Parents of soldier killed serving country ‘overwhelmed’ by tribute

Steven Birdsall attended St Philip Westbrook Church of England Primary School when he was a child, before going on to attend Great Sankey High School.

When he turned 18, the keen sportsman joined the Royal Marines Commando and later joining 40 Commando Royal Marines.

In April 2010, Steven was deployed to Afghanistan with Bravo Company, which conducted numerous operations with the Afghan National Security Forces.

On June 13 2010, Bravo Company were providing security to Royal Engineers who were reinforcing the defences at a UK Check Point in Sangin, when the 20-year-old received a gunshot wound.

Steven died a day later after being transferred to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham.

Steven Birdsall died in June 2010 (Image: Supplied)

On Thursday, 14 years on, Steven was commemorated at his primary school as a plaque was unveiled in a garden on school grounds, where a bench was already dedicated to the former pupil.

“As this morning comes to an end, we are spending a little time together in this beautiful spot remembering out former pupil, Steven Birdsall, who tragically lost his life at the age of 20 serving his country in Afghanistan,” said Paul Stanley, head teacher.

“His decision to serve was a reflection of his character – strong, selfless and resilient.

“Steven’s kindness, humility and generous spirit touched the lives of many here at St Philip’s. Whether it was helping a fellow student, offering words of encouragement, or simply bringing a smile to someone’s face, Steven made a lasting impact on those who knew him.

“Though he may no longer be with us in person, his spirit and memory will forever remain in our hearts, and he will always be remembered here at St. Philip’s.”

Headmaster, Paul Stanley, making a speech at the tribute to Steven (Image: Supplied)

Attending the unveiling were Steven’s parents, Jennifer and Steven, who were ‘overwhelmed’ by the memorial for their son.

“Steven was quiet but with a great sense of humour,” said Jennifer.

“He was really kind, he just loved his family and his little sister, he gave us so much joy.

“It’s been 14 years, but [St Philip’s] never forgot him. I’m just overwhelmed that everyone made such an effort, and the garden is just so beautiful – it’s such a nice place to come and reflect.

“A huge thank you to the headmaster and all the teachers and students, as well as Stephen Pope. It’s just such a wonderful tribute to Steven.”

The plaque for Steven was donated by Stephen Pope, who served as a Captain in the Mercian Regiment.

He first became aware of the bench already dedicated to the former student after striking up a conversation with the school’s site manager when picking up his daughter from the school.

He felt a plaque featuring a QR code linked to the announcement of Steven’s death would allow visitors to learn more about him and his life.

The plaque dedicated to Steven (Image: Newsquest)

Stephen feels more tributes should be made for those who lost their lives serving in Afghanistan.

“We do a lot for D Day and there’s a lot of focus on that, and there was a lot of public focus on Afghanistan at the time,” he said.

“People still went there and had their lives changed. Time moves on and memories fade, but people should try and remember where possible.”

As part of the day, Royal Marine Rugby League team members attended the school to unveil their new kit, which has been sponsored by former player, Dave Coleman, and teach the Year 6 pupils rugby.

“The kids loved it,” said Neil Ledger, chairman of the Royal Marines Rugby League team.

“We found a few sports stars among them.”

Tomorrow, Saturday, the team will take on The Army as part of Armed Forces Day for the Birdsall Trophy, named in honour of Steven, at Crosfields Recreation Ground.

“People are coming back from deployment to play in the game,” said Sergeant Joe Long, coach of the Royal Marines’ team.

“As much as it’s a sad occasion, it’s also a huge event that people look forward to celebrating.”