A hero soldier was killed in a motorbike crash on home leave before his plans to climb Mount Everest.
Fusilier Jordan Thomas, 25, was described as a ‘Welsh Warrior’ after he tragically died in the crash.
The British Army has paid tribute to the Royal Welsh soldier, who was killed in his home town after serving in Estonia and Germany.
Fusilier Thomas, who was engaged to be married, died after the motorcycle he was riding crashed in Cwmbran, Gwent.
The Royal Welsh regiment said he served for five years, was ‘ever-ambitious’ and ‘craved challenge’.
At the time of his death, he had been training to become a junior non-commissioned officer (JNCO) – the first leadership rank of the British Army and a role responsible for leading and training other soldiers.
In a statement, the regiment said: ‘His humble nature and will to succeed would have made him an excellent JNCO.
‘Jordan’s outstanding work ethic and professionalism are only part of what defined his time in 1 R Welsh.
Fusilier Jordan Thomas, 25, (pictured) was described as a ‘Welsh Warrior’ after he was tragically killed in a motorbike crash
‘Because of the nature of military training and the work we do in the infantry there exist unique opportunities for young soldiers to become the best of friends in a way that differs from friendships that exist in the civilian world.
‘Jordan carried these friendships out of the work space and was a key social figure amongst his colleagues. In his spare time he was often to be found on the driving range or the green playing golf with his friends from the battalion.
‘Jordan was a good, honest, loyal friend and he always went out of his way to help others if they were struggling. He was ambitious and always looked to test himself.
‘He loved being outdoors so his next ambition was to climb Mount Everest once he scraped together the funds. Jordan was loved for who he was. He had a heart of gold and a strong mind.
‘This loss is a massive blow to the regiment. To lose an exceptional person and excellent soldier in such difficult circumstances is very hard to take and his closest friends in the regiment are devastated.
‘His memory will be honoured in 1 R Welsh as a kind and caring individual. He will be sadly missed but incredibly well-remembered.’
The Royal Welsh regiment said he served for five years – and was ‘ever-ambitious’ and ‘craved challenge’
In a heartbreaking tribute, Mr Thomas’ family said: ‘On Sunday, March 16, our lives changed forever as we lost our beautiful son Jordan Thomas. He was and always will be loved by everyone who knew him.
‘Jordan was a beloved brother, uncle, fiancé, and dear friend who will be missed by all. We as a family have been truly overwhelmed by the support shown and the many kind words that have been shared by those who knew our precious boy.
‘During this very difficult time we kindly request we are given the time to process and grieve what has happened to our gorgeous boy.’
Gwent Police is asking for support from the public with its inquiries regarding what happened to Mr Thomas.
A spokesman for the force said: ‘We’re asking for anyone who witnessed the collision or has relevant dashcam or CCTV footage on Cwmbran Drive on Sunday between 1.30pm and 2.15pm to get in touch.’
