The regimental family is sad to announce the passing of Private Kieran Steven Heaney. He joined the @britisharmy in September 2019, serving with Alma Company, Second Battalion in Cyprus providing force protection to the Sovereign Base Area strategic sites. In August 2021 Pte Heaney deployed with Alma Company to Kabul, Afghanistan on Operation PITTING. As an 18-year-old he was one of the youngest soldiers deployed. In adverse, austere, and demanding conditions he assisted thousands of Afghan Nationals in escaping to safe locations. This was testament to his discipline, courage, compassion, and maturity.
He was known for his bravery, positivity, and courage in and out of the boxing ring. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and colleagues.
Commanding Officer Second Battalion The Royal Yorkshire Regiment, Lt Col M Wade-Smith on Private Heaney – “Private Heaney was dependable, the one you could trust to get the task done, without fuss or fanfare. Reliable and respected by his peers and seniors alike. Brave, resilient, disciplined, friendly, fun, and courageous. Private Heaney had already demonstrated all these qualities in the operational and sporting arenas. Selfless in his service he will be missed by all members of the Battalion.”
