His commanding officer, Lieutenant Colonel Charlie Calder, said: “Fus Annis was a larger than life character, a dedicated soldier. He was at the heart of whatever was going on.
“It was no surprise to me that he died trying to save his wounded section commander.
“He should be seen as a shining example of what selfless commitment really means.”
Fus Annis’s colleagues recalled the soldier’s constant smile and tendency to burst into song.
His company commander, Major Jo Butterfill, said: “He had an incredible capacity for shouldering more than his fair share of any task which made him immensely popular across the ranks.”
Lt Alan Williamson said: “The man was a delight, but he was no joker when the chips were down.
“He was fiercely competent and bragged he was the battalion’s best gunner – a statement not far from the truth.
“He had a big heart and a bright future. I’ll miss his quirky sense of humour, mischievous ways and appalling singing.”
Fus Jay Connolly said: “He often talked about ‘Caz’. He loved her with all his heart.”
