Black Country Royal Marine Commando killed in Scotland crash

Tributes have since flooded in for Marine Andrew Dawes, who has been described as 'caring' and 'courageous' by his family.

Marine Dawes, from Darlaston, was driving a military vehicle on the A9 near Aviemore when it crashed with several vehicles on June 22. The 23-year-old, believed to be a former pupil of St Thomas More Catholic School, had been part of a convoy travelling to Inverness.

Marine Dawes, who joined the Royal Marines in April 2012, died at the scene despite efforts by his fellow marines to save him. He had been serving with 43 Commando Fleet Protection Group, based at the Royal Navy's Faslane base on the River Clyde. After completing his Royal Marines Commando training, he joined his first commando unit in January 2013 specialising in the protection of UK's nuclear deterrent.

A year later he was employed on maritime interdiction operations around the globe and four months ago he joined the motor transport troop as general duties driver. Tributes have been paid by his family who have described him as a 'caring' and 'fun loving person'.

In a statement, released by the Royal Navy, they said: "Andrew was a son, brother, grandson, cousin and friend to so many. Andrew was a genuine caring and fun loving person who touched so many when he met them. His drive and focus for life was positive and infectious; he was and always will be a role model to many.

"As his family we are immensely proud of Andrew and what he has achieved, he thoroughly enjoyed every aspect of his life.

"Unfortunately he was taken from us to early, but he will never be forgotten. Always in our hearts and minds."

Commanding officer, Colonel Matt Pierson said he was a bright, dedicated and courageous young man who had a naturally cheerful outlook on life.

He added: "He was committed to the Royal Marines Corps which he loved and he applied himself with enthusiasm to every aspect of military life, from marksmanship to sport and all in between."