Lance Corporal James Stewart Freeman Dies During UK-US Training Exercise in Erbil

Lance Corporal James Stewart Freeman, 29, from the Royal Anglian Regiment, died on Sunday during a joint training exercise with US forces in Erbil, northern Iraq. The Ministry of Defence confirmed his death, noting he was participating in a “routine training activity” as part of Operation Shader, the UK’s deployment against the Islamic State group.

Defence Secretary John Healey issued a statement acknowledging Freeman’s service to the country “with dedication, professionalism and pride.” The US Army also confirmed the death of one of its soldiers during the same exercise.

Based at Kendrew Barracks in Rutland, Lance Corporal Freeman joined the Army in 2016. His extensive service record included deployments to South Sudan, Cyprus, the Falklands, Jordan, Romania, and Kenya. He held roles as a rifleman, mortarman, and machine gunner, with his most recent appointment being Section Second in Command within the Assault Pioneer Platoon.

The Ministry of Defence described him as “deeply invested in this role,” constantly advocating for improvements to techniques and equipment, and possessing “a promising career ahead of him.” Tributes from colleagues highlighted his character; Colonel James WHM Bishop, commander of Operation Shader, called him “larger than life and magnetically charming,” while Lieutenant Samuel Frost referred to him as “one of the best.”

Beyond his military contributions, Freeman was remembered as “a lover of the outdoors” who frequently shared stories of clay pigeon shooting with his father. Above all, he was described as “a devoted family man,” a sentiment reiterated by his peers, who extended profound sympathy to his wife and daughter.