Sniffer dog soldier killed a day after he postponed his leave

Lance Corporal Kenneth Rowe lobbied to continue working in Sangin, Helmand Province, because he feared a lack of dog handlers would put his fellow soldiers at risk from roadside bombs.

But the dedicated soldier - described as a rising star - was killed alongside his Labrador Sasha last Thursday after he was ambushed by the Taliban.

Rising star: Dog Handler Lance Corporal Rowe and dog Sasha

The 24-year-old, from the Royal Army Veterinary Corps, is believed to have been granted leave to return to his family home in Newcastle for his uncle's wedding next month, but decided to stay when he was not replaced.

Yesterday, as their son's body was flown home, his parents Kenneth and Lynn, and his two sisters, were being comforted by relatives at their home in Gosforth.

At the same time, a row broke out after Conservative defence spokesman Liam Fox accused the Government of being 'very happy to send our soldiers to war, but not so happy to provide them with the means to carry out their mission successfully'.

Lance Corporal Rowe was killed during an operation to support members of the Parachute Regiment who were conducting search operations for Taliban members.

As an Ammunition and Explosives Search (AES) dog handler, he was responsible for patrolling areas to identify stocks of weapons, ammunition and explosives.

Company commander Major Stuart McDonald paid tribute to him last night, saying: 'This was the third operation in which I had the pleasure to work with Lance Corporal Rowe, and as always, his humour, energy, and good banter all made the job that little bit more bearable.

'He was actually scheduled to leave on July 23, but was concerned about the lack of AES cover if he went, and lobbied to be allowed to stay.

'This unselfish action epitomised his professionalism and dedication to his job. I feel lucky to have known him and gutted to have to say goodbye. He will be sorely missed by everyone.'

The Ministry of Defence last night refused to say how long the gap would have been between Lance Corporal Rowe's departure and his successor's arrival.

Colleague Major Chris Ham said: 'He died supporting his colleagues in a situation that required composure and professionalism in handling his dog while facing a substantial threat from the enemy.

'He will be remembered as a man with a genuine passion for his work and he was a true professional with an infectious enthusiasm.'

Defence Secretary Des Browne said: 'My thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.'