British Soldier Who Saved Afghans in Kabul Pullout Is Found Dead at Age 20

“We looked out for each other and our families on operations; so, we must continue to do this at home,” commander said.

One of the youngest soldiers to take part in the 2021 evacuation of Kabul has passed away at age 20, British forces announced. Private Kieran Steven Heaney, who was 18 during the evacuation, was found unresponsive in the barracks this month, according to his commanders in the Royal Yorkshire Regiment.

“He was known for his bravery, positivity, and courage in and out of the boxing ring. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues,” the regiment said in a statement.

Private Heaney’s efforts during Operation PITTING helped save more than 15,000 people who were escaping Taliban rule, the regiment said.

Joining the British Army in September 2019, he served in Cyprus and Afghanistan.

Kieran Steven Heaney

The Royal Yorkshire Regiment said: “In adverse, austere, and demanding conditions he assisted thousands of Afghan Nationals in escaping to safe locations.

“This was testament to his discipline, courage, compassion, and maturity.”

The Commanding Officer of the Second Battalion, The Royal Yorkshire Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel M Wade-Smith said: “Private Heaney was dependable, the one you could trust to get the task done, without fuss or fanfare.

“Reliable and respected by his peers and seniors alike.

“Brave, resilient, disciplined, friendly, fun, and courageous. Private Heaney had already demonstrated all these qualities in the operational and sporting arenas. Selfless in his service, he will be missed by all members of the Battalion.”

In 2021, the Colonel of the Regiment, Brigadier ZR Stenning OBE, sent a note to The Yorkshire Regiment family.

“Could I ask that as you enjoy this Summer, you stop and think of those you know need reassurance or support, those you may not have heard from in a while – and that you contact them,” he wrote. “It will make a huge difference. We looked out for each other and our families on operations; so, we must continue to do this at home.”