Britain’s Ministry of Defence confirmed the death of a soldier, Guardsman Mathew Talbot, during counter poaching operations in Malawi on May 5.
British media reported that Talbot was killed by an elephant while on patrol in Liwonde National Park near Malawi’s border with Mozambique.
Talbot, who had been serving with The 1st Battalion Coldstream Guards based in Windsor, died while on his first operational deployment.
Defence Secretary Penny Mordaunt mourned the death of Talbot, whom she said served with great courage and professionalism.
“This tragic incident is a reminder of the danger our military faces as they protect some of the world’s most endangered species from those who seek to profit from the criminal slaughter of wildlife,” Mordaunt said.
Talbot’s Commanding Officer Lt. Col Ed Launders described him as a determined and big-hearted individual who devoted his life to serving his country.
