THE commanding officer of the Army’s Didcot-based bomb disposal experts has thanked residents for their “unwavering” support.

Lieutenant Colonel Gareth Bex, who commanded the counter-IED task force during a seven-month tour in Afghanistan, has written to the Oxford Mail to express his personal thanks for the turnout at the unit’s homecoming parade earlier this month.

About 3,000 people lined the streets to cheer the troops from the task force, who defused more than 1,000 roadside bombs and other improvised explosive devices planted by Taliban fighters.

He said: “The town of Didcot and the home of 11 EOD Regiment Royal Logistic Corps, came to a standstill as it honoured the return of officers and soldiers from the counter-IED task force after a gruelling seven months in Helmand.

“As the commanding officer of the task force I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the people of Didcot for their kindness.

“Your support has been unwavering throughout our tour of duty and the parade was the culmination of an incredible seven months that has seen the counter-IED task force establish itself as a mainstay of operations in Afghanistan.”

He added: “The sterling reputation we have earned and the achievements we have made have come at a heavy price.

“Since our formation in September we have lost Corporal James Oakland, Staff Sergeant ‘Oz’ Schmid, Corporal Loren Marlton-Thomas, Sapper David Watson, Captain Daniel Read, Warrant Officer Dave Markland and Sapper Guy Mellors.

“All seven were wonderful, professional and committed men, of whom we are incredibly proud.

“Not a day passes when we do not think of them or of their families, as we do of our wounded and their families.”

Family members of both the dead and wounded attended the parade and ceremony last Friday, April 16, including the father and step-mother of 31-year-old Capt Read, who was killed in an explosion on January 11.

His father Les Read, 60, said: “I just want to say a big thank-you to the people of Didcot for their appreciation. You could see it on the soldiers’ faces – they were so proud on the day, and proud of serving their country. It was so uplifting.

“When I spoke to the lads afterwards that knew my son, they said it had been absolutely brilliant.

“They had never expected so many people.”

Lt Col Bex added: “The counter-IED battle is a huge challenge but we remain highly motivated by knowing that what we do saves lives, enables and improves the lives of the impoverished people of Afghanistan.

“The recognition of our achievements by the people of Didcot and amazing display of public affection means an awful lot to my men and women.

“We are all deeply moved and grateful for the public’s kindness.”