The cause of the fire is currently under investigation. It is not thought to be the result of enemy action.

Private Robert Wood

Private Robert Wood was born on 24 June 1982. He joined the RLC as a Driver Port Operator on 26 July 2001 and on completion of his training was posted to 17 Port and Maritime Regiment Royal Logistic Corps, his military home in Marchwood, Hampshire. From the very outset his presence and work ethic was clear for all to see.

Private Wood’s fortitude and cheerful ‘Wilco’ approach optimises the very essence of what it takes to be an Army Stevedore. A proud and professional Port Operator, he would always be there to lend a hand, team work being an essential element to loading or discharging shipping. A very recent and proud father, he constantly thought of his new family and gained strength from the thought of returning to them.

Private Wood was part of the Theatre Logistic Group’s Transport Troop, a vital link in the logistic support to operations, when he was caught by a fire that took hold within his workplace, tragically claiming his life.

A hugely popular figure, Private Robert Wood – ‘Woody’ to his friends – will leave a void behind him that will be difficult to fill. The loss that will be felt by those in the Theatre Logistic Group and 17 Port and Maritime Regiment will pale to that of his proud parents and Rebecca, the mother of his beloved son, Noah. Private Wood was a caring and thoughtful man with a strong heart who will be sorely missed and forever remembered by all who knew him.

The family of Private Wood have made the following statement:

“Rob was an adored and adoring son, partner, and father to his baby son. We are so immensely proud of him and he will live in our hearts forever.”

Lieutenant Colonel ST Hutchings, Commanding Officer Theatre Logistic Group, said:

“Private Wood was part of a little-known, but highly specialist, trade within the Army. As a proud and professional Port Operator he had a key role in supporting operations worldwide. He was one of our up and coming Stevedores. Experienced and committed, he had recently be selected for promotion. Volunteering for operations, again, he was keen to do his bit and demonstrate his wider skills.

“He had that innate ability to make friends easily, hugely popular and fiercely proud of being a Port Operator, he was making a difference on a daily basis. My regiment has lost a unique and special person, but our loss is nothing compared to that of his parents and partner, Rebecca, who are in our thoughts right now.”

Major Steve Cornell, Officer Commanding General Support Squadron, said:

“Private Wood was a strong character with a sense of humour that shone through in the toughest of times. Immensely proud of his new son, Private Wood was also proud of his service in the Corps.

“An integral part of the Squadron and excellent at his trade, he made a positive impact at whatever he turned his hand to. He will be sorely missed.”

Lieutenant Tim Fitzgerald, Troop Commander Transport Troop, said:

“Private Wood was the sort of soldier who made my life easy. A highly dependable and kind-hearted man, the other privates looked up to and respected him. Only with us a short time, no amount of time is long enough to know a man like him. Our thoughts go out to his parents, girlfriend, Bex, and son, Noah, for whom he was an excellent son, partner and father.”

Staff Sergeant Mike Temple, Senior Non-Commissioned Officer (SNCO) Transport Troop, said:

“Woody was one of the key members of the small but committed RTCH section within Transport Troop. He was also a Port Operator by trade and he will be sorely missed within the close-knit Port Op world. No matter what you threw at him, he would always keep his chin up and crack on. Our thoughts go out to his family.”

Lance Corporal Taff Williams said:

“Although I had only known Woody for a short time, he will never be forgotten. He hit it off well with everyone he met and was easily likable. He was a proud soldier but he was even prouder of his newborn son, Noah. He will be missed by all who had the pleasure of meeting and working with him. Rest well.”

Lance Corporal Raj Singh said:

“I have known Woody or ‘Big Chin’ for three years. I can confidently say he was a pleasure to work with and know. He was dedicated to his job and his new family. Apart from his professionalism at work he always loved to be amongst his workmates and was a good friend and guide.

“I will keep with me the many funny stories of him doing crazy stuff. He will be remembered forever as a family orientated and proud father, and as a good friend.”