Local soldier in Afghanistan

A SOLDIER from Warrington has deployed to the front line of Afghanistan’s Helmand province for the second time, where he is playing an important role working as a combat engineer.
Lance Corporal Michael Forsdike, aged 24, is a member of 51 Parachute Squadron, 23 Engineer Regiment (Air Assault), Corps of Royal Engineers.
As such, he is part of a wider team responsible for building projects in dangerous locations, such as the construction of defensive positions, the building of bridges and the fortification of compounds while under fire.
Michael is a communications specialist and his specific role is as troop signaller, relaying important messages between his troop and the squadron headquarters. Not only does this allow Michael’s colleagues to receive orders and send urgent supply and equipment requests for the tasks they are undertaking, but it can also prove a vital lifeline back to the rest of the squadron.
He said: “In my job I use state of the art communications technology in order to provide a crucial link enabling command and control to take place. Playing such a key role in the team is very rewarding – but everyone plays their part and supports each other.
“I feel that the work we’re doing is of the utmost importance. We are improving living conditions for our own troops in their bases and for the local people. We are building good relationships with the locals and it is clear that they now understand our mission in Afghanistan, why we’re here and what we plan to achieve. I can certainly see progress since the last time I was here.”
Michael lives and was brought up in Warrington where, currently missing him, are his partner Ruth, daughter Ruby, three and his parents Maria and Tom. He attended Culcheth High School before joining the Army in 2006.
He has served one previous tour of Afghanistan, in 2008, and also among his career highlights is having completed “P Company”, the Army selection course for airborne forces.
Pictured: Michael at work in Helmand.