Tributes have been paid to the “legendary and outstanding” Hounslow soldier shot dead in Afghanistan on Friday.

Fijian Petero “Pat” Suesue, 28, a member of 2nd Battalion The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers who lived in Hounslow, was killed while on foot patrol near the town of Sangin, in Helmand Province on Friday.

His wife Emalaini and family paid tribute to him with a statement that read: "Petero epitomised the qualities of the Fijian fusilier.He was strong yet gentle, compassionate and always willing to support those around him.

"His ability to include everyone is indicative of his friendly nature and there will be a large hole left in the community with his passing. He leaves behind a loving wife, Emalaini, his mother, Sisilia, his sister Litiana and three brothers, Taito, Varasiko and Jovesa.

"It is with great sadness that Petero will no longer be with us in body, however, he leaves behind a legacy of love and affection in the memories of all who knew and loved him."

Fusilier Suesue, who was born in Fiji and joined the Army six years ago, was a keen rugby player who represented the battalion and toured with the infantry rugby team for their South Africa tour in 2004.

Colleagues stepped forward to express their shock as Fusilier Suesue’s became the 160th British soldier to die in Afghanistan since 2001.

Lieutenant Colonel Rob Thomson, Commanding Officer, 2nd Rifles Battle Group, said: "The loss of Fusilier Suesue is sorely felt across the battle group.

"He was a legendary soldier, awesomely tough and full of character and Pacific Island charm. His beloved wife, family and friends are front and centre of our thoughts and prayers at this unimaginably difficult time."

Colour Sergeant John McCowliffe said:"I have known Fusilier Suesue for many years, and worked closely with him during a previous operational tour in Iraq.

"He was an outstanding, professional soldier who had a thorough understanding of his role in my platoon. He was an asset, a very skilled Javelin operator, and carried out every job he was asked to do diligently and without hesitation. It feels like we have lost a true friend and we're thinking of his family."

Close friend Lance Corporal Vilikesa 'Kia' Tubuitamana said: "Fusilier 'Pat' Suesue was a funny bloke, always joking, particularly about my dancing moves. He was good on a night out and an excellent rugby player.

"He would always host all of the Fijians at his house, inviting us round to drink Kana. He never wanted anyone to go, always saying 'the night is still young'.

"When he got married, he invited all of the single Fijian guys round to his house. Pat was always willing to go out of his way to help out the single Fijians with no family in the UK."

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