AN ARMY explosives expert from Didcot has been named Britain’s Most Outstanding Soldier.
Sergeant Major Karl Ley, of the Royal Logistic Corps, based at Vauxhall Barracks, was honoured at The Millie Awards 2010 on Wednesday night.
The father-of-three has so far defused 139 improvised explosive devices in Afghanistan.
In just 72 hours last November, he defused 28 IEDs and tackled 14 other bombs.
He received his award from I’m a Celebrity winner Stacey Solomon at the star-studded gala, attended by Prince Charles and the Duchess of Cornwall.
In September he was awarded the George Medal for his actions in Helmand Province. His award citation said: “Sergeant Major Ley has dealt with more IEDs than any other operator in history.
“The 72 hours last November typify the sheer determination, guile and awesome bravery of this man.
“During his six-month deployment Ley has been exposed to more than twice the number of IEDs than any one other High Threat IED Operator.
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