Liam Tasker (Lance Corporal)
Died: 01/03/2011

Lance Corporal Tasker deployed to Afghanistan on 8 September 2010 as part of the 1st Military Working Dog Regiment. Having trained as an Arms and Explosives Search dog handler, he was attached to the 1st Battalion Irish Guards on 19 February 2011.

On 1 March 2011, Lance Corporal Tasker was taking part in a patrol with his dog, Theo, when they were engaged by small arms fire, during which Lance Corporal Tasker was struck and died from the injuries he sustained. Sadly, on returning to Camp Bastion, Theo suffered a seizure and died.

Lance Corporal Tasker was born on 11 December 1984 in Kirkcaldy, Fife, Scotland. He joined the Army in 2001 and was originally a vehicle mechanic in the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers. His passion though was always dogs which led to his transfer to the Royal Army Veterinary Corps (RAVC) in 2007.

A trainer who had a natural empathy with dogs, he was a rising star within the Dog Training Group. In 2010 he was posted to 104 Military Working Dog Squadron, St George’s Barracks, North Luffenham, Rutland, part of the 1st Military Working Dog Regiment.

From the onset of his operational tour in Afghanistan, he provided strong search and clearance capability for units across Helmand province. In a short period of time he had significant success locating improvised explosive devices, weapons and bomb-making equipment. His success undoubtedly saved many lives.

Lance Corporal Tasker was an outgoing, jovial and friendly character. He was extremely popular within his squadron. His easy-going, confident approach belied a consummate professional. He always strived to be the best, and within the squadron he was one of the best.

He can never be replaced and will always be remembered. He was a fun, friendly, talkative character who always wanted the best from his dog, his troops, and himself.

Lance Corporal Tasker’s family said:

There are three words that best describe Liam, larger than life. He lit up every room he walked into with his cheeky smile. He was the best son, grandson, brother and friend you could ever wish to meet. He died a hero doing a job he was immensely passionate about. We are so proud of him and everything he’s achieved. Words can’t describe how sorely he will be missed. Sleep well Liam, you are forever in our hearts.

Lieutenant Colonel David Thorpe, Commanding Officer, 1st Military Working Dog Regiment, said:

It is a challenge to put into words what Lance Corporal Liam Tasker meant to those he worked with. To his friends he was a mate who could put a smile on your face; he was that man who you wanted around and who you wanted to spend time with.

To the 1st Military Working Dog Regiment he was a strong, reliable soldier and an expert ‘Dog Man’. He genuinely loved the dogs he worked with and was always able to get the best out of them. He was one of the highly qualified dog trainers in Afghanistan and had spent time at our training establishment making sure that the new soldiers coming out of training had the best possible skills and experience imparted into them.

Epitomising the hardworking, determined and ambitious nature of our very best soldiers, he wanted to go to Afghanistan. He wanted to ply his trade in the harshest of environments, to be outside of his comfort zone, and he wanted to be successful. He was. The work he did in his five months in Afghanistan saved countless lives, of that I have no doubt. He flew the Royal Army Veterinary Corps’ flag high; he led from the front and made us proud.

Lance Corporal Tasker wanted to go far in the Army and he had all of the attributes needed to be a career soldier, with capacity to spare. His ability to command whilst maintaining his sense of humour had already marked him out as one to watch. His loss has hurt every single one of us today. He will be missed. He will not be forgotten.

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Karina & Stanley & Fox-@ The Dog
Semper Fidelis
Andrea Crossman
Thank you for your Service - Rest in peace together with your trusty dog.
Barry Bryan-Dixon
RIP Brother, stand down duty done above and beyond lest we forget
Jacqui Wallace
Thank you Liam and Theo

Tributes

Pat Nelson
16/10/2021
Such a tragedy, the bond between Liam and his dog was so strong. I salute two British heroes. May god bless you.
Iain Welby
16/10/2021
We will remember them.
John Parry
19/10/2021
They will not be forgotten, may they both rest in peace together
Anne Gillard
30/11/2021
I was so touched by Liam and Theo’s story, I cut the clip about their story out of my local paper in 2011 and have kept it in a safe place. We have so much to thank them for their contribution in the war effort. I’m sure they will never be forgotten.
Guardsman Geoff Travis
11/12/2021
Soldier's like Liam and Theo should never be forgotten, they gave their All and paid the ultimate sacrifice for this country and its security, I for one will never forget you both , R.I.P. Warrior and your Beloved Hero Theo . QUIS SEPARABIT
Nicholas Lloyd
11/12/2021
RIP soldier hope Theo is enjoying his walks with you
janet macdonald-jarrett
11/12/2021
Thank you both for your service. 2 heroes taken far too soon. xx
Sheila Muir
12/12/2021
Always remembered, never forgotten. Rest in peace - two great heroes.
Shonia morrison
14/12/2021
Theres no words to say that can b enough to thankyou for ur service and duty god bless u and you will not b forgotten rip
Chris Ward
29/06/2023
I was in Afghanistan with Liam and Theo. I woke up every morning rolled out of my pit to see Theo sitting there with his tongue out looking at me ready for a quick rub and pet. Liam was a great guy. Still remember hearing the news over the radio and my heart dropping. They both live on in my memories. Lives cut far too short, it reminds me to appreciate every day. God Bless
Stephen Watkinson
12/11/2023
God bless Liam and Theo truly heartbreaking god has you both by his side god bless
Jennifer alford
15/03/2024
Rest in Peace Liam and Theo. I hope your family finds peace and comfort during this difficult time.
Peter Latham
06/07/2024
God bless you both, together forever, proud members of our armed forces.