Brother's tribute for 'hero' soldier

The brother of a British soldier shot dead in southern Afghanistan paid an emotional tribute today to his "best friend and hero".

Sergeant Jonathan Mathews, 35, from Edinburgh, was on foot patrol in Helmand Province on July 28 when his party came under Taliban fire.

The soldier, from The Highlanders, 4th Battalion, the Royal Regiment of Scotland, attached to the 1st Battalion Royal Irish Regiment, is survived by his wife Shona, daughter Meghan and stepson William.

More than 350 mourners gathered today to pay their last respects to the devoted family man at a funeral service at the Sacred Heart Roman Catholic Church in Penicuik, Mid-Lothian.

During the service, David Mathews recounted childhood memories of his brother and said his family was his "greatest love and passion".

He went on: "He was a proud Royal Scot and finally sergeant in the Royal Regiment of Scotland.

"It has been written this week that Jon died doing what he loved. This is very true, and we are proud of him.

"In my eyes, he was fearless and courageous beyond measure. I will miss him, but so will so many of us here."

He added finally: "Jon, you will always be, and you always have been, my brother, my best friend and my hero."

The coffin, draped in the Union flag, was carried into the church by a bearer party of soldiers to the sound of Amazing Grace.

Family members, friends and colleagues packed into every available space, with many having to stand in the aisles of the packed-out church.
Father Stephen Sharkey told the congregation Sgt Mathews would be remembered as a man who selflessly gave his life to help others.

He said: "Jon was described to me by his family as a fun-loving character who was loved by all his friends and family.

"He was a caring man who was well respected by all the soldiers who served with him."

Fr Sharkey quoted Sgt Mathews' commanding officer in Afghanistan, Major Rob Armstrong, who had described the popular soldier as being "loyal, compassionate and extremely capable".

He said: "He would always lead by example and sacrifice his comforts for those of his men. This inevitably endeared him to the other soldiers.

"He was popular, well respected and a pleasure to have under command.

"He was a man I could always depend on. Sgt Mathews completed all tasks
with equal passion.

"Having been involved in numerous contacts with Sgt Mathews, I would confidently place my life in his hands, as I so often had to, knowing that he would look after all of us.

"I will always think of him as a real gentleman soldier and I will miss the banter.

"He was hard and aggressive in battle, but compassionate and thoughtful when required.

"He was the complete package."

Addressing the soldier's family members, including his parents Bill and Anne, Fr Sharkey added: "I know your hearts are broken but your hearts are also bursting with pride.

"Jon gave his life for others, helping others.

"Jon selflessly served his country with great cost."