From the Ministry of Defence:
It is with immense sadness we confirm the death of Private (Pte) Harry Johnson of the 2nd Infantry Training Battalion on 24th July 2025.
He died following a physical training session at Vimy Barracks, Catterick. He was 19 years old. Our thoughts are with Pte Johnson’s family and friends at this sad time.
Private Harry Johnson
Private Harry Johnson was a member of Bruneval Platoon, Parachute Regiment Training Company within 2nd Infantry Training Battalion. He joined the Army on 13th April 2025 and had already proved himself to have enormous potential as a soldier.
He served much of his time within 3 Platoon, B Company in the 1st Infantry Training Battalion and completed Basic Training on 11th Jul 2025. He was awarded Best Shot within 3 Platoon at his Pass Off Parade, an achievement he was extremely proud to win. Shortly afterwards, Pte Johnson started his Infantry Initial Trade Training with Bruneval Platoon.
Although he only joined the Army recently, Pte Johnson exemplified the values and standards of the British Army and applied them in everything he did. He was one of the hardest working members of the platoon; reliable and disciplined.
In 13 weeks, the only fault his training team could find was one day spotting some loose threads on his uniform. Pte Johnson’s determination and selflessness were highlighted on field training exercises, being the first to volunteer to help those around him and making them laugh with his reaction to the thought of wet and dry drills.
Despite not being the biggest soldier, his high standards of physical fitness, coupled with his determination and courage, meant he often punched above his weight, consistently performing at the top of the platoon.
Pte Johnson’s pursuit of excellence was admirable. The Basic Training standard was never enough for him; he was always striving to be better, continually wanting to learn and improve. As Basic Training went on, he set the standards for those around him as he grew in confidence. Members of the platoon looked to him for guidance and support, which he willingly gave. He did all this with a smile on his face and a genuine love for the job.
His outstanding work ethic and professionalism as a soldier is only a part of what defined him. During his time in 3 Platoon, he fostered the unique friendship and brotherhood with those around him in a way only the Armed Forces can.
Pte Johnson’s closest friends in the platoon will cherish the memories they have made with him on their shared journey. They affectionately recall his evident love for his family and girlfriend, with whom he spoke regularly. He was genuine, kind, and funny and made the lives of others better.
The loss of Pte Johnson is a tragic blow to all those who worked with him, the Parachute Regiment and most importantly his family. To lose someone so young with so much potential is extremely hard to take, and those closest to him are distraught. He will be remembered fondly by all who knew him and were touched by his loyalty, humour, and selflessness.
Lieutenant Colonel Ben Jesty, Commanding Officer, 2nd Infantry Training Battalion
We are heartbroken by the loss of Pte Harry Johnson from the Infantry family. A proud and passionate future Paratrooper he represented the best of his generation. Although early in his career he had already shown significant potential.
Tipped to be a future P Company Champion, he was the kind of young soldier that the country needs: fit, determined, disciplined and selfless. Vitally, he had the sense of humour to laugh at the eccentricities of Army life. He was a credit to his friends and family to whom we offer our most heartfelt condolences at this awful time.
Lieutenant Toby Staker, Bruneval Platoon Commander, Parachute Regiment Training Company
Despite my relationship with Pte Johnson being only brief, it was clear to see that he fully understood the journey that he was on. He carried himself with pride, humility, and steadfast confidence well beyond his years.
His fellow recruits remember him with a warm smile as they reflect on his humour and loyalty. He cared deeply about our shared purpose; he would be the first to offer to share even if he had the least to give. A true soldier, his passing is a huge loss to all those who knew him; his family and friends, his platoon, the Airborne brotherhood that he longed to join, and the Army as a whole.
Sergeant Foreman – Platoon Sergeant
Pte Johnson made a choice that not everyone makes — to step forward, to serve, and to be part of something greater than himself. That choice, to join the British Army was a statement of his character in itself- he stood up to be counted.
Pte Johnson was becoming one of Britain’s finest. His quiet resilience, determination, and the grit required to even begin that journey are not ordinary. They are qualities found in the best of us.
Those who trained beside him will remember his loyalty and integrity. Whether it was helping a mate through a tough exercise, or simply sharing a laugh, Pte Johnson made an impact. He was becoming the soldier his country needed, and he gave everything in that pursuit.
Corporal Walker – Section Commander in Basic Training
Pte Johnson was a stellar recruit who understood exactly what it meant to be a soldier. He was an individual in the platoon who grew in confidence daily and set the highest of standards, lifting those around him. Pte Johnson was a proud Yorkshireman with a strong sense of humour who would always help improve morale.
I am proud to have played a small part in his life throughout his basic training and watched him develop into an extremely competent soldier. His name will live on forever more. My thoughts and prayers are with his friends and family.
Private Sam Birbeck, Bruneval Platoon
I met Harry during our Parachute Regiment Development Visit training, and even from our first encounter, I was struck by his quiet yet engaging personality. Although he initially seemed reserved, I immediately liked him, especially because he had a great sense of humour that made me laugh.
I also noticed his keen interest in shooting which he clearly enjoyed, Harry’s dedication was good, although he had a habit of being late back from weekend leave, which always made me smile. Beyond his training, it’s clear that Harry values his family and girlfriend deeply, often spending as much time as possible with them. Overall, Harry was a genuine, talented, and caring individual who made a positive impression on those around him.
Private Noah Merriman, Bruneval Platoon
I first met Harry Johnson during Phase 1 Training and, from the start, I was struck by his politeness and caring nature. He was always willing to help others and brought a positive energy to the group. Harry had a good sense of humour and could always make us smile with his easy-going attitude.
I remember him often talking to his girlfriend in the evenings with his headphones in, which became a familiar and endearing sight. He was also very skilled at shooting and earned his marksmanship badge during phase 1. Harry was a genuine, friendly, and dependable person who left an impression on everyone.
Private Cayden Dalgity, Bruneval Platoon
I met Harry during the Parachute Regiment Development Visit and, at first, he seemed shy, but once we got to know each other everything changed, and we became good friends. I remember going on exercise with Harry during Phase 1, especially the wet and dry drills.
I’ll never forget the look on his face at the thought of getting wet — it made me laugh every time. Harry was a good guy who was always willing to help others; he was someone you could rely on. He often talked about his family and his little sister, and he was always on the phone with his girlfriend, Abira. Harry’s kindness, humour, and genuine nature will be missed.
