Corporal Bryan Budd VC

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Corporal Bryan Budd VC – A Paratrooper’s Ultimate Courage

Corporal Bryan Budd of the 3rd Battalion, The Parachute Regiment (3 PARA), was a highly respected British soldier who showed extraordinary bravery during combat in Afghanistan. Born in Belfast in 1977, Bryan joined the Army in 1995 and quickly earned a reputation as a dedicated and courageous paratrooper. He served in some of the toughest environments, including Northern Ireland, Sierra Leone, Iraq, and Afghanistan.

In 2006, while deployed to Helmand Province during a particularly intense period of the conflict, Bryan led his section in a fierce firefight with Taliban forces near Sangin. On 20 August, under heavy enemy fire and with his men pinned down, he charged forward alone to take on the enemy, allowing his section to retreat to safety. His actions saved lives but tragically cost him his own. He had performed a similarly heroic act just weeks earlier.

For his incredible bravery and selflessness, Bryan was posthumously awarded the Victoria Cross, the UK’s highest award for gallantry. His courage, leadership, and sacrifice remain an inspiration to all who serve.

He is remembered with deep respect by his regiment, his family, and the nation.