On Saturday 25th March 2023 members of the Stoke-on-Trent and North Staffordshire community attended the parade and service to commemorate Cpl Stephen Allbutt, 20 years after he was tragically killed in Iraq.
Corporal Stephen Allbutt was tragically killed in a ‘friendly fire’ incident when his Challenger 2 tank was hit by a shell fired by another British tank.
His brave wife Debi spoke about the hardship this traumatic event has left upon her; Debi remembered her husband as the lovely man he was sharing that “he was my best mate. He was funny but dead grumpy. I miss him all the time. You carry on with life but there are some days where it just hits you. Some days you start to cry and there’s no reason behind it. I don’t think you ever get over a loss- you just learn how to deal with it”
Debi has since been fighting for the justice of her late husband demanding compensation after claiming her husband and other soldiers were inadequately trained and not properly equipped on the battlefield, which Jonathan paid tribute to in the House of Commons the day before the memorial event. Jonathan also spoke of the memorial to commemorate twenty years since Stephen’s tragic death at age only 35 and highlighted his willingness to serve for his country.
Jonathan had the honour of meeting Stephen’s wife Debi on Monday at the memorial garden which Councillor Candi Chetwynd, which was secured out of her ward budget.
This Saturday was all about Stephen, and a time to remember that he lost his life fighting in service. The community were able to pay their respects to Stephen. His legacy will live on.
Having attended the service Jonathan said: “Despite all weather, a superb turnout to commemorate 20 years since the tragic passing of Stephen Allbutt in the Iraq war. Stephen's widow Debi, sons, grandchildren, and family were so brave, and I'm so honoured to have joined them in today's service at Norton Heights. A beautiful cherry tree and garden were all formally planted/opened, thanks to the efforts of Cllr Candi Chetwynd. Stephen gave his tomorrow, for our today. His sacrifice and bravery for King and country will be remembered forever.”