Repatriation of Senior Airman 23.02.12
7The body of a Senior Aircraftman from 2 Squadron Royal Air Force has been flown home to the UK after he died at the field hospital in Camp Bastion. 21 year-old Ryan Tomlin was hit by small arms fire during an insurgent attack in the Western Dashte area of Nad-e Ali. His commanding officer described him as bright, gifted and an absolute master of his craft. The family of SAC Tomlin said: "Ryan loved and lived life to the full. He gave his life at a very young age doing the job he loved. Ryan will be sorely missed by his family and friends and everyone who loved him. "We will remember his cheeky grin and great sense of humour. Ryan will be forever young and never forgotten. Our true hero and shining star." Wing Commander Jason Sutton OBE, Commanding Officer, No. 3 RAF Force Protection Wing, said: "Senior Aircraftman Tomlin was one of the finest men on my wing and his loss has come as a terrible blow to all of us, especially his comrades on his beloved 2 Squadron, Royal Air Force Regiment. Bright, gifted and an absolute master of his craft, he had the complete trust of those who had the privilege of serving alongside him."