Soldier dies after physical training session

Pte Harry Johnson had "enormous potential as a soldier", according to the MoD

A 19-year-old soldier has died following a physical training session at a barracks in North Yorkshire, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has confirmed.

Pte Harry Johnson, of the 2nd Infantry Training Battalion, died after the session at Vimy Barracks in Catterick on 24 July, just three months after he had joined up.

The MoD said in a statement Pte Johnson, who was "genuine, kind and funny", had joined the Army on 13 April and had "already proved himself to have enormous potential as a soldier".

Officials said they confirmed his death "with immense sadness" and added that their thoughts were with his family and friends.

The death of Pte Johnson, who was from Doncaster, South Yorkshire, has been referred to the coroner, North Yorkshire and York Coroner's Service confirmed.

The MoD said: "Although he only joined the Army recently, Pte Johnson exemplified the values and standards of the British Army and applied them in everything he did.

"He was one of the hardest working members of the platoon; reliable and disciplined.

"He served much of his time within 3 Platoon, B Company in the 1st Infantry Training Battalion and completed basic training on 11 Jul 2025.

"He was awarded Best Shot within 3 Platoon at his Pass Off Parade, an achievement he was extremely proud to win. Shortly afterwards, Pte Johnson started his Infantry Initial Trade Training with Bruneval Platoon."

'Loyalty and humour'

The MoD added he had "high standards of physical fitness" and always had "a smile on his face and a genuine love for the job".

They added: "The loss of Pte Johnson is a tragic blow to all those who worked with him, the Parachute Regiment and most importantly his family.

"To lose someone so young with so much potential is extremely hard to take, and those closest to him are distraught.

"He will be remembered fondly by all who knew him and were touched by his loyalty, humour, and selflessness."

Lt Col Ben Jesty, Commanding Officer, 2nd Infantry Training Battalion, said they were "heartbroken by the loss of Pte Harry Johnson from the Infantry family".

"A proud and passionate future paratrooper, he represented the best of his generation.

"Although early in his career he had already shown significant potential," he said.

Lt Toby Staker, Bruneval Platoon Commander, Parachute Regiment Training Company, added: "Despite my relationship with Pte Johnson being only brief, it was clear to see that he fully understood the journey that he was on.

"He carried himself with pride, humility, and steadfast confidence well beyond his years."

Pte Noah Merriman, of Bruneval Platoon, said he had first met Pte Johnson during Phase I Training and had been struck by his "politeness and caring nature".

"He was always willing to help others and brought a positive energy to the group. Harry had a good sense of humour and could always make us smile with his easy-going attitude.

"I remember him often talking to his girlfriend in the evenings with his headphones in, which became a familiar and endearing sight."

He said Pte Johnson had been a "genuine, friendly and dependable person".

Listen to highlights from North Yorkshire on BBC Sounds, catch up with the latest episode of Look North.