Rest easy dear friend

James AKA 'Tomo'. Rest easy dear friend. 1981-2008.

Yesterday I went to James' funeral. There are no words to truly express how much we miss him and the huge impact he had on so many of us.

I took this portrait shortly before he left the UK for his first tour of duty. I believe it captures his mischievous spirit and sense of fun. As the pastor said yesterday at his funeral service, "He lit up the room with his smile." But the impact he had was so much more. He was a force of life and wherever he went he left people feeling more cheerful and optimistic.

He had a serious side too. Professional, dedicated and calm, he was the kind of guy you knew you could count on without question.

Here is the official press release and you can read the earlier news releases in my previous blog.

I know my blog is about photography but I had to write something more personal because I feel it so badly. And in a way this article is about photography too because the pictures we have of James are now tremendously important. They are tangible memories we will treasure. He will be remembered and talked about, and children not yet born will gaze at pictures of this special man, while they listen to stories of his adventures and exploits.

Take care of yourself and each other.

Cheers,

Paul

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