Service Funerals for the 2 RAF Officers killed in Lynx Crash in Iraq

27 Jun 2006 02:15 PM

The Service funerals of two RAF personnel tragically killed in a Lynx helicopter crash in Iraq on Saturday 6 May 2006 will take place today and tomorrow.

The family, friends and colleagues of Flight Lieutenant Sarah Mulvihill today attended a full Service funeral at Canterbury Cathedral to celebrate her life. Tomorrow, the family and friends of Wing Commander John Coxen will attend his Service funeral at Dorchester Abbey in Oxfordshire. Both individuals were repatriated to the UK along with their colleagues from the Royal Navy and the British Army on Thursday 18 May 2006.

Group Captain Duncan Welham, Station Commander of Royal Air Force Benson where both were based, said:

"Even though it has been some weeks since the tragic crash of the Lynx helicopter in Iraq, Benson's sense of loss remains very raw. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the families and loved ones of Wing Commander John Coxen and Flight Lieutenant Sarah Mulvihill as they start to face life without them.

"Without a doubt John and Sarah were two of the Royal Air Force's finest - courageous, fun loving and totally dedicated to the service of their country. We continue to miss them and mourn their deaths, but we are resolved to never let them be forgotten."

This sentiment was reiterated by Commodore Tony Johnstone-Burt, Deputy Commander of the Joint Helicopter Command, who said:

"They were all exceptional individuals who have left a lasting legacy with all those fortunate enough to have known them. I am confident that their sacrifice in the line of duty has stiffened the resolve of all those on operations, regardless of their rank or rate, and made them even more determined to live up to their memory and finish the job that they have started. They will not be forgotten."

Notes to Editors

1. The names of those who were killed in the Lynx Crash are:

Wing Commander John Coxen RAF
Lieutenant Commander Darren Chapman RN
Flight Lieutenant Sarah Mulvihill RAF
Captain David Dobson AAC
Marine Paul Collins

2. The bodies were repatriated to the UK on 18 May 2006. Details of the funerals of the other members of the helicopter crew will be released separately but all will be held this week.

3. A Board of Inquiry is underway to determine the exact cause of the crash.