This is an online tribute dedicated to the memory of Mark Smith. Sapper Mark Antony Smith, from 36 Engineer Regiment, serving with the Counter-IED Task Force, was tragically killed in Afghanistan on Monday, 26 July 2010.

On 26 July 2010 Sapper Mark Smith and his Search team deployed in support of 40 Commando Royal Marines Battlegroup, Combined Force Sangin.

Sapper Mark Smith was 26 years old and from Swanley, Kent. He enlisted into the Corps of Royal Engineers in June 2001 and, following training as a Combat Engineer and trade training as a Communications and Information Systems Operator, he was posted to 36 Engineer Regiment in December 2002.

He deployed to Iraq in 2003 and deployed on his first tour to Afghanistan in 2007. In April 2010 he volunteered for a second tour to Afghanistan on Operation HERRICK 12 having successfully completed the Royal Engineer Search Course.

Sapper Mark Smith was a member of the Joint Force Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group, part of the Counter-Improvised Explosive Device Task Force. His role was as a Searcher in a Royal Engineer Search Team.

A close friend has made the following statement on behalf of Antony's family:

"Mark Smith, fondly known by his friends as 'Smit' and Army colleagues as 'Smudge', was truly unique. His cheeky grin could light up a room and his zest for life was an inspiration to us all. His friendship and loyalty to those closest to him knew no bounds and I am truly honoured to have called him my friend.

"Smit will be greatly missed but it is difficult to think of him without smiling as he had a unique ability to lift anyone from the most sombre of moods and was always the life and soul of the party. He loved his Army life and his courage and bravery, all inspiring. Mark was a lovable rogue and the world will certainly be a sadder place without him."

This online memorial has been created to honour the life of Mark Smith who died whilst bravely doing his duty. He was a true hero and will never be forgotten. May he rest in peace.