Tom Sephton sadly passed away last monday after being caught in an explosion in Afgahnistan. Tom played Rugby for Crosfields working his way through the Junior Ranks, below John Griffin, team manager of Sephos team remembers him.
I first met Tom when he was a 13 year old lad trying to make his way on the rugby pitch. Tom was never going to be the biggest lad, so he made his game revolve around his natural pace. A county level sprinter, he could be seen burning down the wing with the ball tucked safely under his arm.
He was a key and influential part of the 2006 U 16’s squad that swept all before them winning the league championship and making the national cup semi-final, losing only 3 games that year. He was never one to shy away from a situation, and put his body on the line for the team. He tackled well above his weight, and had an ability that cannot be coached, in that he had “situational awareness”, usually making the right choice when the game got tough.
Tom would do anything asked of him by and for coaches and teammates, indeed was ready to do extras at any time.It was a privilege to be involved with such a man. Tom was a pleasure to be with on and off the pitch, a young man of honor with a rye sense of humor and a sharp wit, a man with a courage that belied his stature and loyalty beyond measure.
Tom gave his life to save his friend in battle. No greater sacrifice can be given by any man. No words will soften the blow to his family and friends or indeed his extended family at Crosfields ARLFC, he will be missed by all who knew him.
The following are tributes paid to Tom from members of his unit.
Pte Charles Emina, 1 MERCIAN, said:
“Sefo was my closest friend in the world; we were like brothers. He was always the life and soul wherever he went. He loved his friends and family more than anything. He was always first out of the gate on patrol and had pride doing his job for his Country. He saved the lives of his section on two occasions and on that tragic day he saved my life and gave his own.
“He is a true hero to his friends, family and his country and as a Nation we owe him a debt of gratitude. I love him with all my heart and I will be lost without him. All my love goes to him and his family while he rests in Peace.”
Warrant Officer Class 2 Paul Morley, Mortar Platoon Second in Command, on behalf of the Mortar Platoon, 1 MERCIAN, said:
“Tom Sephton joined the Mortar Platoon in January 2009. He immediately became part of the team and was very popular with everyone. He rose to the challenge of being a mortarman with glowing enthusiasm and a permanent smile. He was a true professional and dedicated to both his work and his friends.
“A keen sportsman, he represented his Company at rugby, subsequently playing a key role within Support Company’s trophy winning effort. At times he left a few Battalion rugby players a little red faced and more than surprised with his pace and skill.
“With his sparkling character he made socialising look easy and loved spending time with his friends ensuring a few ‘quiet’ drinks were never dull with Tom around.
“He was an excellent soldier and an even finer friend who met every challenge with vigour and a smile. He will be sadly missed but affectionately remembered by all that knew him. Rest in Peace.”
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