Remembering a fallen hero

Nov 1 2007 by Linda Elias, Cynon Valley Leader

THE life of a Cynon Valley soldier hero has been remembered at a special war memorial service.

Dedicated Corporal Paul Joszko, of Abercynon, was killed by a roadside bomb in Iraq, aged 28, in June while serving with the 2nd Battalion the Royal Welsh.

He was buried with full military honours at Abercynon Cemetery.

On Sunday, his family and friends, civic leaders, representatives of the regiment and the Royal British Legion, gathered at Abercynon’s clock memorial to honour his memory.

The ceremony saw the unveiling and dedication of a plaque commemorating Cpl Joszko’s life, and a service of remembrance

A poignant sight for those attending was the presence of his one-year-old son, Dylan, with his mum, Kayleigh, Cpl Joszko’s partner, who is expecting their second child next month.

Cpl Joszko, described by commanding officers as “one of the best of his generation”, who inspired confidence and was deeply respected throughout his company, grew up in a close-knit family with parents, David and Linda, and older sister, Maria.

Linda Joszko said: “It was a fitting tribute to Paul.

“All his family and friends are so proud of him, proud to have known him.

“We are proud to be his parents.

“But I don’t think we will ever come to terms with Paul’s death.”

The plaque was unveiled by Cpl Joszko’s sister, Maria, and Rhondda Cynon Taf Mayor, Jane Ward, of Penrhiwceiber.

The gathering of more than 150 heard Rev Pauline Williams, who conducted the service, speak of Cpl Joszko as a young man who gave his all.

Retired Major Mike Hooley, who had broken the tragic news of the dedicated soldier’s death to the family, gave a reading.

Among the poppy wreaths were those from Cpl Joszko’s father, David, on behalf of the family, and Christine Chapman AM, on behalf of the Welsh Assembly.