missing during a run the previous day. The 20-year-old, from Monifieth, was a serving Marine with Arbroath-based 45 Commando and was described by his family as a care-free and fun-loving person'' during the service today. Mourners at St Luke's Church in Broughty Ferry heard a eulogy in which his parents Paul and Carol, and his brother Nathan, said:His zest for life and his positive spirit was infectious; he was and will continue to be, a role model to many." As a family we are immensely proud of Luke as he put his all into everything he did and he thoroughly enjoyed everything about his life - especially his family and friends. Taken from us far too early but still with us in everything we do. Always in our hearts.'' Lt Col Dan Cheesman, Commanding Officer of 45 Commando Group, said:The untimely death of Royal Marine Luke Ireland in the mountains of Glen Clova has come as a tremendous shock to all who knew him. Luke's insatiable sense of humour, zest for life and moral courage made him an outstanding Royal Marines Commando." Reliable, intelligent and incredibly fit, he made the most of his time with Zulu Company. In his first assignment since training, he impressed from the outset. He excelled in his role as a general purpose machine gunner, revelled in taking part in a recent unit exercise in California and was looking forward to deploying to Belize to conduct jungle training in the new year."I have no doubt that he would have achieved his aspiration to become an elite Royal Marines mountain leader." Luke's passing is a significant blow to 45 Commando and the Royal Marines. For one so junior he was extraordinarily popular and well-regarded. The thoughts and prayers of the whole unit are with his family and friends at this particularly difficult time.'' The young Marine was also described asunselfish, determined and committed'' who would be remembered for his magnificent sense of humour and constant grin''. Royal Navy engineering technician Cameron McGill, who was also a close school friend, said:He was the life and soul of everything we did and could always be counted on to bring humour to any situation." He was a true gentleman and a great friend to everyone who knew him. Luke was an inspiration to all and I am a better person for having been his friend."He may be gone, but he is not forgotten and will be greatly missed. Rest in peace Luke, see you at the last meet.''