James Townley

British Captain James Townley, age 29, died on September 21, 2012, in Camp Bastion, Helmand Province, in southern Afghanistan from wounds sustained while serving at forward operating base Shawqat. 

He was with the Corps of Royal Engineers. He was on this third tour of Afghanistan. He was last deployed to Afghanistan on September 5, 2011, with 4 Armoured Engineer Squadron, 21 Engineer Regiment.

His death is being investigated as a suicide.

James was born in Tunbridge Wells and grew up near Glastonbury, in Somerset. 

James had attended University College, Oxford, and was awarded a first class degree in engineering and computer science. 

Father, place James on the
stairway to Heaven

He was an avid sportsman who enjoyed a wide variety of sports including skiing, mountain biking, kite surfing, sailing and rowing. 

Military officials describe him as unbelievably clever, an exceptional officer and a great character. He is also described as professional and charismatic. 

Family describe him as their guardian angel, their hero and a loving son and brother. 

James is survived by many loving friends and relatives including his parents, Peter and Jacqui; his brother, Nick; and his girlfriend, Helen. 

Let us pray that James Townley is in heaven. Let us pray that he is at peace and is with God. Amen.