Cpl Andrew Rhodes, 26, from Rhyl, is normally found serving with the Royal Electrical and Mechanical Engineers.

Members of his regiment are part of the Basra-based Seventh Armoured Brigade, currently deployed on a six month tour of duty. They are hoping to return at the beginning of December.

A former pupil at Prestatyn High School, Cpl Rhodes joined the Army in 1998. In the past decade he has served in Iraq and numerous other countries.

His current tour of duty in Tallil means if residents see anything suspicious they call out his search team.

Cpl Rhodes’ role in the maintenance aspect of the Improvised Explosive Device Disposal team equipment is viewed as essential to the ongoing safety of residents and military personnel alike.

He said: “The best part of this job is putting in use the training which we receive and getting hands on with the kit. It’s rewarding to keep the disposal teams operating, ensuring their kit is all working properly.”

Cpl Rhodes is looking forward to returning home later this year and being reunited with his wife Natalie and children Courtney, five, Layton, two and baby Lewis, 13 weeks.