A COLCHESTER soldier who carried a wounded comrade to safety during a massive firefight in Afghanistan is to receive the Military Cross.

Acting Corporal Darragh Miskella, 24, from 3rd Battalion, the Parachute Regiment, has been revealed as the latest soldier from 16 Air Assault Brigade to be recognised for their feats of courage and leadership during a six month tour of Afghanistan.

During a battle with the Taleban in Helmand Province last November, his unit was evacuating 11 injured Afghan civilians while dealing with heavy and continuous fire from 10 different directions.

Positioning himself on an exposed rooftop, Acting Cpl Miskella, from Birmingham, played a crucial role in holding off the insurgents' attempts to attack the helicopter that was lifting the wounded Afghans to safety.

When the machine gunner next to him was shot in the hip, he moved out of his position of cover to pick up the injured soldier and carry him across the roof and down a ladder to a medic.

Acting Cpl Miskella's medal citation said: "Throughout a demanding day of continuous threat and moments of extreme danger, Miskella commanded his men with great courage and skill.

"His actions were impressive given his limited experience. That he also demonstrated enormous personal bravery in carrying one of his men to safety is extraordinary."

Acting Cpl Miskella was recognised at Wellington barracks and will be presented with his medal at a later date.

Also receiving the Military Cross will be Captain James Higginson of 3 Para, who led an attack on 15 Taleban fighters, and Corporal Jan Fourie, who rescued a fellow soldier who had been hit in the head.

Senior soldiers to be awarded include former brigade commander Brigadier James Chiswell MC, who will be appointed a CBE, and Acting Colone Andy Harrison MBE, who led 2 Para in Helmand, who will receive a Distinguished Service Order.